The Vendée Islands near Saint Jean de Monts
The Vendée has 2 islands:
- L’ile d’yeu, opposite Saint Jean, is located in the Bay of Biscay, 17 km from the coast. It can be reached by boat from Saint Gilles Croix de Vie, Fromentine La Barre de Monts, Barbatre sur Noirmoutier in July and August, or by helicopter for those who like altitude.
- The island of Noirmoutier in the north of the department. It can be reached by the free Pont de Noirmoutier bridge linking Barre de Monts to the island, and by crossing the Gois between Beauvoir sur Mer and the island, using the 4.2 km road that is uncovered at low tide.
Île de Noirmoutier, north of St Jean de Monts
Theisland of Noirmoutier is nicknamed the “Mimosa Island” for its mild climate, which allows mimosas to bloom during the winter season. The island radiates beauty and grandeur, with its many authentic villages and white houses with blue shutters.
The Île de Noirmoutier also offers fishing on foot on the Gois, Bois de la Chaise, Herbaudiere, Vieil and Epine, where you can pick up shellfish such as clams, oysters, mussels, cockles and pine nuts. Fishing is regulated, so for the protection of the species you need to have the right tools and respect the size and quantity you can catch.
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You can also discover and taste Vendée gastronomy: the Noirmoutier potato, also known as “bonnotte”, is very well known, as it is planted at Chandeleur and harvested 90 days later, at the beginning of May, and is produced only in Noirmoutier, and in very small quantities. Noirmoutier salt and flower are also very well known, not forgetting the island’s oysters and shellfish.
After sampling these specialties on the terrace of one of the many restaurants, or during a picnic in a special picnic area, take a stroll through the Bois de la Chaise – an unspoilt seaside spot surrounded by oak and mimosa trees.
Île d’Yeu, 17 kms from Saint Jean de Monts
Île d’Yeu offers a variety of landscapes that will appeal to nature lovers. Situated 17 km off the Vendée coast, this wild island abounds in cliffs, coves and pebble beaches.
When you arrive, the best thing to do is hire a bike to explore the island and discover its hidden treasures. With a length of around 10 km and a width of 4 km, you can cycle around the island in 1 day and discover the ruins of the Vieux Château, the Fort de Pierre Levée, the Pointe des Corbeaux and numerous prehistoric sites, including dolmens and barred spurs.
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Port Joinville is the island’s main town and gateway. You’ll find plenty of shops and places to refresh, eat and even sleep, as well as a marina for sailing enthusiasts and a once-famous fishing port.
