Natur'Zoo de Mervent Animal Park

Natur'Zoo is an animal park ideal for a leisurely family outing in the Mervent-Vouvant forest.

The zoo features over 300 animals of the bird, reptile, mammal variety including lions from Angola, meerkats and, in a nutshell, 60 species from all five continents.

The zoo is involved in conservation and environmental projects at European level.

Included in the price of your ticket from April to September, on weekends, public holidays and every day during school vacations (depending on zone and weather), are the interactions between caretakers and animals during feeing time. For the little ones there is a mini petting farm with goats, donkeys, chickens, alpacas and guinea pigs. There is also a playground with a monkey bridge, a zip line, slides and swings.

Special program for junior caretakers from 10 to 14yrs old. Activities include the preparation of food for the animals, feeding and preparation of enrichment games for the animals, and a visit behind the scenes.

There is an extra cost for this and with limited places reservations are necessary. Practical information here. You can register your child for the 2022 season via email contact@naturzoomervent.com.

Open – 05/02/2022 to 14/11/2022 see 
Info & tarifs – here
Tip – Follow the zoo on social media Facebook or Twitter to keep up to date with announcements
Reduced mobility accessible – yes, but there are some slopes. Some wheelchairs available on site.
Dogs – no
Picnic tables or catering – yes
Address – Le Gros Roc, 85200 Mervent
GPS coordinates – 46° 30′ 40″ N, 0° 44′ 46″ W
Directions - enter your starting location

La Cité des Oiseaux - TOP CHOICE

Don't miss this incredible nature reserve located on one of the largest North-South migratory routes for birds, making it a major ornithological center. The Cité des Oiseaux (bird city) is one of the largest wetlands in the heart of the Vendee, (temporary) home to species such as the pochard and tufted scaup, great crested grebes, little grebes, whistling ducks, mallards, grey herons etc.

The park of some 56 hectares features two enormous ponds. There are around 3000 birds every day, some 210 species! Amateur and professional photographers, avid birders, nature lovers, and families can observe species from the observatory, the belvedere or simply by walking the trails of this amazing natural site.

So, wear your walking shoes and appropriate clothing (sunscreen), and don't for get your camera and binoculars!

Open – 09/04/2022 to 07/11/20222
Info & tarifs – here
Save – Pass Vendee
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – no
Picnic tables – yes
Tip – Family activities with treasure hunts, special adventures, and workshops for the children
Address –La Cité des Oiseaux, 14, the Butchers 85130 Les Landes-Genusson
GPS coordinates – 46.9623624468898, -1.141843935534716
Directions – Enter your location

L'Ile aux Papillons

Take a delightful stroll and discover hundreds of butterfly species from all over the world fluttering about in a tropical environment, the largest conservatory in France with a constant temperature of 26c.

Observe the life cycle of the butterfly at birth and all the stages in between. 

A mesmerizing experience to share with the whole family! Don't forget your camera as photo-ops are guaranteed.

No butterflies are taken from the wild. All butterflies come from breeding farms in their country of origin, supporting the economy and the indigenous people who support themselves by breeding butterflies.

Additionally the Butterfly Island greenhouse is a natural habitat where plants and butterflies thrive. No phytosanitary products are used for pest control. That job is performed by ladybugs and other insects.

Water used for watering and humidifying the greenhouse is harvested from rain collected from roofs and stored in tanks.

Open – 10/04/2022 to 
Info & tarifs – here
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – small animals that can be carried in arms or basket only
Picnic tables or catering – yes, covered picnic area. Drinks and ice cream.
TIP – excellent activity on a rainy day. 
Address – 5 Rue de la Fassonnière, 85680 La Guérinière
GPS coordinates – 46.97302982943517, -2.2435744476511283
Directions –  enter your location
Nearby Sightseeing – the island of Noirmoutier has a lot to offer

Château Féodal de Sigournais

Chateau de Sigournais was restored in the 15th century on the foundation of an earlier one (anno 1000.) In its restored state, the castle represents one of the best preserved examples of a military donjon in the Vendée.

During summer months there are often interesting art exhibits. The castle and its gardens are definitely something to see.

Special attention is granted to the young visitors with a Knight's Challenge game book.

Open – 02/07/2022 to 04/09/2022 (and journées patrimoine 3rd weekend September)
Info & Tarifs – here
Reduced mobility access – limited
Dogs – no
Picnic tables or catering– no
Address – Château Féodal de Sigournais, Rue du Donjon, 85110 Sigournais
GPS coordinates – 46° 42′ 14″ N, 0° 59′ 07″ O
Directions – enter your location
Special events – medieval festival and spectacles every summer

Château de Talmont

The latest archeological research revealed that the first stone foundations (the bell tower) of the Château de Talmont date back to the year 1024.

Under the authority of the Count of Poitou and Duke of Aquitaine, Guillaume V, this coastal territory (at the time the castle was IN the sea) needed to be defended from invasions by the Normans.

