Top 10 autumn walks in the Vendée

Posted the 15 November 2022

Leisure & Activities

Outdoor experiences

Whether you are a Sunday walker or hiking enthusiast, you’ll discover some delightful areas along the Vendée’s footpaths. Here is a list of the best autumn walks to enjoy with the family or friends where you will discover the Vendee in a totally different way.

The Vendée’s forest, parks, or garden walks this autumn

1 - La Forêt de Grasla - Brouzils - an unforgettable autumn walk

This forest witnessed the Vendéen wars and is where the famous Refuge de Grasla site is located. It offers a 3.5 km walk through the woodlands, where the fauna and flora are just sublime. The warmth of the autumn sun filters through the thick oak trees, proposing a forest walk that you will always remember.

2 - La Forêt de Mervent full of legends and facts

The Mervent - Vouvant forest, the green lungs of the Vendée, is an ideal place to enjoy a beautiful walk with the family or friends. Along the paths the Melusine Fairy “La Fée Melusine” accompanies you on this interesting walk combining legends and facts. In the heart of a hundred-year-old forest, follow the “Grande balade merventaise”, a pleasant walk which covers 5 km. It takes you from Mervent to the village of Les Loges and starts in front of Mervent’s multi-purpose building.

3 - Forêt Domaniale de Longeville sur Mer, stretching over 1225 hectares

This beautiful pine and holm oak forest covers 1225 hectares and promises some charming autumn walks. It is bordered by the beautiful beaches along the southern coast, with numerous paths through the forest providing access to these magnificent beaches. (From La Plage de Bouil beach to Les Conches beach).

4 - Le Parc Saint Michel in Les Essarts ideal for family walks

On a greener and more informal note, why not explore this 6-hectares park created in 2002 by the Conseil Départemental de la Vendée. It is composed of majestic trees, remnants of the old hedgerows, numerous other plant species added recently, a small water reservoir as well as a wet woodland valley. Ideal for family walks.

5 - Les Jardins de la Cure - Mortagne sur Sèvre – with breathtaking views

The “Jardins de la Cure” offers beautiful views over the valley and the river. It is listed as a “Remarkable site” due to its exceptional architecture and hilltop position on the Sévre Nantaise. The gardens are situated on the outskirts of the town, facing south overlooking the river.

The Vendée’s invigorating seaside and coastal autumnal walks

6 - La Grande Plage - Les Sables d'Olonne – refreshing walks at low tide

On this crescent - shaped 3 km long, fine sandy beach, you can enjoy a refreshing walk at low tide or on the well-known “Remblai” (seafront) when the tide is in. A magnificent bay is just waiting for you to capture some stunning views! So, grab your camera.

7 - La plage de la Paracou - Les Sables d'Olonne – wild and spectacular

This wild stretch of beach on the edge of the sand dunes and the fôret d’Olonne will offer you a walk in the heart of a protected natural environment. A place where surfers are constantly seeking the perfect wave. A place that is both private and spectacular at the same time.

8 - La plage du Veillon - Talmont Saint Hilaire – just amazing

Take a long walk along this superb sandy beach located on the Payré estuary. An opportunity to discover this famous dune listed as a “Remarkable site of the Vendée”. It is simply breathtaking!

9 - La plage de la base nautique - Saint Jean de Monts – as far as the eye can see

This huge expanse of sand is a place that will literally “blow you away” with all its land sailing yachts hurtling in the wind. An invigorating walk awaits you! Don’t forget the 440m long pier that extended into the sea, offering a view as far as the eye can see.

10 - La Grande Plage - Saint Gilles Croix de Vie – perfect for autumn walks

This beautiful fine sandy beach stretches for 3.6 km extended by a linear dune, will without a doubt offer you a beautiful autumnal walk. A pedestrian seafront with various bars and restaurants runs alongside the beach. So why not have a well-deserved gourmet break or a refreshing drink overlooking the sea.