campsite tips for enjoying the Vendée
Visit the wind garden with your family at Notre-Dame-de-Monts
As well as the well-known must-see sites, the Vendée is also full of little extras to discover from your campsite: unusual activities, original visits, good local addresses and experiences that will make your vacation even more unique. On this page, you’ll find our ideas and tips for making the most of your stay in the Vendée, with a little off the beaten track.
A few kilometers from Les Amiaux campsite in Notre-Dame-de-Monts, discover the Wind Garden, an original tour on the theme of nature and wind that will appeal to the whole family.
At the foot of a singular windmill, roofless but topped with sails, stroll through an unusual garden dotted with animated sculptures, wind games, legends and meteorological indications guided by a large wind rose.
Artists have brought this unique place to life, creating poetic works in which the wind animates sound and movement.
For the more inquisitive, a game booklet is available at reception: riddles, charades, anagrams and fun challenges accompany the trail and reveal the secrets of Ventouse, a wind once well known to the ancients. An original activity that combines nature awareness, cultural discovery and family fun.
👉 To plan your visit and check opening times, visit the official Jardin du Vent website.
Canoe the salt route at Sallertaine
From your campsite in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, treat yourself to a change of scenery in the heart of the Breton marshes of the Vendée. In Sallertaine, the Route du Sel invites young and old alike to discover the region’s unspoilt landscapes on a canoe trip or guided hike. It’s the perfect opportunity to admire the local flora and fauna in an exceptional natural setting.
Rent your canoe by the hour, half-day or day, and cruise at your own pace along the étiers and canals. Take the time to observe nature, stop off at the Rairé mill for a visit punctuated by a pancake break, or settle in for a picnic by the water.
To make the ride even more memorable, opt for a guided canoe tour. Sail along the ancient shores of Sallertaine, explore the Châteauneuf marshes, or enjoy a magical candlelit dinner in the heart of nature. Early risers can even set off at sunrise and enjoy a breakfast by the water’s edge as the sun rises.
👉 Canoe rentals and hikes are available from age 3, making it a great outing idea for the whole family. For more information, visit the official website: www.laroutedusel.com
Dive into the Vendée aquarium at Talmont-Saint-Hilaire
Just an hour from Les Amiaux campsite, head off to Les Sables-d’Olonne to visit theAquarium de Vendée and dive right into the heart of marine life. During a 90-minute visit, you’ll discover:
more than 5,000 animals,
representing 500 species,
divided into three fascinating universes: the Atlantic and Mediterranean, the Indo-Pacific and the tropical seas.
The aquarium also offers free events and workshops, as well as meetings with enthusiastic caretakers who share anecdotes and information to better understand the animals and their environments.
🎁 Exclusive benefit:
As holidaymakers at Les Amiaux campsite, you benefit from a preferential rate on presentation of proof of accommodation (or your wristbands).
👉 To find out more and plan your visit: Aquarium de Vendée
Paradise
Aquatic
Take on the Grand Défi, the world’s largest rope park
Become an adventurer for a day and discover this unique park in the Vendée, recognized as the world’s largest accrobranche park and offering a multitude of activities for young and old:
- Tree climbing and zip lines: climb from tree to tree on courses suitable for all levels, and take to the skies on the mega-tyroleans of the world’s biggest tree climbing park. Over 42 courses in all!
- Aquapark: test your balance and agility on over 80 giant inflatable modules installed on the water.
- Quick Jump: from the age of 6, try a progressive jump in complete safety.
- Orienteering course: form a team and put your sense of direction to the test on a 20-hectare site.
- Other activities: paintball, laser game, pony rides… there’s something for everyone!
The youngest guests are not forgotten: the ” Pitchouns ” circuits allow children aged 2 and over to experience adventure in complete safety. All activities are supervised by certified operators, guaranteeing a fun and safe experience.
👉 For more information and to prepare your visit: www.grand-defi.com
Adventure at Les Sables d’Olonne Zoo
Become an explorer for a day and discover a unique place in Vendée, where nature, biodiversity and education come together to offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family:
Animal discovery: see over 400 animals of 50 different species, including many protected species. Each enclosure faithfully reproduces the natural environment of its inhabitants, guaranteeing their well-being and total immersion in their world.
Fun and educational activities: watch the animals being fed, learn about their behavior and take part in interactive workshops to raise children’s awareness of species protection and the environment.
Theme days: throughout the year, the zoo organizes events such as the Carnival of the Animals, the Spring Festival and Zoolloween, for fun and learning.
Other activities: picnic area, store, relaxation area… everything you need to enjoy a full day out with the family.
The youngest visitors are not forgotten: the zoo offers activities and discoveries suitable for children aged 3 and over, supervised by professionals trained to guarantee safety and fun.
👉 For more information and to prepare your visit: www.zoodessables.fr