It was the beginning of a turbulent history that went all the way through to the time of the Plantagenets.

Its location not only allowed it to be built with rocks mined from the sea, which at the beginning of the XIth century was unusual, it also stood in defense of the the biggest port between Nantes and Bordeaux.

Part of the castle's strategic dominance over the area was being bordered by the Sauvagère and the Payré rivers. Twice a day, at high tide, the castle was completely surrounded by water.

From this time through the centuries to 1794 when the area had silted up and the castle was already being dismantled, it changed hands between powerful lords and French Kings, between Catholics and Protestants.

The feudal Château de Talmont remains an important part of historical research and excavation.

Open – From 11/04/2022; year-round for groups 
Special events – easter egg hunt, summer, Halloween etc (see schedule), medieval festival etc., escape game
Info & tarifs –  website
Reduced mobility access – please contact chateau@talmontsainthilaire.fr
or by telephone 02 51 90 27 43
Dogs – yes, on a leash
Picnic tables – yes
Address – 8 Rue du Chateau, 85440 Talmont-Saint-Hilaire
GPS coordinates –  46.518697, -0.898290;
Directions – enter your location

Donjon de Bazoges-en-Pareds

The donjon of Bazoges-en-Pareds rises from the Vendée farmland like a medieval skyscraper. Measuring 30 meters high and composed of six levels, it is impressive. The two rooms on the second level of the castle are beautifully vaulted.

During its history, the castle changed hands many times until in 1859 it was purchased by the Pervinquière family. They owned it for one-hundred-and-thirty years.

Today the donjon and its surrounding structures, like the bakery and blacksmith forge, still exist.

The garden was created in 1994 after the model of 15th Century medieval gardens: from the sundial in the center are sixteen squares enclosed by chestnut fascines (bundles of branches entwined around low stakes forming a border). The individual squares are designated for vegetables, for aromatic plants, medicinal herbs, plants used in witchcraft, flowers and an orchard.

In medieval times, the garden represented the heart of activity, whether it was for storytelling, sustenance or healing, or courtly love. In summer, the Château de Bazoges-en-Pareds is home to many awesome events, kids workshops, and spectacles.

Open – April through 3rd weekend September. Year-round for groups 
Info & Tarifs – website 
Reduced mobility access – limited to (sensory) gardens and outbuildings
Dogs – not in the castle. In the garden, on a leash, yes.
Picnic tables or catering– no
Address: 12 Cour du Château, 85390 Bazoges-en-Pareds
GPS coordinates – 46° 39′ 23″ N, 0° 54′ 54″ W
Directions – enter your location
Tip – Participate in the ballade nocturnal around the village and castle. Other special events include an apéro concert, workshops for children. Spectacular nocturne medieval (July/ August).
Nearby sightseeing –  6000 yr old dolmen

Superb cycling and mountain biking

What seems to surprise many a visitor is that the Vendée is not (completely) flat! We have spoken to people who'd strapped their bike to the car for a cycling holiday featuring easy terrain and found the hills bit them hard in the glutes. Of course, there are flat cycling paths aplenty but just be aware that every once in a while you might encounter one of our 'little' hills.

There is a reason the Vendée is home to a professional cycling team (Total Energie): the topography is perfect for an easy to intermediate to difficult rides. There is even an annual Tour de Vendée which draws big names like Dutch wonder-boy Van der Poel.

But flat or not, coast or inland, cycling and mountain biking are a beloved activity here. All along the Atlantic there is an efficiently maintained network of cycle paths to discover the wild Vendée coast safely from forest, to marshes, dunes and beaches.

The area (formerly Poitou) used to be an ocean bay made up of many little islands until the monks devised an ingenious way to gain land and make it fertile.

This created the Marais Poitevin (or the Green Venice) and Marais Breton, large areas of canals and marshes that anno 2022 feature lovely cycling paths.

For people who enjoy building their vacation around cycling completely, check these interesting cycling itineraries for the Vendée.

MTB trails are also dotted around the department, e.g. in the Masif-Forestier de Mervent-Vouvant where trails narrow, wide and steep range from easy to difficult, reaching heights of nearly 300 meters or approx. 1000 feet!

It's a huge forest of 5000 hectares which includes a family circuit, a 9 km mountain bike route from Mervent especially adapted to young cyclists incl. picnic tables along the way.

Vendée counts nearly 1800km of biking paths and is a top destination for a family cycle holiday in France.

• For a slew of cycling trails, check these Vendée Vélo itineraries suitable to all levels of experience.

In more good news these stunning landscapes are accessible for cycling and mountain biking year-round! (unless deemed too dangerous due to weather conditions.)

At inthevendee.com we are fierce advocates of wearing a cycling helmet. Please protect your family.

