Welcome to Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie! This pearl of the Côte de Lumière is much more than just a seaside resort. It’s a town of character, shaped by its fishing port, its fine sandy beaches, and its delicious gastronomy. From our Les Biches campsite, you are at the ideal starting point to discover all facets of this jewel of the Saint-Gilles region. Get ready, your schedule promises to be packed!
Essential activities in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
To help you see more clearly, here’s an overview of experiences not to be missed.
| Category | Must-sees | Ideal for… | Les Biches Campsite’s tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beaches & coastline | Grande Plage, Boisvinet beach, Vendée corniche | Families, watersports enthusiasts, hikers | The Boisvinet beach, with its club and accessibility labels, is perfect for young children. |
| Culture & heritage | Sardine Workshop, Fishing Stopover, Fisherman’s House | The curious, history buffs | Don’t miss the guided tour of the fish market, a unique local experience organized by the Tourist Office. |
| Gastronomy | Sardine tasting (Label Rouge), local markets | Food lovers, fresh produce enthusiasts | The Place du Vieux Port market (Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday) is a treat for the senses and the soul of the town. |
| Family activities | Dino’s Park, rail-bike, Jaunay River walk | Children, teens, parents | The rail-bike is an original outing that the whole family will enjoy; remember to book during high season. |
Discover the fishing port, the beating heart of the town
To truly visit Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, start with its port. This is where the heart of the town has beaten for centuries. A fleet of about fifty boats enlivens the fishing port, landing nearly 4,000 tons of fish each year, including the famous sardine. Stroll along the Old Port quays, watch the trawlers’ ballet, and soak in this authentic atmosphere.
To go further, step through the doors of Escale Pêche, a discovery center that reveals the behind-the-scenes of sea fishing. It’s a visit that is both educational and fun, ideal for understanding the importance of this activity in the history and daily life of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
Enjoy the beaches of the Côte de Lumière
Wondering what to do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie to relax? Head to the beaches!
The Grande Plage, a vast stretch of fine sand that extends to Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, is ideal for watersports enthusiasts. For families with children, Boisvinet beach is an excellent choice. More sheltered, this Saint-Gilles beach has a club and is supervised during the season.
Important note: both beaches are accessible to all, thanks to Tiralo devices and the Handiplage label. A true guarantee of quality to enjoy the sea with complete peace of mind.
Savor local gastronomy: much more than just sardines
Activities in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie also include culinary delights. The local star is, of course, the sardine, the first wild fish to have obtained the prestigious Label Rouge. Visit the La Perle des Dieux cannery or the Sardine Workshop to discover its full history.
But the gourmet delights don’t stop there: also consider the salt from the Vie salt marshes. The town has the particularity of hosting five markets per week:
- Saint-Gilles side (Place du Vieux-Port): Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
- Croix-de-Vie side (Place Guy-Kergoustin): Wednesday and Saturday.
It’s the ideal opportunity to meet local producers and fill your basket with Vendée flavors.
Family fun: activities for all ages
Activities in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie are designed for the whole family. For a day of adventure with the kids, Dino’s Park in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez transports you to the prehistoric era. Not far from there, near Saint-Jean-de-Monts, other leisure parks await you.
If you’re looking for a more original activity, try the Commequiers Rail-Bike: you’ll pedal with your family on an old railway line, a unique experience that creates wonderful memories. For the little ones, playgrounds offer fun and welcome breaks.
discover nature: hikes and walks
For walking enthusiasts, there are many hikes in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie. The best-known route is the Corniche Vendéenne, a 3 km trail that runs along the rocky coast to Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez. The landscapes are superb and typical of the Vendée coastline.
The Saint-Gilles region also boasts over 400 km of cycle paths, including the famous Vélodyssée. Don’t hesitate to rent bikes for a day out in nature.
And why not plan an excursion to Île d’Yeu or Noirmoutier from the port?
Participate in local events
To feel the pulse of the town, there’s nothing like taking part in its festivities. Events in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie enliven the seaside resort throughout the year. From the International Jazz Festival in March to the Gourmet Fair in autumn, and the big Sardine Spring Festival, there’s always a good reason to gather.
Consult the Tourist Office’s agenda to find out the program during your stay. It’s the best way to experience local life and share convivial moments.