Situated on the west coast of France, the Vendee is becoming one of France’s most sought-after holiday destinations. Its unique combination of glorious coastline and diverse countryside make it perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. It offers a taste of 'real France', with picturesque villages, historic towns, true French culture and some of the best beaches in France - all this easily accessible from the channel ports, yet far enough south to enjoy reliable summers and a warm, sunny spring and autumn.

Varied countryside
Each part of the Vendee has its own style and its own charm. In the northern half, there is the rolling countryside of the 'Bocage' with its undulating pastures and woods, offering an authentic rural setting. The valley of the river Sevre is particularly attractive, flowing through the towns of Tiffauges, Mortagne sur Sevre and Clisson.
Futher south are the dramatic expanses of the limestone plateau, with fields of sunflowers and corn, sleepy villages and only the occasional tractor to break the calm, peaceful ambiance.
Nearing the coast, the plateau gives way to the reclaimed lands of the 'Marais Desséché', cris-crossed with drainage canals and abounding with birdlife. Hundreds of years ago, many of the villages here were the only islands standing out in the shallow waters of the 'Golfe des Pictons', now replaced by fields of corn and sunflowers and offering spectacular skies and a light all it's own.

Superb coastline
From here, the coast is characterised by miles of pine forest, leading to sand dunes and to safe, sandy beaches. From the point at L'Aiguillon-sur-Mer in the south, round to St Vincent-sur-Jard, the sandy beach extends, virtually uninterrupted, for over 12 miles. Further north-west there are delightful coves, rocky points and traditional ports.
See Angela Bird's review of good beaches.

The famous 'Green Venice'
In the south-east, around the courses of the rivers Sevre and Vendee, extends the famous 'Marais Mouille' (Green Venice) where the network of canals and waterways densely bordered with trees can be explored by punt or canoe.

Gastronomy
As with other regions of France, the Vendee is proud of its local produce. In the markets you will find a superb choice of fish and seafood, as well as wholesome vegetables with real flavour. Other local specialities include goat's cheeses, tasty hams, patés, honey and mead, and 'mogettes' (white beans). There are many local wine producers, centred on several main areas, including Mareuil-sur-Lay, Brem-sur-Mer and Pissotte. You can visit the producers for wine-tasting, and in particular we recommend a visit to the newly restored 'cave' Marie du Fou, next to the river bridge at Mareuil-sur-Lay - some of the most refined wines in the area. There is a wide selection of restaurants throughout the Vendee, offering an excellent choice of classic French cuisine or regional specialities. Take a tour round the local town, or through neigbouring villages and you will stumble accross many excellent value restaurants, full of local character. Lovers of fish and seafood will find superb choice at the coast - the local mussels, served in dozens of different ways, are some of the best in France. Many restaurants also offer basic children's menus.
See Angela Bird's review of good restaurants.