A few cycling & Mountain biking routes

• MTB best routes as selected from data of cycling App komoot.com
• La Vélodyssée is a stunning 1200 km long cycle route along the Atlantic coast, from Brittany to  Charante-Maritime, including the entire Vendée coast.

• For the super ambitious, cycle to the Vendée from anywhere in Europe, the EuroVelo site will be of assistance to you.
• Vélofrancette a cycling route of 600 km from Ouistreham to La Rochelle
• La Voie Verte is a beautiful cycling route of some 36km (one way) built on a former railroad from La Roche-sur-Yon through the Yonnaise countryside and the villages of La Génétouze, Aizenay, and Coex. From Coex it is possible to pedal on via a shared lane of 6km before rejoining the Green Belt at St Hilaire de Riez to St. Gilles Croix de Vie. From Coex you can also ride to Apremont. The route is 36km between La Roche and Coex (one way) and La Voie Verte is paved in asphalt.

Here is a comprehensive cycling map courtesy of Vendée Tourisme. Go to any tourism office to pick up the necessary booklets and maps.

Les Sentiers du Marais Poitevin take you along polders and marshlands (Baie d' Aiguillon), the Marais Poitevinm the Mervent forest, Vouvant, and more picturesque villages towards the Sentiers d'Haute Bocage. Les Sentiers d'Haute Bocage follows agricultural roads and paths through the countryside, including a repurposed railway track of some 27 km.

Apps

Komoot.com

Bike rental

Google Maps locations

Escape Games

If you love an air of mystery or are a terrifi problem solver, immerse yourself in a fun "live" puzzle with the whole family.

An escape room, or escape game, puzzle room or exit game, is a 'mystery game' in which a team of players are led from clue to clue by solving puzzles, to accomplish a specific goal against the clock.

The goal is often to escape from the site of the game and sessions are typically to be completed within 60 minutes.

Typically the escape rooms in the Vendée operate with French scripts, so, it's a great way to practice the language if that is what you're looking for. Of course, you can use a translation app during the game as well. (we recommend Deepl)

Solving an escape game puzzle is a wonderful activity en famille, but also a birthday party/present your teenagers will not soon forget.

Please check local websites for safety measures, reduced mobility access, duration, etc.

Google map to Escape game experiences

Check the map

Daytime  -and nighttime fishing 

From the Atlantic ocean, to lakes, to rivers, to the marais, and even fishing ponds, the Vendée catch (2nd category) includes bass, large conger eels, eels, trout, carp, pike, pike perch, roach, bream, rudd,  tench, sardines, and more. In the marais and in random ditches even the Louisiana red crayfish is present. 

With a total of 4,500 kilometers of waterways and approximately 1,400 ha of dam lakes (for production of drinking water) Vendée offers an ideal spot for every experienced to novice fisherman or fisherwoman.

Night fishing is a popular local sport in the Massif-Forestier de Mervent-Vouvant. Enthusiasts can fish for pike, eel, perch and roach from 3.2 km of shoreline, or by boat on the 128 ha lake. A fishing dock and boat launch are accessible at Mervent, near the Valley Bridge outside the village. Fancy some nighttime carp fishing? You'll not find yourself alone under the stars.

Below is a link to our complete guide to fishing in the Vendée including schedule and French lexicon.

Fishing lakes in the Vendée and links to Google maps. Simply enter your point of departure for the route.

Le Barrage d'Albert
85200 Saint-Michel-le-Cloucq
Lac d'Aprémont
85190 Maché
Lac de Finfarine
85440 Poiroux
Lac de Graon
85540 Saint-vincent-sur-Graon
Lac de Gué Gorand
85220 Coëx
Lac de La Bultière
85130 Bazoges en Paillers
Lac de la Chausselière
85600 La Guyonnière
Lac de la Vouraie
85480 Saint Hilaire le Vouhis

L'Angle Guignard
85110 Chantonnay
Lac du Jaunay
85220 La Chapelle Hermier
Lac du Marillet
85320 Château-Guibert
Lac de Mervent
85200 Mervent
Barrage de Moulin Papon
85000 La Roche-sur-Yon
Pierre Brune
85120 Vouvant
Lac de Rochereau
85110 Monsireigne
Lac de Finfarine (Sorin)
85440 Poiroux
Barrage de Vouvant
85120 Vouvant

Anglers must hold a valid, current fishing license.
You can get them online here.

Mervent-Vouvant forest

The Mervent-Vouvant forest features 150 km of marked equestrian paths between St Maurice des Noues and Fontenay le Comte offering a multitude of difficulty levels, geographical terrain and vistas that morph with the seasons.

The circuits in the forest massif are marked with a yellow horseshoe. DO bring a map. It's possible to cross other circuits and find yourself on another loop. Circuits may be shared with other visitors of the forest.

Local equestrian companies (e.g. Saint Maurice des Noues Ferme Equestre) offer excursions. Please contact them for schedules and more information.

