The wild coasts of the Atlantic, the long sandy beaches, the towns and villages with an irreducible charm... The reputation of the Vendée is well known. This department of the Pays de la Loire has become a favorite destination for French and foreign tourists. Between nature and idleness, there is something for everyone in the Vendée!
The first must-see is La Roche-sur-Yon, the department's capital since its foundation. This ancient village of 650 inhabitants underwent a real metamorphosis when, on May 25, 1804, Napoleon declared that the prefecture of the Vendée would be transferred there. It is then a modern city which is drawn on the model of a pentagon. Today, the influence of its illustrious founder can still be seen in its monuments. Facing the famous Place Napoléon, the central point of the city, the Saint-Louis Church, commissioned by the emperor in 1808, follows the architectural aesthetics of the great Roman monuments. This neoclassical architecture has six columns and two pilasters on its imposing façade, making it a popular stop for art lovers. More unusual, the Chocolate Museum of La Roche-sur-Yon takes you on a journey through time to learn more about cocoa beans and their many variations. Follow a gourmet path punctuated by tastings to discover the origins of chocolate in a playful way. You will also be able to observe the work of the chocolate makers, who will make small delicacies with ancestral recipes before your eyes.
Want to go for a walk along the Côte de Lumière? Go to Les Sables d'Olonne! This seaside resort is famous for its paths along the coast and its charming fine sand beaches. It is also a famous place for water sports enthusiasts, especially for sailing. Les Sables d'Olonne is indeed the starting point of the Vendée Globe, a unique single-handed sailing race whose fame goes beyond our borders. For history buffs, a little detour to the Museum of Popular Traditions will not disappoint you. Reconstructions of daily life at the beginning of the 20th century, exhibitions of crafts and costumes... An attractive program that will take you to the heart of the life of the people of Sablais one hundred years ago.
Finally, you can't go to the Vendée without visiting the Island of Noirmoutier. This treasure of the Atlantic coast is the ideal place for nature lovers. Admire the salt marshes and sand dunes that make up this remarkable landscape. Make a detour to the Château de Noirmoutier, a medieval military architecture dating from the 12th century, where you will find a museum retracing the origins of the island through a rich collection.
