As soon as you step off the ferry, time slows down and you find yourself in a car-free cycling paradise. You won’t find any big hotel chains or heavy traffic here; this island exudes tranquility.

Ideal for: those seeking peace and quiet, nature lovers, and bon vivants who want to truly get away from it all for a while.

What to do on Île d'Yeu?

Cycle along the Côte Sauvage

Since the island is largely car-free, the best way to discover its most charming spots is by bike. Cycle along the rugged south coast and admire the impressive Grand Phare, Port de la Meule, Port-Joinville, the various sandy beaches , and Le Vieux Château. This medieval castle perches on a rocky outcrop in the middle of the ocean and is breathtakingly beautiful. Don’t feel like biking? You can also explore the Côte Sauvage with “Le petit train,” an electric train that takes you on a guided tour with commentary.

Want to bring home a nice souvenir? Near Port-Joinville, you’ll find the charming little boutique 'La Fabrique'. Here you can buy all kinds of unique, handmade items crafted by local island artisans!

Would you like to enjoy a comfortable stay on the French coast? The Vendée coastline combines wide sandy beaches with charming fishing villages and miles of safe bike paths through the woods. A wonderful region for anyone looking to rent a vacation home on the French coast.

Ideal for: families with children and active foodies.

Things to Do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, Brétignolles, and Brem-sur-Mer

Beach-hopping and sailing between Brétignolles-sur-Mer and Brem-sur-Mer

Fancy a stroll on land or on the water? The coast near Brétignolles and Brem is perfect for a bike ride through the shady pine forests right behind the beach. Want to take it up a notch? Rent a catamaran from a local sailing school to feel the Atlantic wind in your sails. After all, you’re right near Les Sables-d’Olonne, the legendary start and finish line of the Vendée Globe—the most extreme non-stop solo sailing race around the world!

Don’t know how to sail yet? Nothing is impossible: head a little further south to the safe, calm lakes in Les Landes to learn. Make it a New Year’s resolution right away and forget about those vacation dilemmas; among the vacation homes in La Vendée from CAP, you’re guaranteed to find your go-to spot to fine-tune your skills. Who knows—maybe you’ll be competing in the Globe soon!

Oyster Tasting in Port du Bec

Just a little north of these seaside resorts, you’ll find this unique little wooden harbor. Stop by a local oyster farm here for a plate of fresh Huîtres Vendée Atlantique oysters with a chilled glass of dry white wine. Of course, you can also combine it with a good bike ride out there: après l’effort, le réconfort! (Although, after that well-deserved break, you’ll still have to bike back, of course).

Cap Holiday Tip

With our selection of vacation homes in La Vendée (in Brétignolles, Brem, and Saint-Gilles), you’ll find the perfect base for these fun activities with the whole family.

Gujan-Mestras, the Oyster Capital (Arcachon Bay)

A little further north lies Gujan-Mestras, the undisputed capital of oyster farming. With no fewer than 7 traditional oyster harbors, this is the ultimate place to eat oysters in a wooden cabane. Did you go oyster tasting near Arcachon itself? Then you’ll make the little ones (or just the enthusiasts among us) absolutely delighted with a delicious artisanal ice cream from Ô Sorbet d’Amour.  Plus, the world-famous Dune de Pilat (Europe’s tallest sand dune) is just around the corner!