1 Noirmoutier
Noirmoutier is a delightful low-lying island just off the Vendee coast. Accessed by either an ancient tidal causeway or modern bridge this small isle has a real Mediterranean feel with its whitewashed houses with contrasting terracotta tiles and blue shutters surrounded by pine forests. The island makes its living mainly from the sea with oyster and mussel beds and small harbours with colourful fishing boats.

2 Marais Poitevin
Known as the ‘Venise Verte’ or ‘Green Venice’ the Marais Poitevin is a tranquil wetland made up of natural watercourses, man-made canals as well as meadows, dykes and fens. This remarkable area of marshland is full of wildlife and the dominant features of the landscape are the poplar trees, which shade the waterways, bending and rustling in the wind. The best way to discover this wildlife haven is by boat and these can be hired from several local centres, including the pretty village of Coulon.

3 Le Puy du Fou
With over 1.5 million visitors a year, Le Puy du Fou is the fourth most popular attraction in France. It is a fantastic attraction for all ages, and more than a theme park in the traditional sense. It offers a selection of wonderful historical shows ranging from Roman circus games to world-class falconry. The main show takes place in the evening on a huge outdoor stage behind the ruined castle. It tells the story of the 700 years of history in the area in the form of a memorable sound and light show.

4 Ile D’Yeu
Ile D’Yeu is a small island lying six miles off the Vendee coast. It is a microcosm of the nearby mainland with a colourful fishing port, sandy beaches backed by dunes and pine forests, sheltered coves and low cliffs. The hour long ferry sails to Port-Joinville, a bustling harbour with and the main town on the island with a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants lining harbour side.

5 Fontenay-le-Comte
Fontenay-le-Comte is situated on the gently flowing Vendee River. This pleasant country town was capital of the Vendee region in the 18^th century and as a result has many interesting buildings including impressive mansions and townhouses overlooking quiet squares. Nearby are the tranquil Marais Poitevin and the beautiful Mervent Forest.

6 Lucon
Lucon is situated close to the Marais Poitevin and was once a sea port. Access to the sea has now silted up and this thriving country town is dominated by its impressive cathedral.

7 Pouzauges
The pretty hilltop town of Pouzauges lies in the Haut Bocage area of Vendee, one of the few districts of this region with undulating countryside. The steep and winding streets of the town are overlooked by the ruins of the 13^th-century castle, from where there are panoramic views over the surrounding area as far as the sea. This pretty little town has an impressive town hall which also houses the weekly indoor market on its ground floor.

8 Clisson
Lying south-east of Nantes and just outside the Vendee region is the picturesque village of Clisson. Situated on the banks of the River Sevre it is surrounded by vineyards that produce Muscadet, the dry white which traditionally accompanies local seafood. The town’s castle is typically French, but much of the rest of the its historic buildings have a distinctive Italianate style to them.

9 Les Sables d’Olonne
Les Sables d’Olonne is Vendee’s best known and largest resort. With its long promenade, choice of wide sandy beaches and excellent quayside restaurants, it is a popular destination for a family seaside holiday. It has a thriving fishing port and world class marina which is the start and finish point of the prestigious Vendee Globe sailing event, a single-handed race around the world.

10 St Gilles Croix de Vie
The attractive seaside resort and fishing harbour of St Gilles Croix de Vie straddles the River Vie. The resort has a beautiful promenade lined with shops, cafes and restaurants, with rocky coves and small beaches to the north of the river mouth and the main sandy beach to the south.

If this inspires you, why not browse our selection of holiday cottages with pools in Vendee and see what catches your eye?