Top Tourist Attractions in the Vendée
The Local Area
Gites les Chaffauds are located in the north of the Vendée, and has teamed up with a local Tourism Initiative called Vendée Bocage. This aims to raise awareness of all of the many activities on offer in this part of the Vendée. And there are many of them…. whether you like exploring medieval castles, visiting working windmills, wandering around châteaux and their gardens or strolling along country lanes through forests, there is something for everyone!
Click on the image below to see a larger version of the map of local attractions. We have added a pointer so that you can see where they are in relation to Gîtes Les Chaffauds.
Top Tourist Attractions
Grand Parc du Puy du Fou
Welcome to the Puy du Fou - a magical and historical theme park located in the north of the Vendée. Here, you'll discover award-winning live shows and attractions that will take you on a journey through time and immerse you in the history of France. From medieval jousting tournaments to Viking battles and a stunning night time light show, you'll be transported back in time to experience the wonders of the past. It's a unique and unforgettable experience that you won't want to miss!
Leisure base at the Lac de Touchegray
The beautiful Lac de Touchegray is located in the heart of Vendee. This stunning lake offers an array of activities for visitors of all ages during the summer months, making it the perfect destination for families. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and even take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake. The surrounding scenery is breath-taking, and with plenty of picnic areas and BBQ facilities, you can easily make a day of it with your family and friends. The lake is well-maintained, and there are lifeguards on duty in the summer, ensuring that everyone can have fun in a safe and secure environment.
Lac de la Vouraie - Le Sentier d'Amanéa
The Sentier d'Amanea is a beautiful walking trail located near to Bournezeau. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.
The Sentier d'Amanea offers stunning views of the Vendée countryside. The trail winds through fields, forests, and marshes, providing walkers with breathtaking views at every turn.
The trail is relatively easy to walk, with some gentle slopes and uneven terrain. The entire walk takes around 2 hours to complete and walking shoes are advised, as some parts of the trail are gravelled.Logis de la Chabotterie
The charming Logis de la Chabotterie is located to the north of La Roche sur Yon and this historic site offers a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. As you explore the elegant manor house, you'll discover fascinating exhibitions and displays that tell the story of the site's illustrious past during the Vendée War. The gardens are also a highlight, with their serene ambiance and stunning floral displays. You will love the interactive experiences on offer, from costumed tours to craft workshops and games for the children. The site is well-maintained, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, making it a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
The Canals of the Marais Poitevin
The enchanting Marais Poitevin - also known as the Green Venice – is a unique and picturesque wetland region located in the south of the Vendée and beyond! Here, you'll discover a stunning natural environment, filled with charming waterways and abundant wildlife. You can explore the wetlands by boat, take a bike ride along the quiet lanes, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the canals. There are plenty of picnic areas and quaint cafes where you can relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. The towns of Coulon and Maillezais are perfect to explore, with canals and ruined abbeys.
Chemin de Fer de la Vendée - Mortagne-sur-Sèvre
For steam train enthusiast - the Train à Vapeur - takes you on a journey through time and the stunning French countryside. The train departs from the charming town of Mortagne sur Sevre and travels through picturesque villages and rolling hills. As you sit back and relax in the vintage carriages, you'll feel as if you've stepped back in time to a bygone era. Perfect for families, and also lovers of the ‘Orient Express’ experience, as you can book a meal in the restored restaurant carriage of one of the steam trains. Make sure that you book in advance, as this is a popular attraction.
Natur'Zoo in the Mervent Forest
The Natur'Zoo is a unique animal park located in the heart of the Mervent forest. Here, you'll discover a collection of over 500 animals, from big cats to adorable otters and meerkats. You can get up close and personal with the animals, as you explore the park's well-maintained enclosures and interactive exhibits. You can take part at feeding time for the animals or attend educational shows and workshops. There are plenty of picnic areas and a cafe where you can enjoy a meal or snack, and the park is accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Parc Oriental de Maulévrier
Parc Oriental de Maulevrier is a stunning Japanese-inspired garden located in Maulevrier, just to the north of the Vendée. This garden is one of the most beautiful and unique parks in France, and it's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, you'll find over 3000 varieties of plants, including rare species from Japan and China. You can stroll through the peaceful gardens, cross the tranquil streams, and admire the exquisite sculptures and architecture surrounding the central lake. You can attend a traditional tea ceremony and explore the garden's interactive exhibits.
Tépacap Vendée
TepaCap Vendee is the ultimate adventure park for thrill-seekers of all ages! Located in Mesnard-la-Barotiere, this park offers a range of exhilarating activities that will challenge your skills, push your limits, and leave you with unforgettable memories. From zip-lining and tree-top adventures to paintball and archery, there's something for everyone at TepaCap Vendee. For families there is a range of activities - from the mini-golf to the bouncy castles, and the park's many playgrounds. Children can test their bravery on the climbing walls, while adults can take a relaxing stroll around the beautiful park.
Château de Tiffauges
The magnificent Chateau de Tiffauges is an enchanting castle located in the north of Vendee. This medieval fortress, also known as the "Castle of Bluebeard," is a must-visit destination for history buffs and families alike. Here, you'll step back in time to the 15th century and discover the fascinating history of the castle and its former inhabitants. You can explore the castle's various towers, ramparts, and dungeons, and get up close to its many artifacts and displays. During the day you can see jousting demonstrations and falconry displays. Children can participate in the castle's treasure hunt, dress up in medieval costumes, and attend interactive workshops. The castle also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including medieval banquets, festivals, and concerts.