Easy circuits include:

• Foussais Payre-La Grande Rhée (27km - easy) info, GPX & Maps
• Vouvant - Les Guillotières (17km - easy) info, GPX & maps
• Le Noyau (11.6km - easy) info, GPX & maps
• Pierre Brune (8km - easy) info, GPX & maps

Difficult circuits include:

• Mervent - Pont de la Vallée (24km - difficult) info, GPX & Maps
• Le Moulin Neuf (9.1km - difficult) info, GPX & maps
• Les Verreries (7.2km - difficult) info, GPX & maps
• La Mélusine (6.6km - difficult) info, GPS & maps

Open – Open all year
Dogs – yes
Picnic tables or catering – there are 63+ picnic areas in and around the forest. Here is a list. There is a bakery in the forest where you can get sandwiches and drinks to consume on the terrace or take with you.
Parkings – Please consult included links for nearby parkings

Google map to equestrian centers in the Vendée

Corn mazes

Outside the village of Vendrennes, there is a corn maze for your family to go and conquer, a corn maze that is not only open during the day, but also in the evening after dark on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Each year, to organizers apply a new theme to the maze. In season 2022 that theme is the 4 seasons of life as a farmer. 

In the maze, you'll solve puzzles and overcome obstacles, and the exit may be just an illusion! The maze will take you about 1h30 to navigate but there is more to do on the site. There are farm animals, a mini straw maze and various wooden games, a picnic area and a shop where you can purchase local products. 

• Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Nocturnes until midnight on Wednesdays and Saturdays

Open – 02/07/2022 - 31/08/2022
Info & tarifs – here
Reservations online (-.50c discount) – here 
Picnic tables or catering on-site – yes
Address –5 Route de la forêt, 85250 Vendrennes
GPS Coordinates – 46.825812714786125, -1.1089913264528226
Directions – Enter your location

Atlantic Kart System

Loated 10 minutes from Les Sables d'Olonne in the Vendée bring your inner champion to the karting circuit of of Thomas Laurent winner of the 24H du Mans LMP2 2017, third of the 24h du Mans 2018 LMP1 and KZ2 World Karting Champion 2015.

The track of 1000m (1km) is equipped with a timing system and karts are individually adaptable. Miscellaneous packages are available depending on age of the child.

Open – Open all year, from age 7
Info & tarifs – here
Reservations – 0251325252
Address – Lieu dit Le Coudriou, 85180 Sables d'Olonne
GPS Coordinates – 46.51215573249405, -1.6825807688986842
Directions – Enter your location

Other karting addresses in the Vendée

Ecomuseum le Daviaud

Le Daviaud is foremost a gateway for the marshes. You will go through its different facet, its functioning, its roots and the history of those who live here…

A TOTAL IMMERSION IN THE VERY HEART OF THE VENDEE BRETON MARSHES

The wonders of this area will amaze you. Fauna and flora compose a colorful blend that give to the landscape a singular and unique character

Le Daviaud offers English-speaking visitors audio guides in English.

Open – 19/05/2022 to 07/11/2022
Info & tarifs – here

Disabilities – all paths and buildings are accessible to people with mobility issues. Wheelchairs and folding chairs available. Guide or service dogs are allowed throughout the site. Both audio, and sensory touch. Sign language coming soon.
Dogs – no
Picnic tables or catering on-site – yes
Duration of the visit – min. 2 hours to a day
Address –Le Daviaud, 85550 La Barre-de-Monts
GPS coordinates – 46.879030518121446, -2.10530208534945
Directions – Enter your location

Vendée Miniature - top choice

Imagine rural life in the 1920's in the Vendée. If nothing comes to mind, head straight for the Vendée Miniature museum where you are warmly invited by the artists to dive into an old countryside village built on a 1/10th sale.

Landscapes, buildings, trades, traditions reconstructed reveal rural Vendée 100 years ago, revealing traditions, the seasons and important events that eventually meet modern life.

The family who owns and operates the 780sq.m. (air-conditioned) structure are also the creators of incredible models, a passion project that took 16 years to bring to fruition.

There are 50 buildings, each meticulously constructed with authentic materials, 40 horse-drawn carriages  reproduced from real models. A miniature train with 030T Buffaud and Robatel locomotive and wagons totaling 2.65 meters travels around some 70 meters of rail. There are a mind boggling 650 characters and thousands of accessories. It is magical for the whole family.

