Dreaming of adventure, solving mysteries and travelling back in time? Vendée is made for you! It invites you to discover its past by exploring the châteaux of Vendée, where the echoes of old battles still seem to ring through the walls.
Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of medieval legends or a newcomer looking for a touch of magic, this region takes you on an immersive journey, where every castle keeps its secrets well hidden
Picture yourself wandering along the paths of a fortified castle, taking in superb views from the ramparts, or watching spectacular re-enactments that bring medieval life to the fore. Ready to join us on the road to discover the most unmissable castles in Vendée during your stay at our campsite in Saint Hilaire de Riez?
Talmont Castle
Let the magic of Talmont Castle carry you away, a site with more than 1,000 years of history. Imagine standing on top of its ramparts, looking out over the bay and the beautiful landscape around you. This castle has seen lords, knights and even Richard the Lionheart, who is said to have stayed here. As you explore this medieval monument, you’ll be struck by the power of its rich and captivating past. But the adventure doesn’t end there. In summer, the castle comes to life with escape games, children’s workshops and evening shows that retell the story of Richard the Lionheart. In the blink of an eye, you’ll be transported to the time of the Crusades.
Practical information:
- Address: Talmont Castle, 85440 Talmont-Saint-Hilaire
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: about 25 km, or 30 minutes by car via the D38 and the D949.
- Prices: adults: €9, children: €5
- Highlights: escape game, evening show, children’s workshops.
Commequiers Castle
Just a few minutes from the Château de Talmont, there’s another Vendée castle to discover: the Château de Commequiers, with its impressive eight massive towers rising proudly above the lake. The views around the castle are superb, and the peaceful setting makes it an ideal spot for a lovely walk or a family picnic. But the real fun begins in summer, with the medieval shows held in the castle courtyard. You can even watch battle reenactments that blend history and theatre!
Practical information:
- Address: Château de Commequiers, 85220 Commequiers
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: about 20 km, or 25 minutes by car via the D38 and D949.
- Prices: free entry (medieval show chargeable)
- Good to know: medieval shows, children’s play area.
The Château des Essarts
Step into history with a visit to the Château des Essarts, an exceptional site where the legacy of the Roman era meets medieval remains. Picture yourself strolling through its gardens, listening to tales of battles long past while admiring the sculptures that decorate its ramparts. Along with its themed trail and educational activities, you can also watch genuine equestrian shows, where horses and riders bring to life the bravery of knights of old. A visit to this castle in Vendée is a real journey back in time!
Practical information:
- Address: Château des Essarts, 85120 Les Essarts
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: approximately 35 km, around 40 minutes by car via the D38 and D949.
- Prices: adults: €12, children: €4
- Highlights: theme park, evening entertainment, concerts and equestrian shows.
Tiffauges Castle
Discover Tiffauges Castle, a place whose history is as legendary as it is fascinating. Built in the 12th century, the castle is famous as the home of Gilles de Rais, companion of Joan of Arc and an enigmatic figure of medieval history. Visiting this castle in the Vendée is about much more than walking around the walls. You can watch interactive shows that bring to life the siege techniques of the Middle Ages, and explore a collection of war machines where you can see the engines of the era in action. You can even try your hand at being a knight and test your skills in recreated historic battles!
Practical information:
- Address: Château de Tiffauges, 85130 Tiffauges
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: approximately 50 km, around 50 minutes by car via the D38 and D949.
- Prices: adults: €9, children (6-12 years): €6
- Highlights: medieval shows and reenactments, collection of war machines.
The Mélusine Tower
In the charming village of Vouvant, you’ll find the Tour de Mélusine, all that remains of an old Vendée fortress. Steeped in legend, this place is best known for the tale of the fairy Mélusine, a magical creature, half woman and half serpent, who turned into a serpent every Saturday. The tower is the mysterious witness to her never-ending transformation. Climb to the top of the tower and you can soak up the legend while enjoying a magnificent view over the Vendée bocage countryside.
