When you walk along the Vendée coasts, you can see the shadow of an offshore island. It is Noirmoutier, territory inhabited for centuries. Its pleasant climate, favorable to agriculture, has made it an attractive place for its inhabitants, who have often had to repel the attacks of foreign pirates and vessels driven by covetousness. The resplendent landscapes follow one another in Noirmoutier : vast golden beaches with immense dunes, verdant woods to the salt marshes, the island proposes a natural diversity of which it took advantage.
Formerly the only commune in the territory, Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile serves as the capital. It is indeed the center of the activities as well as the most populated city of the island. Its traditional Vendean houses and its medieval castle promise you a complete change of scenery in a family atmosphere. In August, the town welcomes the festival of Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile Festival since 1993. With a mainly theatrical program, this cultural event makes it possible for everyone to enjoy unique performances by renowned troops. The spectacles, some of which are offered in free access, take place on three magnificent sites of the commune : the court of the Castle, the court Saint-Philibert and the cultural center Les Salorges.
The town of Barbâtre is, literally, at the gates of the island. It is indeed via this municipality of the south of Noirmoutier that the two accesses to the continent are found. On the one hand, the legendary passage of Gois, submersible pavement, appears several times a day at low tide. On the other hand, a bridge built in 1971 also makes it easy to reach Noirmoutier from the Vendée coast. Once in Barbâtre, it is difficult to leave. Its dynamism, its vibrant atmosphere and the conviviality of its inhabitants will make you want to stay among them. It is also the perfect place to enjoy the pleasures of the ocean. On its beautiful sandy beach, you will find two boating schools open to all, no matter your level. Sel Ton Char specializes in sand yachting, this three-wheeled vehicle powered by a sail. Discipline unrecognized, it is however rather easy to access and is practiced on the beach. In Mouvnkite, you test your limits on boards of kitesurfing! Come take speed on the surf and alternate jumps and slides in this unique discipline.
Surrounded by salt marshes, the Epine is a small town of 1700 inhabitants where it is good to live. Its main attraction is Océanile, an aquatic complex combining relaxation and leisure. Let yourself be tempted by its attractions and giant slides for unique sensations. Adrenaline guaranteed ! Family fun in the indoor or outdoor pools and you end the day in the jacuzzi for a wellness session. Finally, a little detour by the Guerinière is never too much. This village of traditions is famous for the development of several motor activities of the island : oyster farming, potato growing and salt harvesting are still practiced on the fertile lands of the municipality. Since 1973, La Guérinière has the Museum of Traditions of the Island of Noirmoutier, where the daily life of the islanders of the past is proudly displayed through a collection of antiques and period costumes.