Open – 01/04/2022
Info & tarifs – here
TIP – pottery workshops for adults/ parents and children from 6 years old. From April to September.  7 people maximum. Reservations
Reduced mobility access – yes. Site adapted to people with motor, mental and hearing disabilities
Dogs – Generally not allowed. Exceptions: small dogs that can be carried (call ahead to be sure)
Picnic tables – yes
Address –50 Rue du Prégneau, 85470 Bretignolles-sur-Mer
GPS coordinates – 46.635959063209775, -1.869696927954006
Directions – Enter your location

Le potager extraordinaire - open in 2023

Open – July 2023
Info & tarifs – here
Gardening blog –  here
Dogs, picnic tables or catering on-site – no info
TIP – workshops and special events for children (e.g. Halloween)
Address – Beautour, Route de Curzais , 85000 LA ROCHE SUR YON
GPS coordinates – 46.664865716138365, -1.3579986387964393
Directions – enter your location

Mines de Faymoreau

In 1927, while digging a well nearby, it was a local clog maker who discovered coal by chance. It was an event that changed the socio-economic life for the region for the next 130 years.

It's difficult to imagine now (in the age of environmental alarms) that coal was once considered 'black gold'. In the minuscule village of Faymoreau, generation upon generation risked their lives to bring coal from the bowels of the earth, to the surface.

Those people as well as the history of environmental evolution embody exactly the reason why the mines of Faymoreau are interesting to visit at all ages.

The excellent museum is housed in the old glass factory dormitory created to consume the low quality coal that was mined, on site.

The glass factory proved to be a clever business pursuit as it allowed for the production of millions of bottles for the Cognac and Bordeaux regions, as well as jars and garden bells. Other companies that used  Faymoreau coal included the tile -and brick makers in the area, as well as the lime kilns. (e.g. Fours a Chaux in 85490 Benet)

Faymoreau was a hive of activity, at one point counting over 1000 inhabitants including migrants, many of whom Polish. But in 1950 the coal deposit ran dry. The mine closed permanently in 1958.

If mine settlements could tell stories, Faymoreau would certainly be one of them. The quaint old miner's cottages are still inhabited, earning the village the title of Petite Cité de Caractère^® for its remarkable patrimony.

Also to see here are cultivated allotments, the stained glass windows by Carmelo Zagari in the Miners' Chapel.

A hiking circuit of 12km called "Chemin de la Mine" and a cycling path connecting with "Vendée Vélo" were established to highlight the area as an Urban and Landscape Architectural Heritage Protection Zone.

Open – 05/02/2022 to 06/11/2022
Info & tarifs – here
Exhibition – In 2022, the Centre Minier museum offers a delightful exhibition honoring the history of the mines of Faymoreau in LEGO® bricks!
Dogs, picnic tables or catering on-site – no info
TIP – apple farms nearby - get your apples straight from the source during the harvest
Address – la Cour, 85240 Faymoreau
GPS coordinates – 46.55529045676741, -0.6309563478220622
Directions – enter your location

Mervent-Vouvant Forest

Athletes to artists will find the Forest of Mervent-Vouvant to be an area for sports, contemplation, admiration, and inspiration. The natural beauty of the countryside with its sloping hills invite those among you who favor these activities.

You will be in your element in this 55hectare magical place. The Vendée's largest forest offers an array of activities, but the most popular among locals are hiking and mountain biking.

Year-round, the forest is a peaceful haven, a protected nature reserve that shines its enchanted spirit everywhere you cast your eyes.

From naked trees in the winter, to their chartreuse awakening, from the birth of wildflowers in spring, to welcome shade in the summer heat, and a breathtaking pallet of fall colors.

Trails narrow, wide and steep range from easy to difficult, reaching heights of nearly 300 meters or approx. 1000 feet! Welcome to the Vendée! More information here.

Open – all year round
TIP: Wear good shoes and take water! Be aware that not all trails make a loop so please research before departure.
Link to hiking and mountain biking trails – in the forest (from easy to hard)
Dogs – yes
Address – 85200 Mervent
Popular walk (easy) – Le Petit Maillezais 5km around the lake, a walk of approximately 1h45m
Picnic areas – there are 63+ picnic aread in and around the forest. Here is a list
Images – by inthevendee.com except intro image courtesy of Vendée Expansion/ Julien Gazeau

Marais Poitevin Guided Walk

A sensory and informative walking tour for children and parents!

A guide takes you and your family on a 3.5 km walking tour discussing animals, plants and the history of the beautiful Marais Poitevin whose canals were developed from the ocean by monks many centuries ago.

Equip your family with the necessary things for a walk through the swamps.

It is advised to wear closed shoes, weather appropriate clothing, to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, water and some snacks.

This tour will probably be in French but please don't let that stop you!

Open – all year round
Tip – bring your camera 
Cost – 5.50 €/adults and 7€/child
Reduced mobility access - not on the swamp paths (difficult) please call them as they may be able to make arrangements. The facilities petting zoo are wheelchair accessible as are the facilities
Dogs – no

Picnic or onsite catering – there is a bar and some tables outside

Address – Sainte Christine, 85490 BENET
Reservations – 02.51.52.98.38 or contact@lafermedumaraispoitevin.fr
Free alternative: see our article about hidden corners in the Vendée for La Claye walk incl. picnic area
Images – by inthevendee.com except intro image courtesy of Vendée Expansion/ Julien Gazeau

Réserve Biologique du Vendée

This biological reserve developed by the Department of Vendée is a man-made ecological reserve that leads you through life in the Marais Poitevin in the XIXth century.