Practical information:
- Address: Tour de Mélusine, 85120 Vouvant
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: around 60 km, or 1 hour by car via the D38 and D949.
- Price: Free
- Highlights: panoramic views, legends and medieval history.
Château d’Apremont
Overlooking the town of the same name, the Château d’Apremont is a place where history and nature sit side by side with elegance. This Vendée château, dating from the 11th century, was transformed in the 16th century under Philippe Chabot de Brion, who turned it into a Renaissance palace. If you love beautiful landscapes, you’ll be delighted by the unspoilt views the château offers over the surrounding valley.
Practical information:
- Address: Château d’Apremont, 85220 Apremont
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: around 55 km, or 55 minutes by car via the D38 and D949.
- Price: €7.50 (adult rate)
- Highlights: unspoilt views, gardens to explore.
Logis de la Chabotterie
The Logis de la Chabotterie is one of those places where the past wraps itself around you. A former lords’ residence, this house played a key role in the War in the Vendée during the French Revolution. As you visit this château in Vendée, you’ll wander through authentically furnished rooms and step into the atmosphere of the 18th century, while listening to stories from those turbulent times. Its strikingly beautiful French-style gardens invite you to take a peaceful stroll, a perfect way to end your visit.
Practical information:
- Address: Logis de la Chabotterie, 85110 Saint-Sulpice-le-Verdon
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: around 60 km, or 1 hour by car via the D38 and D949.
- Prices: €3 (adult rate)
- Highlights: a storytelling approach to history, French-style gardens.
The old castle on the Île d’Yeu
Take the ferry to the Île d’Yeu and let the wild, mysterious atmosphere of the Château de l’île d’Yeu win you over. Perched on a clifftop, this fortified castle is steeped in legends. Reached by a suspension bridge, it stands proudly facing the ocean, exposed to the wind and the waves. Walking along its ramparts, you’ll feel the drama of the place. A guided tour will tell you more about the art of medieval defence. This château in Vendée is a must for anyone who loves history and adventure.
Practical information:
- Address: Vieux Château, Île d’Yeu
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: accessible by ferry from the port of Fromentine (35-minute crossing).
- Price: €8 (adult ticket)
- Highlights: spectacular views, guided tour, the history of the fortifications.
Sigournais Castle
If you love medieval architecture and well-preserved fortresses, Sigournais Castle is for you. Perched on a hill, this castle, more than 1,000 years old, feels like a picture postcard, with its imposing towers and immaculately kept gardens. On a visit to this Vendée castle, you’ll learn all about medieval building techniques and be fascinated by the collection of coats of arms displayed in its rooms.
Practical information:
- Address: Château de Sigournais, 85700 Sigournais
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: about 85 km, or 1h15 by car via the D38.
- Price: €10 (adult ticket)
- Highlights: collection of coats of arms, guided tour.
The keep at Bazoges-en-Pareds
End your adventure with the most impressive castle in Vendée of all: the keep at Bazoges-en-Pareds. This magnificent medieval site, surrounded by a garden awarded the “Jardin Remarquable” label, takes you straight back to medieval times. Climb up the keep and enjoy the spectacular view over the surrounding valley. With its fun, educational activities, this castle is a great choice for the whole family. Children will love joining in the organised games and discovering the history of the fortress through interactive activities.
Practical information:
- Address: Donjon de Bazoges-en-Pareds, 85320 Bazoges-en-Pareds
- Getting there from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches: around 95 km, or 1 h 25 by car via the D38 and D949.
- Price: €8 (adult ticket)
- Key features: notable garden, children’s activities.
That brings us to the end of our tour of the most beautiful castles in Vendée, each one majestic, with ruins full of secrets and grounds that host a rich programme of live shows.
To make your trip even more memorable, stay at Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches, well placed for these must-see historic sites. It’s a perfect chance to discover these treasures from the past, explore the beauty of the Vendée coast and unwind in a unique natural setting. A stay that combines culture, history and relaxation awaits you.
