Are you a nature lover dreaming of a stay filled with hikes through exceptional scenery? The Au Bois des Biches campsite in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez is your guide! We’ve put together a selection of routes that let you discover the area in a different way, beyond visiting its monuments. Find your favourite hike in Vendée among these paths and share it with loved ones who also want to head out walking in the heart of this destination in western France.
Walk around Lac de Jaunay
If you’re looking for a peaceful hike in Vendée in the heart of nature, the Lac de Jaunay circuit is a perfect choice. This 7.7 km loop takes you through green countryside along the lake shore, with calm, soothing views. Taking about 1 hour 40 minutes, this walk is suitable for all levels of walker. As well as being easy and enjoyable, this route has picnic areas where you can enjoy a delicious meal outdoors. To start this exceptional walk, head to Lac de Jaunay.
Bois de la Chaise – Plage de la Clère loop
This 7.7 km loop is a scenic walk that brings together the beauty of the Vendée coastline and the peace of the forest. It takes around 1h32 and can be done on foot, running or by bike, so it suits all kinds of outdoor lovers. This easy Vendée hike starts at La Barbauderie and takes you through lovely scenery, passing points of interest such as the Pointe de Saint-Pierre, the plage des Dames and the Fort de Saint-Pierre. Enjoy the views over the ocean and the charm of the surrounding nature on this walking route.
Marais d’Olonne Loop
If you love birdwatching and wildlife, the Marais d’Olonne trail is a special experience. This 5.6 km route takes around 1 hour and leads you through protected marshland, where you can spot a variety of birds in their natural habitat. The loop, between Olonne-sur-Mer and Brem-sur-Mer, is ideal for a peaceful outing in the heart of nature. The calm of the marshes and the birdsong create a soothing atmosphere, making this walk a real escape into the natural world.
Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez Beaches Trail
If you dream of a walking holiday in Vendée along the golden beaches of Vendée, the Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez beach trail is a must. This moderate 11.4 km route takes around 2 hours 18 minutes and leads you through spectacular coastal scenery. Along the way you will pass the Jean Yole promenade, Cinq Pineaux beach, the Trou du Diable and the Garance promenade, all well-known sights in the department. Every stage of the walk offers stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean, making it a memorable outing for anyone who loves the sea.
Boucle du Veillon
The Boucle du Veillon is an easy 7.1 km walk that introduces you to the charm of the Bois du Veillon. With an elevation gain of 46 metres and a duration of around 1 hour 20 minutes, this loop is ideal for a day out in nature with family, friends or your other half. The route starts from Veillon beach, giving you views of the ocean, and leads you to the Château du Veillon, a historic gem of the region. This walk in Vendée is perfect for recharging your batteries in an unspoilt natural setting, where peace and quiet reign.
After a few walks through unspoilt countryside, be sure to explore some of Vendée’s best-known towns, such as Les Sables d’Olonne, Saint-Jean-de-Monts, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez or Apremont.