Located in the northern part of the Poitevin marsh, it is one of the last examples of wooded wet marshes in the area. In order to ensure the status of a reserved natural space, the Department has divided the space into two parts, each with a specific vocation.

The first with a scientific vocation, refuge for many species, and the second with an educational landscape, aesthetic and historical vocation where the sectors formerly maintained without clearing them are valued. 

This natural habitat offers 146 hectares of exceptional richness, 3 areas to discover flora including 319 plant species, and fauna including otters, wild boar, deer, species of bugs including beautiful butterflies and moth... all along more than 4km of walking trails that are also wheelchair friendly.

Highly recommended for the whole family, all generations! Free access! 

Open – Open from April to 7 November. Schedule. 
Family activities – picnic tables, treasure hunt and more!
School holidays – many special events throughout the summer such as nature walks, guided tours and workshops
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – no
Picnic tables – yes 
Address – Departmental Biological Reserve, Les huttes 85370 Nalliers
GPS coordinates – N46 ° 26’34.81 ” /O 01 ° 01’19.34 ”
Enter your location
Adult groups – by reservation on 02 51 97 69 80
Images – by pixabay

Les Salines - TOP CHOICE

Discover the heart of the marsh d’Olonne and all of its natural treasures.

Boat rides take you to the Jardin des Salines where the salt workers mine their 'white gold' from the sea. 

On your journey, touch the secret routes the smugglers used to use (many centuries ago salt was a precious commodity), learn about the centuries old trade of salt, meet the salt workers, become an apprentice (harvest your own salt) and so much more.

The Salt Adventure Park also offers a unique look at the fishermen's huts of bygone years and secrets of the trade, bird life, fun and games, all in a natural setting.

Children receive the “Petit Saunier” diploma after learning to harvest. You can also rent canoes and paddle boards.

Yet another adventure park in a natural setting where learning while having fun is central to the experience.

Open – from April to the end of June and from September 1st to the end of the All Saints holidays. See website for details

Info & tarifs – here
Reservations – 02 51 21 01 19 or online in season
Duration of visit – depends on your adventure package. Min. 2 hours
Reduced mobility access – yes, but call 02 51 21 01 19 (e.g. electric wheelchairs cannot go on the boats, regular wheelchair, 1 per boat)
Dogs – yes, on a leash
Picnic tables or catering on-site – no
Address – Route de l'Aubraie, 85100 LES SABLES D'OLONNE
GPS coordinates – 46.51618176014869, -1.8049830021322286
Directions – Enter your location
Adult groups – by reservation on 02 51 97 69 80

DINO PARK

In this interactive family park featuring robotic systems that lets the dinosaurs move, roar, breathe, let yourself be amazed by prehistoric scenes, a dinosaur -and prehistory trail, cave painting, virtual reality 4D experiences etc.

The younger audience will enjoy the discovery of excavation, fossils, treasure hunts, educational wooden games, an excavation area, the discovery of a fossils, archery, a treasure hunt.

There is also a playground with pedal go-karts, mini-golf , buoy slide and more

Open – 09/04/2022 to 11/09/2022
Info & Tarifs – website
Reduced mobility access – difficult. Also difficult for strollers (baby carrier recommended)
Dogs – no
Picnic tables or catering on-site – yes
Address – 63 Av. de la Faye, 85270 Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
GPS Coordinates – 46.737228364597904, -1.9727820879235547
Directions – enter your location

O'fun PARK - Top Tip

In the heart of the forest located in proximity of the Vendéen seaside resorts, the O'Fun leisure park invites you for a day of fun with family and friends.

O'Fun is already described by its name.

It is a large adventure park where you're invited to discover your inner child, and where children can tap into just how adventurous they can be.

Activities range from waterjump (slides ending in water), accrobranching through numerous treetop courses, dueling, zip-lining, paintball and other games for children.

Accrobranching is a phenomenal tree climbing activity accessible from the age of 2. The 17+ courses are marked by color, are supervised by qualified instructors and allow you to safely progress at your family's pace.

A briefing on the safety rules is given before each departure.

Children under 5yo are hooked to a "continuous line" system for maximum safety. Everyone else is provided with a click-it harness.

The largest leisure park in the Vendée welcomes you from April to September. Please wear casual clothes and sports shoes. 

Open – 09/04/2022 to 25/09/2022 details
Info, offers & Tarifs – here
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs & Cats – yes, on a leash
Picnic tables or catering on-site – yes
Address – Le Bois Lambert, 85540 Moutiers-les-Mauxfaits
GPS Coordinates – 46.49134503856127, -1.4158001331530765
Directions – enter your location

Steam Train rides

Treat the family to a ride through the Vendée countryside on an old steam engine! During the 2h30 voyage of 22km from Mortagne-Sur-Sèvre to Les Herbiers, choo-choo through beautiful Vendée landscapes from a unique vantage point, crossing ancient aqueducts and valleys.

