What to do in Vendée during winter?

The Vendée coastline, with its pine forests, beaches, and coastal vegetation , doesn't change much during the winter. Winter temperatures in the Vendée remain very pleasant, and you'll appreciate the beautiful light that highlights both the ocean panoramas and the inland landscapes. Visit the charming towns and villages, enjoy the natural sites, the architecture, the small shops and restaurants of the Vendée, and the weekly markets where you can sample Vendée specialties, all without the tourist crowds! The Vendée in winter is a truly delightful destination for those who love nature and authenticity!

Strolling on the beach, in the forest or the Vendée countryside

Winter beach walks are magical! Feeling the sea spray on your face, getting a good dose of iodine (it's so good for your health!), strolling freely without having to weave between towels… There are few people, and the pleasure is maximum. A walk in the forest ? It's the same. In the small towns along the coast, you'll enjoy superb walks with friends or family. The pine forests remain lush green, and the deciduous trees are bare, offering beautiful bursts of sunlight. Take advantage of the sunshine whenever it appears, with a warm jacket, boots if needed, and a thermos of hot drink, some clementines, and shortbread cookies for an impromptu snack on the go! Great memories await everyone!

Discover the joys of shore fishing

Take advantage of the winter spring tides to discover the joys of shellfish gathering ! Shells and crustaceans await, feet in the wet sand (with boots on). You only need a few essentials ; even a spoon and a bucket will suffice for fun! Be sure to check the regulations regarding harvesting (there are minimum sizes to respect). Pay close attention to the tide times so you don't get caught by the rising water, which can come in very quickly!

Go for a stroll in the market

Weekly markets are a source of joy, delicious food, and warm encounters all year round. If you don't have time to go during the summer, enjoy the Vendée markets in winter. You'll find all the gastronomic specialties of the Vendée there, which you can also discover in Vendée restaurants, offering a treat and a relaxing moment without having to cook.

On our way to the oyster huts!

Oysters, you know, are said to be delicious during the months containing the letter R (from September to March). Winter is the perfect season to bundle up and settle down on the seaside terrace of an oyster shack in the Vendée region. With a platter of seafood or oysters in front of you and a delicious glass of dry white wine in hand, you'll feel like royalty! Check out our selection of oyster farmers in the Vendée, and also our feature on Les Viviers de Sions, a true institution for buying your seafood in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez !

Going for a swim in the sea in winter, or a swim in a swimming pool?

Some swimming pools and water parks remain open in winter. For those who can't bring themselves to dip a toe in the water during the winter months, try it anyway with a wetsuit. Why not start with a coastal walking class ? This very trendy activity simply involves walking in rhythm and in a group along the beach, but IN THE WATER! Laughter, muscle toning, and a refreshing sea air massage guaranteed. Always be very careful when swimming in the ocean during the winter!

To swim in a pool in Vendée in winter, some places remain open, such as the Aqua°bulles Aquatic Centre in Saint-Fulgent, the Aqualonne Aquatic Centre as well as the remblai pool in Les Sables d'Olonne, the Pays de Pouzauges Aquatic Centre, the Le Cap Aquatic Complex in La-Roche-sur-Yon, the Bretonnière pool in Montaigu.

Taking care of oneself

Winter in the Vendée region offers a peaceful respite from the summer crowds. It's the perfect time to nurture yourself. Between a thalassotherapy, hammam, or spa treatment, why not enjoy a massage or a meditation session overlooking the Atlantic? Winter is the season for cozying up, slowing down, and taking care of yourself so you're ready for spring!

Visits to charming towns and villages in Vendée

We stroll along the beach, but also through the charming towns and villages of the Vendée ! If you're near the sea, you should know that the Vendée's seaside resorts are lovely all year round! They are, of course, much less crowded than in the summer season, and some activities aren't yet available, but the little shops, businesses, and beautiful scenery are still there. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you can truly enjoy yourself…

Visit Fontenay-le-Comte, designated a "Town and Land of Art and History". Also visit Vouvant and its Mélusine Tower, a Small Town of Character.

A little sport and games?

• For climbing, racquet sports, interactive games, and for taking children to have fun in a safe and suitable indoor sports complex, Red Zone is a place you need to know! Located in Challans, it even has a delicious restaurant where you can enjoy a full day with a meal break or treat yourself after a sporting activity with family or friends.
• Also in La Roche-sur-Yon, discover PlayBox, a place for bouldering and indoor sports. ^3000m² of fun activities for everyone, young and old. A trampoline park, sand courts for beach-style ball games, squash and badminton, and also a place to enjoy quality food.
• Ludylab in Chanverrie is a space dedicated to virtual reality. It is actually a very diverse place where you can test your drone piloting skills, try all sorts of interactive experiences with arcade machines and various types of games.
• Fun Bowling 85 welcomes you to Les Herbiers for a thrilling game of Laser Tag. Tactics, physical fitness, strategy, and good cardio will be essential to outplay your opponents! On-site, you'll find a bowling alley with 10 modern lanes and an arcade.

We wish you a wonderful discovery of the Vendée in Winter!

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