What to see on Noirmoutier Island in 24 hours

Once we’ve arrived on Noirmoutier island otherwise known as “Ile aux Mimosas” (due to the quantity of Mimosa, which grows naturally throughout the island), a short stop is necessary at the Oyster Port called Bonhomme near La Guérinière. Fresh oysters can be sampled and washed down with a glass of good wine.    

Then continuing on toward Noirmoutier en l'Ile to discover the Medieval castle, its pedestrian streets and the everyday way of life of the locals. On market days, we’ll discover the vibrant stalls with freshly caught fish just arrived off the fishing boats, encounter the “ladies of the fields” the unique potatoes well known to Noirmoutier such as Lady Christl', la Charlotte or la Bonnotte. The real stars of Noirmoutier island !  And why not be tempted by the homemade biscuits from Les Petits Cagniotes. 

Next stop is the Jacobsen Hotel an 18th century mansion opened in 2019, which bears witness to a maritime heritage and presents evidence of the important influence that the sea has had on the island of Noirmoutier.

It’s time for lunch, so we’ll try out one of the many delightful restaurants at Noirmoutier en l’Ile, if possible, on the terrace so that we can soak up the local atmosphere and the sea air. Then, preferring the bicycle to the car we set off to explore this picturesque island. Le Bois de la Chaise, le village du Vieil, the Port de l’Herbaudière, le Bois des Eloux, the salt marshes...taking our time as we pedal along to discover so many distinctive places.  

In the afternoon, enjoy a good book on one of the many beautiful beaches on this French island such as la plage des Dames with its famous beach huts, l’Anse rouge beach or even la plage des Sableaux. With a bit of luck the Abergel family ice cream van will stop not too far away, that way everyone can have a treat!