On the return trip, children from 3 - 13 years old live the experience through a game of 24 cards (1 set per family) with brainteasers that lets them learn about the power of steam, train transport of bygone days, and the surroundings through which they are traveling.

• Book the "Train a Vapeur" package (please reserve ahead of time as this is a popular attraction.) Free ages 3 and under.

For a more adult "Grand Express" experience in the authentic atmosphere of the late 19th century (think Orient Express), book a 3hour fine dining experience (12h00 to  15h00). This is also open to children from the age of 3. (Infants and dogs not allowed on the Grand Express tour.)

• Misc. menus/ prices are available. Book your lunch/ride tickets here.

Brochure – Season 2022
Info & tarifs for the "Train a Vapeur" – here
Reduced mobility access – not easy, no wheelchairs
Dogs – yes, on leash on the "Train a Vapeur" only
Note – Free for children under 3y/o (sitting on the knees of an adult). Dog allowed on a leash.
Address – 2Bis Av. de la Gare, 85290 Mortagne-sur-Sèvre
GPS coordinates – 47.011704793864766, -0.9528415380398682
Directions – enter your point of departure

Skateboarding

Skateboarding has been around since 1950, a popular sport among teens that has finally made it to the Olympics in 2021.

If your teenager loves riding and performing tricks using a skateboard, there are a number of parks in the Vendee available.

Google maps to skateboard parks in the Vendée

Futuroscope

Not quite located in the Vendée, but definitely worth mentioning, this awesome theme park focuses on the future, and is driven by the latest 3D and 4D technologies.

In over 40 attractions children will have fun getting a glimpse of the future, train for life on Mars, see space and planet earth through the eyes of French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, the youngest astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA), explore the world of robotics, gravity and so much more.

We highly recommend the "Journey into the Dark" tour in which you'll follow a blind guide with your eyes shut and feel what the world of blind people is actually like. Incredible experience.

The park features top winning attractions among which a magic show you need to see to believe. It offers a terrific day spent en famille filled with unexpected journeys, thrills, shows, and games.

This theme park is great fun at any age.

A visit to Futuroscope is a favorite among Vendéen families! It's an easy daytrip!

Open – 14/3/2022 to 02/01/2023 (do check the calendar)
Info & tarifs – build your package here
Best offers – here 
Reduced mobility access – yes. More info here
Dogs – yes, on leash
Picnic tables or catering on-site – yes
Entrance address – Avenue René Monory, 86360 Chasseneuil-du-Poitou
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.67302308182974, 0.3689614886846375

Atlantic Toboggan

Located in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, this fun and friendly waterpark boasts a 1500m² wave pool and toboggans of dizzying heights.

Families and friends are invited to spend a day frolicking around, to make giant splashes into the pool, to participate in numerous water activities... or to simply go for a leisurely pedalo ride.

Rest, relaxation and fun are included in the ticket price.

PROMO: Online promotion until June 15, 2022 17 EUR/ PERSON (FREE UNDER 3)

The water park features heated swimming pools, 8 toboggan runs, a playground, Jacuzzis, a buoy river and of course, the wave pool!

Open – 25/06/2022 to 31/08/2022 from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Info & tarifs – here 
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – yes, on a leash
Picnic tables or catering on-site – yes
Entrance address – 42 av. des Becs 85270 Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.75877230832258, -2.0245193490249314

O'Gliss Waterpark

Situated near the Vendée coast (25 minutes from Les Sables d'Olonne and 15 minutes from La Tranche sur Mer) the O'Gliss Park features a universe of water with assorted activities.

Purchase a VIP ticket for entrance from 09h00 and enjoy the slides until 10h00 before the park actually opens to the public.

There are 150 VIP Beach tickets available every day the park is open.

There are several options for private areas for you to enjoy and supervised activities for the children. The O'Cayo Island lagoon is especially wonderful for the little ones with a beautiful heated pool (29c). beach, climbing rock, and waterfalls.

The park comprises of many areas in addition to O'Cayo Island and VIP beach. There are also the Sunset Playa (with DJ, tapas & cocktails bar), the Ludo Park (family fun), Exploral'O (wild rivers of over 400 meters with several tracks to explore for different sensations) and DélirSpace (virtual rafting and 12 thrilling slides). 

Open – 25/06/2022 to 04/09/2022
Info & tarifs – here 
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – no
Picnic or catering on-site – yes
Entrance address – Rte de la Tranche sur Mer, 85560 Le Bernard
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.458811418847404, -1.4185451338875494

Cap Vert - Centre aquatique Les Herbiers

This is a swimming pool to suit your athletic and relaxation needs including classes for children to learn how to swim.

