A summer in Vendée: top ideas to make the most of it!

Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the Vendée is a superb summer destination for beach fun or relaxing in the cool countryside. Whether you're looking for an active holiday or a more leisurely break, you'll find something to enjoy among the many activities offered in this beautiful region with its diverse landscapes. Pack your bags, and don't forget your swimsuit—the Vendée guide will be with you all summer long!

Engage in a water sport to cool off

The Vendée region is often synonymous with water sports, and rightly so, thanks to its prime location on the coast, but also to the presence of marshes, lakes, and ponds that allow you to enjoy the water all summer long. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or relaxation, there's something for everyone, including:

• Jet skiing in the open sea or on a pond to brave the waves or glide at full speed between the buoys.
• Canoeing for paddling on salt water, in the heart of the marshes or on the calm water of ponds.
• Paddleboarding can be practiced alone or with others on a large board.
• Sailing, a sport of strength and balance to move forward with the wind.
• Surfing, especially in La Tranche-sur-Mer, which has been designated a "surf town" in Vendée.

Whether at sea or inland, you'll always find a place to get in the water during the summer.

Swimming all day long during peak season

Swimsuits are essential in the Vendée region for diving headfirst into the waves ! With its 140 km of fine sandy beaches and 18 seaside resorts, it delights locals and holidaymakers alike, all thrilled to be able to swim. Several options are available depending on your preferences:

• At the beach, if you like to alternate between sunbathing and swimming
• At a leisure park to avoid salt water and enjoy shaded areas
• In a water park, you can slide down water slides, swim in a wild river, or float along a lazy river on an inner tube.

Don't forget your sunscreen to avoid getting sunburned in the summer sun.

Exploring the markets of the Vendée

This is the perfect season to stroll through the aisles and meet the producers. Poultry, préfou (a type of flatbread), salt, Noirmoutier potatoes, oysters, mussels, wine, or even Vendée brioche for breakfast—you'll find plenty to satisfy your taste buds at any time of day. Grab your basket and stock up on fresh produce ! You can even take the opportunity to put together a delicious picnic to enjoy on the beach, or take a coffee break on a shaded terrace.

Visiting an island in the Vendée

Set sail to discover two local gems : the island of Yeu and the island of Noirmoutier.

The first island, accessible only by boat (remember to book your ticket, places fill up quickly in summer), offers a beautiful mosaic of landscapes, from its port and beaches to its cliffs and pretty, secluded coves fringed with greenery. You can enjoy numerous activities there, such as surfing, sea kayaking, sailing, or scuba diving, and also cycle around the island, a distance of 28km.

The second route is reached via the Noirmoutier bridge or the Passage du Gois, a 4.2 km submersible causeway known as a superb fishing spot, accessible only at low tide. The island of Noirmoutier is magnificent for strolling through the marshes, enjoying a swim on the large beaches or secluded coves, walking in the cool shade of the forest, or cycling on the mostly flat bike paths.

Exploring the Vendée by bike in summer

Cycling tourism is another way to discover the region, pedaling at your own pace along the 1,800 km of marked cycle paths. Whether by the sea or inland, you'll enjoy crossing the marshes, visiting charming villages, or reaching the beaches under your own steam. Perfect for cycling holidays, the Vendée boasts numerous establishments with the "Accueil Vélo" (Cyclist Welcome) label, equipped with everything you need for your two-wheeler. Fancy a beautiful multi-day getaway in the saddle? Take the Vélodyssée, which runs along the Atlantic coast from Roscoff to Hendaye for 1,200 km (200 km of which are in the Vendée).

Experience a day at Puy du Fou

Did you know that Puy du Fou is named the Best Theme Park in the World ? Take advantage of your summer in the Vendée region to discover this exceptional site that immerses you in over 2,000 years of French history and legends! Between visits to villages from different eras, breathtakingly realistic and magical shows, and the Cinéscénie, the fabulous nighttime spectacular, you'll be starry-eyed after an unforgettable day at Puy du Fou.

Participate in summer events in Vendée

High season is the perfect time for fun! Every year, festivities bring the region to life, much to the delight of holidaymakers who can sing, laugh, and dance all evening long. Whether by the sea or inland, no corner is left out, as even small villages organize events like the Biga festival in Martinet, or the festive evening in Nieul-le-Dolent. Here are a few unmissable festivals in the Vendée:

• The Poupet festival takes place between June and July;
• The Festival des Sables at the end of June;
• The summer surge across the entire Vendée coast all summer long.

And many others, not forgetting the open-air cafes which regularly organize small concerts.

Gaining altitude on the Vendée coast

Experience the unique sensation of freedom during an open-air flight. While the Vendée is a beautiful region, it's even more breathtaking from above, offering sublime, postcard-perfect landscapes. Luçon, Fontenay-le-Comte, La Roche-sur-Yon, or Les Sables-d'Olonne are just some of the many destinations where you can take to the skies accompanied by passionate professionals. Whether you choose a microlight, hot air balloon, helicopter, or seaplane, opt for a relaxing or exhilarating flight and get your adrenaline pumping.

Enjoying a seafood platter with your feet in the sand

In the Vendée region, summer means mussels and fries, plates of oysters, or a delicious seafood platter accompanied by a chilled glass of Fief Vendéen white wine. And there's no shortage of places to enjoy the bounty of the sea, from oyster huts and beachfront restaurants to charming pedestrian harbors. Whether prepared marinière, with cream, curry, or Roquefort cheese, mussels are a delight, while oysters with vinegar or a squeeze of lemon reveal sublime, briny aromas.

Have a great summer holiday in Vendée !

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