Unusual holiday cottages - weird & wonderful places
Our unusual holiday cottages will offer you the chance to try something very different. What a choice - luxury tree houses perched in lush, verdant forest, themed lodges and cottages, old mills, or even glamping experiences, all right here in the Vendée. So why not check out our selection, each one is as outstanding as the last.
Unusual eco-lodges for holidays in the heart of nature
Terragora Lodges – much more than a weird place to stay
In Les Epesses (in the same region as Le Puy du Fou), "Terragora Lodges" have invented a new universe. The hotel complex focuses on eco-tourism and is set in a natural valley close to the Sèvre Nantaise River. In 19-hectares, the complex boasts weird, shaped lodges. The "Nymphéa" rooms, on stilts, overlook the wetlands and are decorated with silver birch. Sleek lines contrast with the lush natural surroundings… The "Terrier" dome walls are covered with earth, emerging like lunar igloos into the landscape. The "Chrysalide" cocoon rooms are decorated in copper, wood, and zinc, stretching up towards the treetops. Cabins in chestnut wood blend into the forest and overlook the stream meandering between blocks of granite. Three different cabin themes, making very comfortable retreats in touch with nature.
The unusual holiday cottages at the seaside Ferme Marais Girard
The Ferme du Marais Girard is located just 200 m from the seafront. This exceptional estate combines innovative wooden structures, preserved ancient buildings and green areas. Guests at the farm are transported to a completely different world, a world created by the owners with their passion for heritage, conservation, and eco-building. The former barn has been fully renovated, featuring a vast courtyard and modern accommodation. Other attractions include a magnificent drying room and a large greenhouse containing herbs and vegetables. Just a stone's throw away is the natural swimming pool and unusual holiday cottages called the "pontoon villas", with private, outdoor shower.
Tree house accommodation, wooden cabins, and chalets
Try the real tree house experience at Chateau la Forêt 4* campsite
The estate’s 19th century chateau sits at the heart of a 100-year-old oak forest and offers unusual tree house accommodation suspended above the lake. The tree house (which sleeps 6) is perched between three 200-year-old trees, faces west and is accessible via wooden stairs. The campsite has over 50 hectares of land and proposes numerous activities, such as an adventure park with tree top facilities and paintballing. In addition, there are two water sports areas as well as an indoor heated pool, with well-being treatments available for visitors. A 3-hectare lake will delight any fishing enthusiast.
Luxurious wooden houses on stilts at Château Boisniard 5*
The wooden houses blend into the green landscape of the grounds of the château, it is a case of Robin Hood meets Robinson Crusoe. Set on stilts (some 11 m above the ground), they are accessible from ground level. Enjoy relaxing on the private balcony, taking in the stunning views of the flora and fauna within the grounds. Hotel facilities are available during your stay: spa, cookery lessons given by the 1 Michelin Star Chef Valentin Morice from "La Table du Boisniard".
Tree cabins and a romantic tree house for a special break!
In the same forest as O’Fun Park, wooden cabins nestle among the trees at the edge of a lake, and offer the biggest number of adventure activities in the West of France. How about a candle-lit evening away from it all with the one you love? Choose the romantic cabin, which features a stunning round bed, panoramic views, and spa on the terrace...
Unusual accommodation in campsites
Glamping at Le Village de la Guyonnière, a VIP camping experience
La Guyonnière offers a range of unusual "Glamping" accommodation options, including "Safari Lodges" on stilts (for 6-8 people),"Woody Lodges" with 2 or 3 bedrooms, and the FAMILY ZEN. This product offers a luxury, VIP camping experience. These "new generation" lodges, located on the "Les Coteaux" field, can accommodate up to 4 people. These properties offer all the comfort and equipment of a mobile home, but with an attractive wood frame construction and untreated wood furnishings. Each lodge has a private Zen area where guests can relax in the great outdoors as well as a raised private solarium with a panoramic view over the Grand Pré field and the pond.
Gypsy style caravans at Le Bois Joly campsite in Saint Jean de Monts
This 2/4-person caravan boasts a Bohemian atmosphere; made entirely of wood and featuring 2 bedrooms, a fitted kitchen, shower unit and separate toilet. It also has an open-air concrete terrace. Located close to the centre of Saint-Jean-de-Monts and at just 1 km from the beach, Le Bois Joly features an aqua park complete with solarium beach area. As well as a heated, indoor pool and Jacuzzi, a large 20-metre pool with wading pool and 4 water slides.
