Are you a keen cyclist looking for THE ideal destination to ride, along with tips on places to visit in Vendée? You’re going to love Vendée! This département in western France offers a wide choice of routes that reveal some exceptional sights. For your cycling holiday in Vendée, book a comfortable place to stay at our campsite in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches.
Vendée: a département full of cycle paths
Vendée is a real paradise for cycling holidays, with 1,800 kilometres of cycle paths and a wide choice of sights to explore by bike. Whether you are in Les Sables-d’Olonne, on the picturesque Île d’Yeu or among the salt marshes of the Île de Noirmoutier, there are plenty of varied cycling routes to choose from. The well-maintained cycle paths let you discover the natural beauty of Vendée while visiting some of the département’s best-known places, such as the harbour at Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie and the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in Saint-Jean-de-Monts. Following the cycle loops, you can enjoy a memorable ride through the countryside while admiring Vendée’s cultural treasures.
La Vélodyssée in Vendée
The Vélodyssée is one of Europe’s great cycle routes, crossing the Vendée on its way from the Channel to the Atlantic. Cyclists planning a cycling holiday in Vendée can start their journey from Les Sables-d’Olonne, a key stage on this wonderful cycling adventure. You can also begin your trip from Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, Fromentine or La Tranche-sur-Mer. Following the Vendée coast, the well-signposted cycle paths offer a unique chance to discover beaches, picturesque harbours, salt marshes and coastal villages. The Vélodyssée in Vendée is an exceptional cycling experience, taking you through varied landscapes while you enjoy the invigorating sea air.
The Vélo Francette in Vendée
The Vélo Francette is another cycle route that crosses the Vendée, linking the Channel to the Atlantic. This cycling adventure can begin in the town of Damvix. Cyclists can discover the charms of the Marais Poitevin wetlands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the region’s winding canals. This cycling loop lets you explore historic sites such as the Donjon de Niort and enjoy the peace and quiet of the Vendée’s riverbanks. The Vélo Francette in Vendée is an invitation to discover the culture and nature of the area through varied landscapes.
Guided bike rides in Vendée
If you’d like to discover Vendée by bike with a local’s insight, guided bike rides are an ideal option. Experienced guides can lead cyclists along scenic routes, pointing out the historical and cultural sights of the département. Whether you choose a ride along the Vendée coast, a trip through the salt marshes or a visit to traditional villages, these guided bike rides are a rewarding experience for cycling enthusiasts.
Bike hire in Vendée
If you don’t have your own bike for your trip around Vendée, there are plenty of bike hire options available. Coastal towns such as Les Sables-d’Olonne and Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie offer bike hire services, including electric bikes to make getting around the cycle paths easier. It’s a practical option that lets visitors enjoy exploring Vendée by bike without having to bring their own equipment.
Planning your cycling trip in Vendée
Preparing a cycling trip in Vendée takes careful planning: choosing your route, taking into account the different cycle paths, the sights you want to visit and your stops along the way. It’s important to check the weather forecast and make sure you have the right equipment, especially bikes in good condition. Local maps and guides can help you put together a route that suits your tastes. A well-prepared walk or bike ride will give you memories to treasure of this beautiful region of France.
Have you cycled all over the département or ridden the Vélo Rail track? Take time to recharge on one of Vendée’s beaches after your adventurous trip through green countryside and coastal scenery in this lovely corner of France.
