A must-see weekend

Check the tide times before crossing the Gois passage. In case of average coefficient, beyond 70, you can cross 1 hour and half before and 1 hour and half after low tide. The Gois passage is a mythical road between Noirmoutier Island and the continent, but also a talented transformist capable of appearing under two very different lights. Whether emerging or hidden, the Gois always has a theatrical flair... a continuous show that delights its spectators.

Salterns are typical of the scenery on Noirmoutier Island, covering a third of the island. They were shaped by man over the course of centuries. The hundred or so salt makers on the island perpetuate their high-quality ancestral know-how. The 100% natural salt is harvested in accordance with traditions. Dive into the heart of this magical world.

Installed on the sandstone north-east of Noirmoutier-en-l'Ile, sheltered from the westerly winds, this wood is pure ocean sweetness. It is distinguished by the variety of its Mediterranean essences: oaks, strawberry trees, maritime pines and mimosas flourish there in a very studied clutter. The painter Auguste Renoir was conquered by this inspired and inspiring place. Will you be as much as he?

On the west coast of the island, a natural harbour surrounded by rocks where a fishing fleet would come to anchor has now been transformed into a modern marina.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Want to find out more about the island's heritage? Head for the town centre of Noirmoutier-en-l'île to discover all that the destination has to offer. Shopping, culture, the seaside landscape, typical neighbourhoods and conviviality will reveal every detail of the island to you. And for a complete overview, follow the guide and discover this small town with character, which will be awarded the label in 2022 (Petites Cités de Caractère de France)!