In autumn Take advantage of the mild autumn weather to travel all over the island in peace and quiet. Disconnect from the real world during a stay by the sea.
Far from the noises of summer, everything now just encourages you to slow down. Drink in the last of the sun before it retreats, a breath of sea air before shutting yourself in, take a walk to stock up on good weather, with your beloved, your family or your friends. You can still strut your stuff with a drink outdoors or a barbecue on the weekend! Sea birds put on a show, now less easily startled with the renewed calm. For a real “serenity break”, watch them come and go as you sit facing the sea or lean on a pontoon. And the light... It’s softer but makes sunsets look like real works of art, pulling you down towards the beaches with their endless horizons... The time has come for a walk along the water, where you can still – for now – dare to go barefoot. Small children will squeal with delight as they break in their wellingtons in the marzelles (tide pools) or gallop up and down the foreshore. The promise of a snack with the family stimulates the taste buds. The ice cream vendor is still open... but you might prefer a waffle or a crêpe at this point!
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DAY EXCURSION TO THE ISLAND
Visiting the island of Noirmoutier in one day is possible thanks to the two routes that we have prepared for you, impossible to miss the places and key sites of the island.
GO SEE THE FISHING BOATS AT L’HERBAUDIÈRE PORT
Engine noises, whistling rigging and slapping halyards: welcome to the port of L'Herbaudière! It was the first marina built in the Vendée, but is also a lively fishing port and a pleasant place for a stroll with its souvenir shops, bars and restaurants.
Savor oysters at Bonhomme Port
Dawn barely breaks before the slipway at Bonhomme Port begins to hum with the coming and going of tractors hauling flat-bottomed boats to the oyster farms just uncovered by the tide. Despite its unbeatable view of the town of Noirmoutier-en-l’Île, this miniature port on Bourgneuf Bay, would almost go unnoticed if it weren’t the island’s main oyster port.
VISIT LE VIEIL FISHING VILLAGE
Past the center of Noirmoutier-en-l’Île, far from the hustle and bustle, you will come across a series of hamlets: La Claire, Le Vieil, La Madeleine and then, after Notre-Dame de la Blanche Abbey, La Linière. Everywhere are small white houses with blue shutters facing the south to expose their gardens to the sun and fill the air with the scents of their seasonal flowers. Take advantage of the calm village of Le Vieil to enjoy a peaceful walk through its narrow streets lined with charming fishermen’s houses.
Have a relaxing break
Spas, beauty parlours, wellness therapists, somatologists, meditation workshops and more: put the expertise of the island’s professionals to use to help you decompress.
Sporting activities
Tennis courts, equestrian centres, aquarobics and swimming classes, archery, pétanque (bowls), rollerblading, gyms, bicycle hires and more.
Water-based activities in Noirmoutier Island
Whether you are a beginner or a sailing enthusiast, interested in excursions at sea or thrills, there is something for everyone on Noirmoutier Island: sailing, centreboarders, kitesurfing, land yachting, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skis, scuba diving, open sea excursions and fishing, water skiing, boat hires and sales, and many more activities on the water that are suitable for the whole family.
DISCOVER THE MILLS OF LA GUÉRINIÈRE
As you come to Noirmoutier Island, you will be surprised by the impressive number of windmills here. The island’s mills are ballet masters, elegant and romantic. Flocks of seagulls often come to salute their strange cousins with a tip of the wing. The mills too would love to still be playing with the wind, but they have lost their “wings”. But they still provide a faithful reminder of their millers and that bygone era.
BIRDING AT SÉBASTOPOL POLDER
Located at the entrance to Noirmoutier Island in Barbâtre, the Sébastopol Polder is a protected regional nature reserve. It is a meeting place for many scientists and nature lovers. This nesting spot is terrific for birding and for outdoor walks with the family.
