Top 10 things to do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

Fancy a trip to the Vendée? Treat yourself to a coastal getaway and discover the top 10 things to do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie. Located less than 10 minutes from Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez and 20 minutes from Bretignolles-sur-Mer, this seaside resort is a little slice of paradise for lovers of the sea and nature. Whether you're traveling alone, with family, or with friends, head to Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie soon; the Vendée guide has prepared the top 10 things to do all year round.

Try your hand at sand yachting on the Grande Plage

Settle comfortably into your vehicle and let the wind take over ! Suitable for all ages, this outdoor activity offers the chance to experience the unique sensations of speed and adrenaline at a renowned spot in the Vendée region. Watch out for getting stuck!

Relaxing on the beach after a walk

The promenade along the Grande Plage is ideal for a refreshing seaside outing, while the fishing and pleasure port is a colorful sight with trawlers unloading their daily catch of sardines, sea bass, and sea bream. Prefer a swim? Head to the Grande Plage (be aware that at high tide, only the end of the promenade is exposed) or to the small Boisvinet beach, which has a diving board accessible at high tide.

Visit the last working windmill in the Pays de Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

Dating back to 1842, the Moulin des Gourmands (Gourmet Mill) offers a glimpse into the secrets of the millers who still produce wheat and buckwheat flour. From wheat to flour, each step of the process is explained, making for a rich and fascinating visit that will leave you wanting to dig your hands into the fine white powder. Don't leave without stopping by the bakery to sample the delicious products made on-site.

Shore fishing in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

Shells, seaweed, crustaceans… Put on your boots and fish for the treasures of the sea any time of year. In Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, the Grande Plage is renowned for its bountiful harvests, especially for catching clams in the sand. Grab your buckets and nets!

Visit Fishing Stopover

The sea fishing discovery center located on the port invites you to discover the different fish species caught and the various fishing techniques through a fascinating visit. The life of a sailor is explored, as is the workings of a fish market. With cooking classes, ropework workshops, and even a treasure hunt for children, you won't be bored!

Discover the Sardine Workshop

Stay immersed in the briny world of fish during this visit, which retraces the history and artisanal know-how of the last remaining cannery in the Vendée region. Experience a complete journey into the world of sardines by watching a documentary before enjoying a tasting of appetizers on the terrace. In summer, concerts and fish-fishing demonstrations are also organized. Don't forget to stop by the shop to find your favorite products, featuring sardines, of course!

Shopping in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

Fancy a day of window shopping ? Stroll along the Grande Rue and discover fashion boutiques, artisan workshops, and home decor shops to bring back the most beautiful souvenirs of your Vendée getaway. A few gourmet shops offer the chance to sample "Sablés de Saint-Gilles" (Saint-Gilles shortbread) or canned sardines.

Cycling along the circuit around Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

While the Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie region boasts numerous marked trails perfect for leisurely walks, a dedicated route circles the seaside resort, taking in its top attractions. Cycling along the Vendée coastline, exploring the Boisvinet district, the fishing port, the Grande Plage beach, and the Jaunay river promises a delightful ride along a nearly 22 km route.

Traveling through the markets

Two markets offer a delightful selection of fresh produce throughout the year:

• Croix-de-Vie side, on the Guy Kergoustin square on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
• On the Saint-Gilles side, in the Place du Marché aux Herbes and the Vieux Port, on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday mornings.

Come and meet local producers and artisans, and don't forget your basket!

Enjoy a sunset aperitif at the end of the day

Walk along the seafront promenade to find the perfect spot. Between bars and restaurants, there are plenty of places to admire the sunset with your feet in the sand or overlooking the sea, glass in hand. Don't forget your camera to capture this special moment!

The top 10 things to do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie are finished, all you have to do is pick from the list to enjoy the Vendée all year round!

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