Top 10 must-sees in Noirmoutier

A visit to Noirmoutier Island is a must when escaping to the Vendée region. Comprising four towns — L'Épine, Barbâtre, La Guérinière, and Noirmoutier-en-l'Île —it offers incredible scenery, from forests to sandy beaches. Whether on foot, by bike, with friends, or with family, Noirmoutier is an ideal destination in the Vendée. Discover the top 10 must-sees in the Vendée.

The best things to do in Noirmoutier

1. Crossing the Passage du Gois in Vendée

To reach Noirmoutier Island, you have two options. The simplest is to cross the Noirmoutier bridge to Barbâtre and follow the coast. The second option, less frequently used and dependent on the tides, is the Passage du Gois, a legendary and surprising causeway between Noirmoutier Island and the mainland. Completely submerged, it can only be crossed at low tide, depending on the tidal coefficients, and offers a route of over 4 km on cobblestones. An unusual spot in the Vendée region, it's an ideal place for shellfish gathering and the starting point for the Foulées du Gois, a footrace held annually.

2. Visit Butterfly Island on the island

You can't miss it: the Butterfly Island of Noirmoutier is the largest butterfly greenhouse in France. Experience an unforgettable day surrounded by colorful insects that roam freely in a 26°C greenhouse. From Guyana, Kenya, Madagascar, and Costa Rica, nearly 2,000 species from all corners of the world flutter and surround you with the tiny beating of their wings. The setting created to house these butterflies is magnificent, featuring a variety of flowers and plants. Whether with family or friends, the memories of Butterfly Island will be unforgettable.

3. Visit Noirmoutier Castle

A must-see during your visit is the Château de Noirmoutier, a 12th-century fortress. Built by the Lords of La Garnache, it tells the story of the island, particularly its proximity to the Church of Saint-Philbert, both of which played a role in the Vendée War. Open to the public year-round, it houses collections that recount this historical past, such as the painting "The Death of General d'Elbée" by Julien Le Blant. Don't hesitate to climb the castle's keep, which offers a breathtaking view of Noirmoutier Island.

4. Discover the salt marshes of Noirmoutier

Originating in the Middle Ages and created by farmers to preserve food, generate trade, and supply their kitchens, the salt marshes are a must-see in Noirmoutier. Covering up to a third of the island, the 3,000 salt pans produce a salt renowned for its quality, ranging from coarse salt to fine salt and fleur de sel. Discover the salt worker's craft for a day, an ancestral skill passionately explained by the harvesters of what is known as "white gold." Even without visiting them, you can't miss the unique landscape of the salt marshes and tidal channels as you explore Noirmoutier.

5. Swimming on the beaches of Noirmoutier

Noirmoutier Island offers the chance to enjoy charming little coves like Anse Rouge, or to lay your towel on Plage des Dames, the most famous beach with its many wooden huts and picture-postcard setting. Ideal for families, Plage des Sableaux is supervised during the summer months, with the children's club setting up between July and August to entertain the little ones. From Plage des Souzeaux to Plage de la Clère, there are numerous swimming spots, not to mention the beaches of Vieil, Guérinière, Herbaudière, and Barbâtre. And yes, that's the advantage of being on an island.

6. Explore the town of Noirmoutier

Cross the bridge and head to the island's center to begin your excursion along the pedestrian street. Quiet and lined with numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, it comes alive throughout the summer with vacationers settling in along the harbor to enjoy a drink on a terrace. On foot or by bike, continue your stroll along the Jacobsen walkway, a path that leads you to the Bois de la Chaise forest and its jetty, ideal for net fishing. Don't miss the traditional market in Place de la République, where Local produce and artisans compete for the favor of visitors and Noirmoutier residents.

7. Take a ride on the little train around the island

Here's an original way to discover the island of Noirmoutier. Aboard the Noirmout'train, enjoy a pleasant, narrated ride punctuated with stories and anecdotes on a variety of routes to suit your preferences. Choose from a discovery tour, a tour of old villages, a salt marsh tour, or a 2-hour tour. Depart from the north of the island, passing through the Bois de la Chaise and Port Morin in L'Épine, before discovering the port of L'Herbaudière and returning to the Place d'Armes in the center of Noirmoutier.

8. Exploring the Bois de la Chaise in Noirmoutier

What a wonderful place the Bois de la Chaise is in the north of Noirmoutier Island ! With its Mediterranean vegetation, numerous secluded coves, and maritime pine forest, it's one of Noirmoutier's top destinations for those who love escaping into nature. Spanning 110 hectares, it's perfect for hiking or cycling, and offers an incredible landscape formed by a succession of cliffs, rocky headlands, and fine sandy coves.

9. Take the Jacobsen jetty at the port of Noirmoutier

The Jacobsen family left an indelible mark on the island of Noirmoutier. From a simple salt trade, a town grew that is now the pride of the Vendée region, where you can stroll along a path named after those who shaped it. The Jacobsen jetty stretches for 1,500 meters along the port of Noirmoutier before leading to the Müllenbourg marsh and Fort Larron beach. Continue towards Sableaux beach and the Bois de la Chaise forest to complete a 7 km loop. Easy and pleasant, the walk is suitable for all ages, perfect for a relaxing time with family or friends.

10. Take a stroll around the port of L'Herbaudière

Located at the northernmost tip of Noirmoutier Island, L'Herbaudière is known for its fishing and pleasure port. You can stroll along the quays and relax on the terrace of a bar or restaurant, soaking up the sun and enjoying the pleasant view of the moored boats. Those who enjoy swimming can head to the large beaches of La Linière or Luzeronde to splash in the waves, build sandcastles, or fly kites. Don't miss the festivals held throughout the summer in L'Herbaudière. With jazz, electronic music, and street performances, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

The island of Noirmoutier may not be very large at 49 km², but it remains attractive and lively all year round. You'll love visiting it and discovering the top 10 must-sees of Noirmoutier.

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