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Discovering Les Sables d'Olonne

1 day trip

Why fly to the Vendée if not to enjoy the long sandy stretches and sumptuous landscapes that characterise this department and give it its charm.
Because this territory is full of surprises... Get off the beaten track, discover the thousand and one wonders of this land where man has always cohabited with the four elements.
Today we take you to Les Sables d'Olonne.

Known worldwide thanks to the famous Vendée Globe race, this seaside resort has managed to preserve its authentic character over the years, thanks in particular to its fishing activity.
For this experience, we have planned a day that you will not forget. Between discovery and idleness, we have concocted the perfect combination for a successful day.

Practical information :

It takes about 50 minutes to drive to Les Sables-d'Olonne.
We advise you to leave early to avoid traffic jams (you are not the only one who wants to visit this seaside town).

What to bring :

A pair of trainers
A bottle of water
Your wallet
A cap
Sunscreen
Your swimming costume

A little tip :

In high season it is sometimes difficult to find a parking space in Les Sables-d'Olonne. You can bring your bikes on a bike rack (or rent one at the campsite). This way you can park your bike away from the town and get to the town centre by the cycle paths.

You'll probably save time by using the cycle paths rather than trying to find a place to park.
Bicycles will also allow you to get around easily throughout the day.

Start by visiting the Vendée Globe city

See you in Port Olonna. This is where the Vendée Globe racers start from.
Stroll along the quays and admire the boats.

What about visiting the oldest district of Les Sables?

The Chaume district is on the other side of the channel. It's a good thing the pier is at the port.
The maritime shuttle runs every day from 7am to 4am and the crossing takes 3 minutes.
Once there, wander through the narrow streets where the houses are mixed with fishermen's houses.
Head for the Prieuré Saint Nicolas. This building stands out for its construction. It is located on a rock overlooking the ocean. You will enjoy an exceptional panorama.
The Priory is open every day.

Feeling hungry?

On the harbour, you will find delicious restaurants and bars.
We recommend the Quai des Saveurs.
The chef offers a delicious cuisine.
Let yourself be transported into his world and make your taste buds tingle while keeping an eye on the boats in the port.
The chefs work exclusively with local products.

After having regained strength, we head for Penotte Island.

It is not an island as such, but rather a neighbourhood.
This entirely pedestrianised district.

Since 1997, the artist Danièle Arnaud-Aubin has been creating magnificent frescoes from shells in these small streets.
The area is not very large, but it is well worth a visit.

Continue your walk towards the city centre and its cobbled streets.
To accompany your stroll, head for "Pétales de Roses". This artisanal ice cream shop offers delicious flavours to refresh you.
It is one of the best ice cream parlours in the city.
All around you, you can go into the small artisan shops. You will certainly find a few favourites to take home.
Between two shops, some old villas will remind you of the typical architecture of the seaside.

After such a day, it's time for a swim

Head for the Grande Plage for a refreshing swim.
Facing south, this large beach offers exceptional sunshine.
There is plenty of room to put your towels down.
While some people are reading or making sandcastles, you can enjoy a pleasant swim. Its gentle slope guarantees a safe bath.

After drying off in the sun, it's time to return to the Sol à Gogo campsite for the evening.
It's clear that you won't forget your visit to this charming town.