Going trail running in the Pays de Monts forest means running in a peaceful spot between the forest and the Vendée sea.
The paths are varied, easy to follow and suitable for all levels. Do you run regularly, or just on holiday? Trail running or jogging in the Pays de Monts forest, just 8 minutes from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches, is a great way to get moving and enjoy the fresh air.
In the Pays de Monts forest, you move between shade, sand and the sea breeze. There’s no need for a stopwatch or a personal best: just the pleasure of running in a simple, natural setting in Vendée.
At a glance
- Varied routes: sand, woodland and coastal paths for all levels.
- A natural setting: forest, dunes and ocean.
- Easy access: several loops close to Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches.
- Run at your own pace: no timings, just the pleasure of running outdoors.
- A moment for yourself: breathe, move and enjoy the calm of the Pays de Monts forest.
Why try trail running on your holiday?
Going for a trail run in the Pays de Monts forest during your holiday is a different way to discover the region.
You leave the roads and crowded beaches behind to discover quieter paths in the heart of nature. Trail running lets you move freely, at your own pace, depending on how you feel. You don’t need to be an athlete: here, everyone can find their own terrain.
The trails wind through sand, pine trees and stretches along the coast, perfect for varying your effort and the scenery. It’s also a good way to stay fit on holiday, with no stress and no set goal. In the morning for the cool air, or in the evening as the sun goes down, running in the Pays de Monts forest gives you a real sense of freedom.
An activity that is simple and accessible, and ideal for clearing your head while enjoying the fresh Vendée air.
Trail running routes in the Pays de Monts forest
The Pays de Monts area has several routes, which can be reached from the forest or the beach. Here are a few trail running route ideas to help you explore the Pays de Monts forest at your own pace.
Loop through the Forêt domaniale des Pays de Monts
This 9.2 km route is ideal for a relaxed trail run and is suitable for everyone. The trail starts between La Barre-de-Monts and Notre-Dame-de-Monts, in the heart of the Forêt domaniale des Pays de Monts.
The path alternates between sandy tracks, shaded stretches and a few short climbs, with around 106 metres of elevation gain. You will pass along the Chemin des Lays, the Belvédère du Pey de la Blet – which offers a lovely panoramic view – and then the Chemin de la Parée Grollier, before returning to your starting point.
Allow around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on your pace. It is a pleasant loop for running in peace and quiet, away from the road, with the option of heading to the beach at the end to relax in the Vendée sunshine.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts – Forest and Beach
This 7.4 km route is ideal for an easy trail run through the Pays de Monts forest, between woodland and seaside.
The route starts south of Saint-Jean-de-Monts, near the Town Hall. It alternates between stretches through the Forêt domaniale des Pays de Monts, dune crossings and sections along the beach, with around 62 metres of elevation gain.
You’ll run alongside the Plage de l’Estacade and the Plage de la Davière, with lovely views over the Bay of Biscay. Allow around 1h30 to 2h depending on your pace.
A great route for a varied run, between shade and sand, with sea air as a bonus.
Les Sirènes
This 10.1 km route is a lovely mix of nature and gentle effort. It starts near Saint-Jean-de-Monts, in the heart of the Forêt domaniale des Pays de Monts.
The route is a loop with around 120 metres of elevation gain, ideal for a brisk trail run that isn’t too demanding. The paths alternate between shaded stretches, open areas and sandy sections. You may occasionally pass walkers, cyclists or even horse riders.
Allow 2 to 2.5 hours to complete the loop at a relaxed pace. Easy to reach and well maintained, this route is popular for its variety and its peaceful stretches deep in the forest. It’s a great route for training or simply enjoying some time outdoors in the Pays de Monts forest.
Le Bois Joly
This 4.3 km route is short but enjoyable, ideal for an easy trail run or a warm-up.
With around 53 metres of elevation gain, the terrain stays gentle, alternating between forest tracks and open stretches. The atmosphere is calm, although the route can be a little busier at weekends with mountain bikers.
Allow between 1 and 1.5 hours depending on your pace. It’s a great route for discovering the Saint-Jean-de-Monts State Forest, enjoying some time in nature and running in a shaded area, which is also open to dogs.
Saint-Jean-de-Monts: Plage de la Davière
At 11.4 km, this route is one of the most varied for a seaside trail run. The loop starts near the Saint-Jean-de-Monts – Chemin Rive Davière bus stop, then follows the coast before heading into the Forêt domaniale des Pays de Monts.
The route alternates between sand, coastal path and shaded stretches, with around 93 metres of elevation gain. You’ll pass the Esplanade de la Mer, Plage des Oiseaux, Plage de la Baigneuse and, of course, Plage de la Davière, before returning to your starting point.
Allow 2 h 30 to 3 h, depending on your pace. It’s a varied and enjoyable route, perfect for runners who like to combine forest and ocean in a single outing.
Practical tips for trail running in the Pays de Monts
Running in the Pays de Monts doesn’t require much kit, but a few precautions will make your run more enjoyable. The weather, the sand and the forest sections can catch you out if you’re not prepared. Here are a few simple tips to help you make the most of your trail runs in the area.
Before you set off:
- Choose the right time of day: early in the morning or late in the afternoon, to avoid the heat and enjoy the peace and quiet.
- Bring water: some trails are shaded, but there are few places to refill along the way.
- Wear good shoes: the ground alternates between sand, soil and roots, so a grippy sole is best.
- Protect yourself from the sun: a cap, sunglasses and sun cream are essential, even in the forest.
- Stick to the marked trails: the forest is fragile, and staying on the paths helps protect its ecosystem.
- Pace yourself: sand and climbs take more energy than running on the road, so there’s no need to push.
Enjoying trail running in the Pays de Monts forest is simple: no stopwatch needed, just the wish to run and soak up the surroundings. With these few tips, you can make the most of your outings in the Vendée, between forest, dunes and ocean, less than 8 minutes from Flower Camping Au Bois des Biches.