The Campsite and Lake de la Tricherie*** at Mesnard La Barotière
This campsite is located near the Herbiers in a delightful preserved natural environment and just a few kilometres from the Puy du Fou® and the Cinéscénie. A perfect destination for a family camping holiday.
In 2017, the Pods and Lutins cabins joined the existing accommodation. They have a room and a terrace where you can sunbathe. The cabin with their strange and bewitching exterior forms, are an interesting getaway option!
Les Lodges at Le Paradis campsite****: the original spirit of camping
Le Paradis campsite situated between Jard sur Mer and Les Sables d'Olonne offers the choice between two types of Lodges. The «Coco sweet» lodge: this bungalow, has a unique design, a new concept both functional, playful, cosy and fully equipped (capacity: 4 people - 2 bedrooms - no toilets). By choosing the «Maori» lodge you will rediscover the original spirit of camping, in direct contact with nature, but with all the comforts as well... More than just windows, the openings of the Maori face the sky, the treetops, and the stars! (Capacity: 4 people - 2 bedrooms - no bathrooms).
Fun eco-friendly lodges at Domaine de l'Oiselière Campsite **** in Chauché
There are two original eco-lodges with mezzanine. They have been constructed from canvas and wood, but do not have bathroom facilities. In addition, there are amusing Coco Lodges and Cottages which are renovated wooden properties of 45m². The campsite also offers top of the range, innovative services, in a preserved natural environment. The campsite also boasts a 4,000 m2 play area, where children can have fun in the undulating, wooded landscape. There is also a heated swimming and guests can relax on sun loungers among the plants around the edge of the pool.
An ecolodge tent in La Flocellière - Sèvremont
Come and stay in an ecolodge tent and enjoy the benefits of glamping. This term, which combines "glamour" and "camping", combines luxury and nature, comfort and respect for the environment, and plays the atypical card by offering accommodation off the beaten track without wifi or electricity!
Yurts and gypsy caravans - odd places to stay
Les roulottes de Saint Sulpice, a wooden caravan experience
Why not spend the night in a caravan equipped for 4 people just 40 minutes from the Puy du Fou? The caravan has a living area, 2 single bedrooms and a private bathroom with a shower. A kitchenette is equipped with hotplates and a fridge. You can also relax on the furnished terrace or enjoy an evening barbecue in this charming verdant setting. Or if you fancy a leisurely stroll the quaint village of Bazoges-en-Pareds, just 9km away.
Unusual Gyspy Caravans - Sainte Flaive des Loups
The Gypsy Caravans are totally refurbished and fully equipped, situated on a closed property of 1000 m². The owner's swimming pool (5x10m) is available from June to September. During the 2020 season, the owners offered activities they called “THE VISIT OF OUR BEE-HIVE and THE HARVEST OF OUR HONEY with PASCAL. This activity is free.
Yurts in the Vendée’s bocage, an unusual holiday destination - Bazoges en Pareds
At just 30 minutes from the Puy du Fou®, Joël and Gaëtane welcome you to their Mongolian yurt. If you are looking for a change of scenery and an unusual experience you will not be disappointed. These 3 yurts can accommodate from 1 to 6 people. During good weather you can enjoy a meal on the terrace before a dip in the pool.
Rêves en Yourte, insolite accommodation where unforgettable dreams become reality
If you are looking for an unusual get away from it all holiday destination, why not try the Rêves en Yourte, it may just be the place for you. This Mongolian yurt sits in a large garden, surrounded with lots of beautiful flowers and wooded area. The pool has unrestricted access where you can enjoy hot-oil massages. Alternatively, the many walking paths will enable you to discover the stunning countryside of the Bocage. The yurt is available from the spring right through to the autumn. Suitable for couples or a family getaway.
Le Domaine du Vigneau, unusual types of accommodation for a total nature immersion
Set in several hectares Le Domaine du Vigneau offers 5 unusual types of accommodation : a Yurt, safari tent or lodge, a wigwam, a bivouac, or tent pitch. The owners share their passion for nature and animals, with guests. You will encounter the donkeys, alpacas, goats, hens, geese... as well as other wild animals.
