La Vendée

La Vendée in brief

If you're looking for relaxation, well-being and tranquility, the département of Vendée is the ideal place to recharge your batteries. The three thalassotherapy centres offer the best sea treatments, from seaweed baths to expert massages. People come from all over to ride the waves of Vendée's shore. Surfers come for the roller waves while canoeing enthusiasts enjoy the swell. Vendée also boasts 140km (87 miles) of fine sandy beaches. Saint Jean de Monts is known as "the largest sand pit on the west coast". In addition to its 8km (5 mile) stretch of beach, the resort offers numerous attractions and entertainment for children. The charming resort of Saint Gilles Croix de Vie is the oldest port in Vendée. The old quarters dates back to Antiquity. Hiking paths, nestled between dunes, seas and forests, lead directly to La Tranche sur Mer, in the south of Vendée.