A day trip to Nantes
The vibrant city of Nantes has so many incredible attractions to explore! Start by taking a stroll through the charming old town, where you can admire the beautiful architecture, quaint cafes, and vibrant street art. Then, head to the stunning Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne, a historic castle that now houses a fascinating museum dedicated to the city's history. Next, visit the famous Les Machines de l'île, a unique experience where you can see giant mechanical animals roam around the buildings, including a 12-meter tall elephant that you can even ride! There are many parks and green spaces in the city, including the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden with over 10,000 plant species, and the Parc de la Beaujoire, a sprawling park with a range of outdoor activities.
Château de Mesmin
The charming Château de Mesmin is located on the border of the Vendee and Deux-Sevres. This historic castle is a must-visit destination for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and families alike. Here, you can explore the castle grounds, including the medieval keep and gardens. You'll also learn about the castle's fascinating history, dating back to the 12th century, and the many illustrious figures who have passed through its halls. There are a range of activities on offer, including guided tours, horseback riding, and picnicking in the castle gardens. Children will love the castle's treasure hunt, where they can search for hidden clues and solve puzzles to uncover the castle's secrets. They can also dress up in medieval costumes and attend interactive workshops to learn about life in the Middle Ages. The castle hosts a range of events throughout the year, including medieval festivals, concerts, and wine tastings.
A day trip to La Rochelle
The charming coastal city of La Rochelle is a must see! This historic port town offers visitors a range of exciting activities and sights to explore. Stroll through the picturesque Old Port, where you can watch colourful fishing boats and yachts bobbing on the water while enjoying a delicious local seafood meal. From there, take a walk through the historic town centre, where you can admire the beautifully preserved architecture of the medieval buildings, including the iconic towers that once guarded the port. For a cultural experience, head to the Musée Maritime, where you can learn about the city's rich maritime history. Families with children will love the nearby aquarium, which houses a variety of marine life from the Atlantic Ocean, including sharks, sea turtles, and colourful tropical fish. In the evening, the city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars and clubs offering everything from live music to comedy shows
The Haras in La Roche sur Yon
The Haras in La Roche sur Yon is perfect for horse-lovers. Here you can experience the beauty and elegance of horses up close. You'll be amazed by the stunning facilities, with beautifully maintained stables and spacious training arenas. You can watch the graceful horses being trained by skilled riders or take a tour of the facilities to learn more about the history and traditions of horsemanship. There's plenty to keep the whole family entertained, with pony rides and interactive exhibits to delight the kids. If you visit in the afternoon, you may get to see a horse show, where you can marvel at the incredible skills of the riders and their majestic steeds.
The Medieval Tower at Vouvant
Vouvant is a ‘Petit Cité de caractere’ located near to the Mervent forest. This picturesque medieval town, nestled in the beautiful countryside, is the perfect destination for a family-friendly day trip. Start by wandering the cobbled streets and admiring the traditional architecture of the town's historic buildings, including the impressive Romanesque church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption. From there, take a leisurely stroll around the ancient ramparts that encircle the town, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Families with children will love the nearby Forest of Mervent-Vouvant, where you can hike, bike, or even go horseback riding along the many trails. The forest also boasts a range of exciting outdoor activities, including zip-lining, high ropes courses, and a treetop adventure park. For a taste of local flavour, stop by one of the many charming cafes or restaurants in the town, serving up delicious traditional Vendean cuisine.
Place de Napoleon in La Roche sur Yon
La Roche-sur-Yon, the capital city of the Vendée, has a rich history and plenty of activities to offer visitors of all ages. You can start by taking a walk around the Place Napoléon, the city's main square, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafés. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Musée de la Roche-sur-Yon, which showcases the history and culture of the city and the Vendée region. For nature lovers, the Parc des Oudairies offers a beautiful green space for picnics, sports, and relaxation. Don’t forget to visit the market halls in the morning where you will find lots of local produce and tasty things to eat!
Beaches of the Vendée
You will be spoilt for choice if you like to visit the beach.
Here in The Vendée there are miles of sandy beaches, with great spots for surfing, body boarding and rock pooling, along with wide stretches of sand to relax or play games. Some of the coast has a ‘Jurassic Coast’ feel about it, as there are limestone pavements stretching out into the sea and you can often find fossils on the beach.
The seaside towns of La Tranche and La Faute have entertainment laid on throughout the summer months, and further up the coast at Port Bourgenay, you will find weekly craft markets around the harbour and medieval festivals in Talmont St Hilaire. The bustling sea port of Les Sables d’Olonne makes a great day out - with miles of sandy beaches, a long promenade for walks, weekly markets, harbour side restaurants selling the ‘catch of the day’ and lots of fetes and festivals.
Our reservations are managed by
Annette Khan (EI)
Vendée Holiday Cottages
Gîtes Les Chaffauds, 18 rue Ecoliers, 85110 Sainte Cécile, France
Tel: 00 33 (0)2 51 28 43 98
Mobile: 00 33 (0)6 43 37 87 74
WhatsApp: 00 33 (0)6 43 37 87 74
Siret: 530 1149 66 00019