Bike ride and discovery tour between Talmont-St-Hilaire and Jard-sur-mer

How about a short bike ride between Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and Jard-sur-Mer, retracing the history of this area? If so, hop on your best bike and set off to discover this very typical corner of the Vendée thanks to the "Ride with Richard the Lionheart" Discovery Trail.

"It's rolling with Richard the Lionheart!": an original heritage tour!

The Vendée region has no shortage of cycle paths and therefore many unmissable routes to discover. But if there's one you absolutely must try, it's the "Let's ride with Richard de Lion!" route.

Covering less than 30 kilometers, this bike ride is divided into 9 stages, allowing you to discover the historical, cultural, and natural treasures of the region. There isn't really a starting point, as it's a loop. You begin at any of the 9 stages and then cycle in whichever direction you prefer! The route is very well marked thanks to excellent signage. Once you've identified the first sign, simply look for the next one, which will guide you to the next site to visit.

Unique natural sites

Comprising 9 stages, your walk will be punctuated by varied and typical marsh landscapes, information on the origin of the places you will encounter, and historical references.

Among the natural sites to discover are:

• The marsh observatory: from this spot, appreciate the fauna and flora that make up this Natura 2000 classified site.

Take the time to discover this incredible environment

• The fishpond: these date back to the 11^th century, as do the nearby salt marshes.

Crossing the marsh with your bicycle

• The oyster port: it represented one of the major economic activities until the 19^th century

Welcome to the world of oyster farming

These places symbolize the importance of nature and the agricultural exploitation associated with its specific characteristics.

Take the time to savor these unique spaces! Here, everything is peaceful, and everyone enjoys the surroundings, contemplating the vegetation and the wildlife that lives here. Look up and watch the birds flying overhead. And if you have the chance, try some oysters directly from the producer!

Historical sites

It's no coincidence that the route is named after the King of England! Did you know that he held so many titles? You'll learn that in addition to his title of King of England, he was also Count of Poitou and Duke of Aquitaine. We're right in the heart of his county! As you cycle along, you'll discover that he was responsible for reinforcing the fortifications of Talmont-Saint-Hilaire Castle and for building Lieu-Dieu Abbey, located in the town of Jard-sur-Mer.

These two sites are definitely worth a visit.

The Church of Sainte-Radegonde, for its part, has no real connection with Richard the Lionheart. However, it is a true historical asset, not only because it is a listed building, but also because excavations have shown that it was built on the site of an ancient Gallo-Roman villa.

To understand the route and its various stages, interpretive panels are available. These panels aim to immerse you in the history. They provide historical and contextual information so you can understand how this territory came to be, why it has such advantages, and what elements have contributed to shaping it over the centuries.

We hope you enjoyed your bike ride in the company of Richard the Lionheart. The cycle paths of South Vendée and the charming villages you passed through are just waiting for you!

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