Camping in Vendee: From Castles to Coast
Vendee is situated in the Pays-de-la-Loire region in west central France, on the Atlantic Ocean. Four main rivers run through it, namely the Vendee, Lay, Sevre Nantaise and Sevre Niortaise rivers. Mont Mercure is the highest point in the region (285m), and makes for an enjoyable and pleasant hike. With a diverse landscape, you can take a day to explore each area, returning home to one of Vendee's beautiful campsites for a relaxing evening in the fresh summer air.
If it's an affordable beach holiday you're after, Camping in Vendee is ideal. With 250km of coastline, a range of beautiful beaches are at your disposal, where you can spend lazy days lounging on their golden sands. There are great places to explore inland too, with The Green Venice and the Grand Parc of Puy du Fou making for exciting days out.
The Glistening Coastline
Spending time on the beach is perfect while camping. Vendee has some exceptional beaches, many of which have been given the blue flag rating, so you can be sure to find a beach that tickles your fancy. Lie on the golden sands and bask in the glorious summer sun, cooling off every now and again in the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
From the beaches of Ile d'Yeu and Ile de Noirmoutier, many a day can be spent feeling the sand between your toes while on holiday camping in Vendee.
Rowing in The Green Venice
A large area of marshland known as the Marais Poitevin covers western France, creating an interesting and beautiful landscape. From low-lying marshy shrubs to lush vegetation, the environment is diverse. Ideal for a day trip when camping in Vendee, the wet marshland area of this region is a popular tourist area.
About two thirds of the Marais Poitevin consists of dry marsh, mostly used for farming. While this is a beautiful and interesting place to visit, it is the wet marsh that is more commonly explored by holiday makers camping in Vendee. Known as The Green Venice, this wet marshland is made up of a maze of islets criss-crossed by canals.
You can spend a day row boating through the area, where traditional barges can be hired to navigate the canals. This is an excellent way to explore the area, and a great activity to do while on a Vendee camping holiday.
Blue Beard's Castle
Blue Beard's Castle at Tiffauges, is a three hectare estate perched atop a rocky spur, with beautiful views and a historical atmosphere. Spend a day discovering these ancient ruins while camping in Vendee, and partake in the history of the region.
Its interesting collection of war machines will take you back in French history, adding some culture and historical insight to your holiday. It is said that the ghost of Blue Beard haunts the ruins, so you had better check over your shoulder every now and again in case he is following in your shadow.
In July and August, theatrical performances are held at Blue Beard's castle, and make for a great evening out while on a Vendee camping holiday.
Reliving History in Puy du Fou
The Grand Parc of Puy du Fou is situated in the heart of the Puy du Fou forest. After a refreshing walk whilst breathing in the forest air, head into The Grand Parc and step back in time. The Parc consists of different villages, each representing a different era. Relive the lives of heroes, enjoy the fun of the Roman circus, compete in jousting tournaments and fend off Viking attacks.
The Grand Parc makes for an interesting and fun day out when camping in Vendee, and is a great activity for the whole family.
About the Author:
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, one of the leading European camping and mobile home holiday operators in the UK. With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer superb holidays camping in Vendee, as well as trips to Italy, Spain and a total of 9 European countries.