Vendée

South of Nantes is the department of Vendee. Although there are no large cities as such within this area of Western Loire, it is certainly packed full of enough different holiday delights to keep even the most demanding of visitors happy. What's more, it benefits from a wonderful micro-climate that makes it one of the sunniest parts of France.

The Coastline

The Vendee's 100 mile Atlantic coastline is virtually one continuous fine sandy beach, along which are dotted a superb variety of holiday resorts such as Saint-Jean-de-Monts, les Sables d'Olonne and Saint-Gilles. The first is particularly noted for its excellent children's facilities and all-round family fun, and the other two for being celebrated sailing centres. Just off the coast are two easily reached islands, Ile de Noirmoutier and Ile d'Yeu. Neither make too many concessions to tourism, although there are some excellent beaches, shops and restaurants, particularly on the larger Noirmoutier. What both islands certainly will give you is an absolutely authentic taste of the region's close working relationship with the sea.

Things to do

Inland the countryside is a diverse mixture of vineyards, chateaux, picturesque villages and wooded hills. There is also a section of the Marais Poitevin - a canal crossed marshland popularly known as 'Green Venice'. This could easily be compared with the Norfolk Broads, although naturally it is much warmer and certainly far less windy. Punting, or cycling along well marked tracks are both wonderful ways to explore this incredibly peaceful paradise of flora, fauna and birdlife.

Puy du Fou

By way of complete contrast, the Vendee's liveliest and almost certainly noisiest attraction can be found near the town of Les Epesses. Spread out over an area of a hundred acres, the stunning Puy du Fou medieval theme park will thrill and entertain all ages. The 115 metre long Roman coliseum alone, complete with lions, chariot races and gladiator duels, is enough to leave you breathless. But that's just the start. You can also see Vikings storming a 1000 AD fort, a grand falconry display that can only be described as aerial ballet, an authentically re-created medieval town complete with minstrel magician and loads more besides.