Slides indoor and outdoors. There is a large outdoor area with deck chairs, beach volleyball, lagoon, snack bar, playground etc.

Indoors, in addition to a sports pool, there are hot tubs, sauna, hamam, etc...

In short, there are numerous activities to enjoy as a family or for your teenage children to spend summer afternoons.

Open – open year-round but check website for details
Info & tarifs – here 
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – no
Picnic or catering on-site – yes
Entrance address – Rue du Baron Pierre de Coubertin 85500 Les Herbiers
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.86232044140255, -1.019827705240128

Centre aquatique Océanide - Fontenay le Comte

A wonderful swimming center for young and old to enjoy year-round.

From sports, to play, to wellness, the Centre Aquatique Oceanide offers something for everybody.

There is a sports pool, a 5-meter pool, a recreational area with water at 32°C including waterfall, bubble bench and a counter-current swimming lane. there is a 39-meter slide and a paddling pool.

The wellness area includes a spa, hammam and sauna. Classes such as aquabike etc are also offered.

In the summer, an outdoor pool featuring beaches and deckchairs.

Open – year-round indoors and seasonal outdoors
Info & tarifs – here 
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – no
Picnic or catering on-site – no info
Entrance address –Rue du Gaingalet, 85200 Fontenay-le-Comte
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.46082411221441, -0.7814888903501497

Google map to all aquatic centers in the Vendée

Les Moulins Jumeaux du Terrier Marteau

Built in the 18th and 19th centuries, these two beautiful windmills offer an interesting look at the miller trade and the secrets of the windmill. Jérôme, the baker-miller himself, welcomes visitors every afternoon in summer, delighting them with explanation and stories, and demonstrates his craft. Bread, brioches and pastries made from organic wheat grown locally, and baked on site in the wood fired oven.

There is an enclosed park with chickens, pheasants, peacocks, turkeys, geese, goats, sheep, deer… and two donkeys named Eclair and Dubaï.

An excellent visit that pairs learning, tasting, and a petting zoo with the most magnificent panoramic views across the Vendée countryside.

Open – 01/07/2022 to 31/08/2022 14h00 to 19h00; open weekends in September (until 19/09) from 14h00 to 19h00. Guided tours.
Organic bread – available on Fridays from 10h00 to 13h00. During the season you can buy bio flour, bread and brioches. Everything is baked in a wood fired oven
Info & tarifs – here 
Reduced mobility access – please contact 07 85 53 42 52 or contact@les-­moulins-du-terrier-marteau.com
Dogs – no
Baked goods for sale – yes
Address – Rue du Terrier Marteau, 85700 Pouzauges
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.79197764278466, -0.849823037029411

Le Moulin des Gourmands – St Révérend

The Mill of Father Aristide Praud was built in 1848. It ran until 1930 and was restored in 1997. The miller shows his wind-machine in operation and the baker demonstrates the bakehouse with its wood-fired oven.

Enjoy cakes, pancakes, pizza, or the pizza pancake, and other products from the bakery in the park where you can enjoy a picnic in the company of donkeys, and for children from 6 - 12 there is a game of apprentice detectives, a police investigation offered in the adjacent park.

Open – 25/06/2022 to 04/09/2022
Info & tarifs – here  tours by reservation only
Dogs – not in the windmill but allowed on leash in the adjacent park
Picnic tables or catering – yes
Entrance address – Rue René Bazin, 85220 Saint-Révérend
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.69685667696246, -1.8256967536398305

Le Moulin de Rairé – Sallertaine

Built in 1555, this stately windmill is the only one in France that has never stopped spinning since its construction. It is to this day entirely driven by the wind.

The Burgaud family that owns it, are descended from a long line of millers. They work this fascinating machine using the ancient techniques.

Learn all about it in a guided tour of this historic monument of astonishing ingenuity. Specialties sold in the shop include wheat flour and buckwheat (organic), freshly baked pancakes, biscuits, local products.

Open – currently closed due to maintenance (see website for updates)
Info & tarifs – here 
Dogs – no
Picnic tables or catering – yes
Entrance address – Le Raire, 85300 Sallertaine
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.8637530000065, -1.9795815505525338

Le Jardin du Vent – Notre Dame de Monts

In front of a curious mill wearing veils, hides an original garden that offers visitors an art walk, fun and informative … Animated sculptures, wind games, legends and weather indications of surprises punctuate this journey around a compass and a theater.

In July and August workshops “kites” are offered for children.

Open – 01/04/2022 to 30/09/2022
Workshops  for children – schedule
Info & tarifs – here (free visit, paid for workshops)
Reduced mobility access – yes
Dogs – no
Picnic tables or catering – yes (microwave available) Coffee, tea, hot chocolate
Entrance address – 29 bis Rue Gilbert Cesbron, 85690 Notre-Dame-de-Monts
Directions – enter your point of departure
GPS coordinates – 46.83215515764884, -2.134478690615512