5 good reasons to come to the Vendée during an Indian summer
With sunny Indian summers and mild October weather, what better time to discover the Vendée? Far from the summer crowds, prolong your trip and recharge your batteries! It’s as if you have the Vendée all to yourselves!
1. For its exceptional natural environments – a pure delight
If you love being in the heart of nature, come and discover the outstanding natural site of the Baie de l’Aiguillon, with its immense mudflat and salt meadows (known locally as “mizottes”). A veritable paradise for birds. It is ranked as one of the most important, national, and international stopovers for migratory birds between Europe and Africa. The bay is also listed as a wintering ground. Here, you will be able to admire the numerous birds … To give you an idea of numbers there are over 300 different species. So, welcome to the migratory bird spectacle! Numerous outings and events are organised here all year round, so you can truly enjoy the magic of this fascinating world.
P.S. - Remember to bring your binoculars so that you can get a closer look at the birds. You’re in for a real treat!
2. For its bike rides along the Vendée Vélo cycle route
The best way to discover the Vendée and appreciate its charm is certainly with your bike! So before setting off, don’t forget to bring your bike with you or alternatively rent one directly from one of the many bike hire companies. There are several bike routes which will enable you to explore the Vendée in all its aspects: the Ile d’Yeu à Vélo, the well-known Vélodyssée cycle route or even the routes through the Mervent-Vouvant forest, are just a few examples. The Vendée also offers some great walks to discover its natural and cultural, along secure signposted trails.
Check out the "Tour de la Vendée à Vélo" ! This new 20-stage cycle route enables you to explore the Vendée as you pedal along. So, on your marks, get set and go to cycle round the Vendée!
3. For its waterside aperitif times, a truly relaxing experience
The Vendée is full of little corners of paradise where you can relax with your feet in the water while enjoying an aperitif. Here’s a sneak preview of one of our favourite spots to try out during your trip to the Vendée!
It’s La Cabane! You will certainly fall under the charm of this delightful oyster bar nestling in the heart of the Brem sur Mer salt marshes! Here you can enjoy plates of oysters and other seafood, washed down with a glass of local white wine.
4. For gathering shellfish an excellent family activity
During the period of high tides, the shores of the Vendée become more exposed, creating the perfect setting for gathering shellfish with the whole family. As the sea retreats at low tide, it makes way for a vast playground perfect for a family outing. Head for the island of Noirmoutier, also known as l’île au Mimosas, to unearth some of the ocean’s hidden treasures. Equipped with your shovel, rack, and bucket, set off in search of the shellfish buried deep in the sand or under rocks. You may find cockles, clams, mussels, small crabs and even shrimps. Nature and shellfish lovers will thoroughly enjoy this experience. It’s the perfect way to get some fresh sea air!
The high tide times in autumn; check the “weather and tide times” page for a successful fishing trip!
5. For its Fiefs Vendeen wine routes and distinctive wines
Calling all wine lovers! Discover the wine routes and visit the vineyards of the Vendean wines! Take the route des Fiefs Vendéens through the vineyards of Brem sur mer , Chantonnay, Mareuil, Pissotte and Vix. So, just push open the cellar doors to discover age-old skills and meet dedicated wine growers, keen to share their trade with you.
An idea for an unusual outing: the Mourat winery offers you the chance to visit the estate by bike or electric Mehari for an educational and interesting tour! What’s more you’ll get a breathtaking view of the vineyards!
P.S - Early October marks the end of the harvest period in the Vendée. As a result, some wine growers may be less available for visits and tastings. Don't hesitate to contact them to check their availability.
If you're visiting the Vendée in November, be sure to check out the wine growers' annual event, "La journée des vignerons", which is well worth a visit! Wine producers across the region open their vineyards to visitors so that they can discover or rediscover their trade.