Les Sables-d'Olonne
Les Sables-d'Olonne is the beating heart of the Vendée coast: vibrant, elegant and always on the move. The promenade "Remblai" winds along a kilometre-long beach with fine sand. Here, families, sports enthusiasts and sailors stroll side by side. The fishing district of La Chaume, with its narrow streets and colourful houses, exudes history and charm.
The world-famous Vendée Globe sailing race, an event that attracts millions of viewers, departs from the harbour. Those looking for a moment of peace can take a walk to the salt pans just outside the city, where sea salt is harvested using traditional methods.
In the evening, Les Sables-d'Olonne transforms into an atmospheric seaside resort with terraces, live music and sunsets that turn the sky orange. You can find more information on the website of the National Tourist Office.
La Rochelle
La Rochelle is one of the liveliest cities along the Atlantic coast.
The impressive towers at the harbour are a reminder of its medieval past, while the city itself is bursting with energy and culture. There are boutiques, cozy cafes and tasty restaurants under the stone arches. Sailboats and yachts are moored peacefully at the harbour.
La Rochelle Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and an absolute must-see for families. La Rochelle’s market is a feast for the senses, filled with the aroma of fresh fish, delicious cheeses and wines from the Charente-Maritime.
Boats depart from the old harbour to the famous Fort Boyard and the beautiful islands of Île de Ré and Île d'Aix. Both islands are definitely worth a visit: think white houses, quiet villages, salt fields and the opportunity to cycle along the beautiful coast. For more tourist information, please visit the official website of Nouvelle-Aquitaine Tourisme.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts
Saint-Jean-de-Monts is an ideal destination for families with children.
The beaches are wide and the sand feels wonderfully soft, while the water slopes gently, which is ideal for children. The centre has a relaxed atmosphere with cozy terraces, charming shops and a pier that juts out into the ocean.
This seaside resort is surrounded by beautiful dunes and extensive forests, through which countless cycle paths and walking routes meander. Part of the Vélodyssée runs along the coast here. In addition, many different activities are organized, from atmospheric open-air concerts to lively local markets.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts also serves as a gateway to the interior of the Vendée. Within an hour, you can drive to the Puy du Fou theme park, or to the marshes of the Marais Poitevin.
Royan
Royan is both elegant and modern. After being destroyed during the Second World War, the city was rebuilt in the Art Deco style, giving it a truly unique character. Its wide promenade, five sandy beaches and the marina make Royan one of the most popular coastal cities in the Charente-Maritime. Many tourists combine the day trip with a visit to one of the zoos in the Poitou-Charentes.
An important architectural highlight is the Marché Central market hall. Inside, you'll find a wealth of local produce such as cheeses, seafood, wine, and delicious pastries. Boats depart from the harbour to the other side of the Gironde and to Fort Boyard.
Royan is also a perfect base for day trips to neighbouring villages such as Saint-Palais-sur-Mer or Meschers-sur-Gironde, where you can visit the impressive cave dwellings in the chalk cliffs. For more information, please visit the Royan tourist website.
Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez is a quiet seaside resort with a strong natural charm character. The beaches are hidden between dunes and pine forests. Along the coast, you will find a variety of sandy beaches and rocky areas, such as at Sion-sur-l'Océan, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean.
The surrounding area is ideal for hikers and cyclists. Along the coast is a network of paths that run through forests and over cliffs. In the village itself there are lively markets, bakeries and cafes where you can taste the local specialty, the brioche vendéenne.
Châtelaillon-Plage
South of La Rochelle lies Châtelaillon-Plage, a seaside resort with a well-maintained promenade and beautiful views of the islands of Île d'Aix and Île d'Oléron. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, with shallow waters that are ideal for children to play safely.
The district of Les Boucholeurs is famous for its mussel farms. Here you can enjoy fresh mussels while looking out over the sea. In addition, Châtelaillon-Plage has a strong wellness tradition. The thalassotherapy centre on the beach attracts visitors seeking relaxation.
During the annual kite festival, hundreds of kites colour the sky above the beach — a spectacular sight that is not to be missed.
Tips for your trip through France
You will be driving regularly during your holiday. Remember to purchase an environmental sticker, as you will likely be travelling through environmental zones. A toll badge is also useful for quickly passing through toll gates. For more information, please visit our page on laws and regulations in France. Read this page carefully to avoid traffic fines.
