Fancy a break in nature during your holiday in Vendée? Paddling along the Vie or the Jaunay means exploring the region at the pace of the water: peaceful, wild scenery and little surprises around every bend. From our campsite, you’re close to some of the prettiest starting points for a canoe trip that’s easy, fun and open to everyone.
Whether you come with family or friends, these rivers offer a real breath of fresh air, and plenty of lovely memories too.
Discover the Vie and the Jaunay: two rivers perfect for canoeing in Vendée
The Vie: a gentle river winding its way to the ocean
The Vie flows through Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie before reaching the Atlantic. It’s a peaceful river, lined with marshes, reeds and little paths where nature seems to take its time. It’s ideal for a family outing or a first experience of canoeing in Vendée: no strong current, a very safe setting and a totally relaxing atmosphere.
The Jaunay: a wilder, more off-the-beaten-track setting
Lac du Jaunay, with its must-do activities, shows a different side: an area surrounded by forest, with narrower stretches and a few shaded spots… It’s perfect for those who prefer a little more adventure, while still being accessible to beginners. The site is classified as a sensitive natural area, which ensures a protected setting and rich biodiversity.
Two atmospheres, one promise: reconnecting with nature
Wherever you choose to paddle, the experience is the same: peace and quiet, varied landscapes and the feeling of being far from it all… when you’re only a few kilometres from our campsite.
The best canoe routes on the Vie
Family route: Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie (1 to 2 hours)
A route that’s ideal for a first paddle or an outing with children. The current is gentle, the scenery is restful, and every stroke of the paddle reveals a different natural landscape.
What to enjoy along the way:
- very calm stretches, perfect for beginners;
- the beauty of the marshes and reed beds;
- a comfortable, safe launch point;
- a wide variety of birds to spot.
Intermediate route: paddling up the Vie inland (2 to 3 hours)
If you’d like to go a little further without too much effort, this route is a good compromise.
What to expect:
- narrower sections and a wilder setting;
- countryside scenery: meadows, mills and stone bridges;
- a few spots that are ideal for a photo stop;
- a real sense of escape just a few minutes from the coast.
Recommended canoe routes on the Jaunay
Discovery route: Lac du Jaunay (1 to 2 hours)
Lac du Jaunay is the perfect place to start exploring the area at a gentle pace. Wide and stable, it suits families and beginners alike.
You’ll particularly enjoy:
- calm, reassuring waters;
- lovely views over the wooded hills;
- quiet little coves for a break;
- an unspoiled setting where nature comes first.
Adventure route: the wild Jaunay (2 to 3 hours)
As you leave the wider stretches behind, the atmosphere becomes more intimate and mysterious.
On this route, you can expect:
- narrower, sometimes shaded passages;
- total immersion in an area classified as a sensitive natural space;
- discreet but ever-present wildlife (herons, dragonflies, kingfishers);
- a trip that feels like it’s outside of time.
Good practice to help protect the site
The Jaunay is a natural treasure, and everyone can play a part in protecting it:
- stay within the marked navigable areas;
- avoid getting too close to the banks to protect nesting birds;
- take everything back with you… including your rubbish;
- keep quiet: it’s the best way to spot wildlife.
Hiring a canoe on the Vie & the Jaunay
Several water sports centres are just a few minutes from our campsite by car or by bike. All of them hire out canoes, kayaks and paddleboards, with life jackets, advice and suggested routes.
- Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie canoe base: ideal for family routes.
- Lac du Jaunay leisure centre: launch spots and on-site hire.
Practical information:
- Equipment included: paddles, life jacket, waterproof dry bag.
- Booking recommended in summer, especially for morning slots.
- Duration: from 1 hour to half a day, depending on the route you choose.
Getting ready for your canoe trip: practical tips for a great outing
On the Vie as on the Jaunay, a few simple habits are all you need to make the most of your canoe trip and enjoy a smooth, pleasant and peaceful paddle.
What level do you need to go canoeing?
Good news: you don’t need to be sporty! Both rivers are suitable for beginners and families. The routes are calm, with no strong current.
What should I take canoeing on the Vie and/or the Jaunay?
- a bottle of water (essential in summer)
- sun cream and a cap
- a light towel or windproof jacket, depending on the weather
- closed shoes or water sandals
- your phone in a waterproof dry bag (provided by the bases)
When is the best time to go?
- Morning: soft light, less wind and ideal temperatures.
- Late afternoon: a lovely atmosphere, quieter and perfect for photos.
- Summer: book ahead, as slots fill up quickly.
Safety & good practice
- keep your life jacket fastened (compulsory)
- paddle in the centre of the river and slow down in narrow stretches
- let the base know your estimated return time
- avoid fragile riverbanks and nesting wildlife
Canoeing on the Vie and/or the Jaunay is one of the loveliest ways to see the Vendée from an authentic angle. With peaceful marshes, a wild lake and rivers lined with greenery, these two spots offer easy routes, ideal for a break in nature during your stay. From our campsite, it only takes a few minutes to reach the best starting points and enjoy an outing with family or friends.
A simple, refreshingly different and perfect activity to enrich your holiday in the Vendée.