The Domaine is located 15 minutes from O'Fun and O' Gliss Park, and just 30 minutes from the coast or 45 minutes from the Puy du Fou.
Other weird places to stay and try: the yurts de la Fabrique
La Fabrique offers two yurts of 27 m² that can accommodate up to 6 people each and a yurt of 20 m² that can accommodate 3 to 4 people. A little piece of paradise in the heart of the Vendée, calm and exotic. An ecological unusual holiday destination that will enchant you.
Unusual holiday destinations – themed gites, cottages, and b&b
L’Un et l’Hôte Guest house, a former Washhouse tastefully decorated
L’Un et l’Hôte stands on the border of Vendée, Maine et Loire and Deux-Sèvres. Open all year round, it is situated in the former Saint Joseph washhouse in Saint Laurent sur Sèvre. Just 10 minutes from Le Puy du Fou®, the building has been tastefully renovated and now features three guest rooms in an idyllic setting on the banks of the Sèvre.
A little bit of history: There is one mill every 300 metres in Saint Laurent sur Sèvre. Some, like the Bodet mill, were in operation until the 20th century. Bought in 1867, this mill was converted into the Saint Joseph washhouse. “L'Un et l'Hôte” is a B&B created in part of the former washhouse and listed as “Bâtiments de France” building. The 3 rooms have been tastefully decorated. Guests have full access to the heated outdoor pool.
Le Chromatic, a modern style cottage designed by famous stylists and architects
Le Chromatic was designed by architects Philippe Rizzotti and Daya Bakker. It is an unusual building with a mixture of wood, metal and glass. Big names in design have also styled this cottage: Michel Ducaroy, Emile Baumann, Ilmari Tapio-vaara... The owners converted the former stables into an unusual self-catering property where the charm of the stonework combines with pure, contemporary lines. The décor is inspired by the work of leading, fashionable designers, but also features recycled furniture. The architecture is resolutely modern with its metal structure, large, glazed surfaces, and polished concrete flooring. The soft touch in the interiors comes from birch wood and stonework.
Le Chromatic can accommodate up to 12 people. It offers top of the range accommodation in the Vendée, with a 10m in & out swimming pool heated to 29°C all year round, integrated into the 70m2 lounge. A secluded property of 5,000 m2 set in the open countryside, close to the sea, where you can live according to the seasons.
A weird place to stay: "Le Bistrot des Amis" unusual cottage at Pouzauges (Gîtes de France 4 épis)
Le Bistrot des Amis a very unusual landmark, at just a 30-minute drive from Puy du Fou®. In this former cabinetmaker’s workshop, wood, zinc, red Vichy fabrics rub shoulders for an original and stylish atmosphere! An authentic immersion into a 19th century bistrot.
Domaine de la Boulaie : an unusual innovative accommodation concept
For an unusual holiday destination, the story begins like this. Once upon a time.... there were enchanting lodges…. set in the heart of a 30-hectare hundred-year-old, lush natural park. Here, Véronique and Christophe Payré imagined and created a timeless village, made up of 14 lodges.
The Domaine de la Boulaie is an unusual and innovative accommodation concept. Each wooden lodge has its very own theme…. that of fairy tales. Sleep in the refuge called “ Peau d'Ane”(Donkey skin), succumb to Prince Charming, discover the Witch’s den or even the Ogre’s lair. A magical fairy tale world that the entire family will adore!
Le Moulin de la Vallée de la Roche 5* - a delightfully unusual place to stay at Tiffauges
Philippe and Catherine Maindron have transformed this old water mill, abandoned for years into a gite or a luxury bed and breakfast... Inside, a mixture of old stone and a contemporary style produces ultramodern touches. New York City is now the theme of the mill. A monumental fresco of Times Square adorns the industrial metal staircase... In the bridal suite, the king-sized round bed has found its proper place...
Outside this unusual cottage, is a little corner of paradise. Nature has been very generous... a pleasant river flows peacefully ... A small Roman bridge crossing over it.… and a wooded hill provides a charming backdrop.