Five top picks when visiting the Vendée this autumn
Ah, the wonderful smells of the forest and fresh scents of autumn... As the summer draws to a close, we enter a season that many people love. Not only are the beautiful autumnal colours stunning, but it’s also another very different way to see the Vendée. This article takes you on a journey to discover our 5 most attractive places to visit here in the Vendée during the autumn season.
❤️. Set sail and explore Ile d'Yeu: a haven of tranquillity on the horizon
Are there any sailors among you? If so why not, take a boat trip with either La Compagnie Vendéenne or Yeu Continent and head for the Ile d'Yeu. In the early autumn, the island is a fabulous place to catch the last rays of sunshine. It's much quieter out of season, but just as quaint and authentic. Ile d ’Yeu is bound to meet up to your expectations for getting out and about exploring nature, off the beaten track. So, what's our advice for autumn? Hire a bike and cycle around the island. It’s not only good for you but it will also allow you to take some wonderful photos... The island's already magnificent scenery is made even more stunning by autumn colours.
❤️. Take a break in the Marais Breton Vendéen
‘Le Marô’ (a wetland covering two counties, the Vendée and the Loire-Atlantique, with 18 communities and more than 36,000 hectares) is magnificent in the autumn! In the north-west of the Vendée, discover a landscape that you'll seldom see elsewhere: wet meadows, canals and polders make up the Marais. Take a break in this unique area and discover a rich heritage and authentic people. In the autumn, the Marais Breton Vendéen takes on beautiful warm colours as the sun rises and sets. This autumn, discover the must-see ‘ Route du Sel “ in Sallertaine and the ” Daviaud ’ in Notre Dame de Monts.
❤️. The Golden hour at Lac du Jaunay – when sunlight turns magical
Why not head for the Pays des Achards, where the Lac du Jaunay is a little corner of the Vendée well worth the trip. This autumn, its 114 hectares of countryside will be turning orange, red and burgundy. It's a beautiful sight during the ‘Golden Hour’ (The last hour before sunset and the first hour after sunrise)! This natural area is the perfect place to take a refreshing break in the forest, with a host of activities on offer: canoeing, fishing, cycling, wildlife watching... A perfect cocktail for a refreshing family outing.
❤️. Slow the pace right down and travel back in time at the Puy du Fou
Autumn reveals an enchanting side to the Puy du Fou. Out of season, the park takes on a more peaceful and pleasant atmosphere, offering visitors a more personal experience. Autumn also reveals the unspoilt nature of the park, with the Val de la Marienne, for example, where the shimmering colours of the leaves blend with the remains of the past. One of this season's must-sees is ‘La Frairie de la Toussaint’, the latest Puy du Fou show, and available only from 19 October to 2 November 2024.
❤️. Try the ‘ice-surf’ duo in Les Sables d’Olonne
The Vendée is well known for its surfing spots. In autumn, head for the town of the Vendée Globe and its Plage de Tanchet. The weather is still good in early October and conditions are ideal. So, if you've got the boards and the wetsuits? Then “Off you go”! And if you don't have a surfboard? Well then just head to Olona Surf Club where you can also try a surf lesson with the family or friends - it’s a great way to have fun together. Once the session is over, and if the weather is still good, finish the day off at Gelatoria Antoine, in La Chaume . Here you can relax and recharge your batteries. It's all a question of timing: last waves and last scoops of ice cream before the temperatures start to change.
And if you're feeling the cold, why not replace your ice cream with a hot chocolate in one of Les Sables many cafés!
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