In the summer
Enjoy the hot days of summer as you relax on the beach. A multitude of activities and events await you.
Sunlight bursts forth, and sandals and t-shirts are back for good. It’s a time for swimming and ice cream, for picnics in the woods and extended cocktail hours outdoors. People meet, are reunited, and share the island, with everyone wanting to make sure they get their favourite spot. From Barbâtre to L’Épine by way of La Guérinière and Noirmoutier-en-l’Île, people scatter about on the beaches and at the ports, in small streets and along cycling trails. It’s the summer holidays and the programme of activities is jam-packed: a late breakfast with the family, a profusion of colours at the market, a long “lemonade break” at a sidewalk café, nibbles on the go, a nap and then the beach to tan or swim, a slow bicycle ride, exploring different spots on the island, or taking an educational tour, going sailing, playing tennis or pétanque, and the list goes on. In the evening, you’ll go to a nice little restaurant, followed by your choice of a street performance, a concert or fireworks, or else a barbecue with friends before hitting the dance floor. There’s nothing in particular that you have to do... except make a choice!
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A weekend on the island of Noirmoutier
You've decided to spend your weekend on the island of Noirmoutier! With its typical landscapes, fine sandy beaches and must-see sites, the island is a haven of peace and tranquillity. And to make the most of your stay in the west of the Vendée, take advantage of our recommendations, prepared to satisfy every one of your desires.
A gourmet weekend
Fancy treating yourself during your weekend in Noirmoutier? The culinary specialities of the island of Noirmoutier are the perfect way to discover the island's heritage while indulging yourself. Here, your taste buds will be tickled by the exquisite flavours that are so special to the island of Noirmoutier. As well as the delicious dishes, you'll discover the riches of a unique terroir, where know-how and tradition are perpetuated to the delight of fine gourmets.
A weekend in nature
Like many people, you love wide open spaces, greenery, sandy beaches and landscapes as far as the eye can see? Can't get enough of watching the birds fly overhead, hearing the waves lapping on the beach or the seagulls flying by? The island of Noirmoutier is the ideal playground for your nature weekend. Fill up on positive energy and recharge your batteries in these typical Noirmoutier areas, where flora and fauna come together in perfect harmony to immerse you in an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity. You'll be amazed by every new discovery!
A must-see weekend
As we all know, a weekend goes by quickly and we often want to make the most of it, especially when it's our first time in the destination we've chosen. So to make the most of your time on the island of Noirmoutier, plan your stay around the must-sees you don't want to miss!
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 the salt marshes
Salt marshes occupy a large space, right in the middle of Noirmoutier Island. The salt makers love to share these mazes of salt canals and clay pools full of astonishing colours. The salt makers offer tours of their own salt marshes from June to September. You can even leave with your own white gold...
Picnic in the fresh air
From Barbâtre to Noirmoutier, many picnic tables are scattered through the woods and the pine forests along the coast of the island. These outdoor facilities surrounded by nature are also great for snacks, party games with family or friends, napping or pétanque (bowls). Little ones can also enjoy the beach, under your watchful eyes.
BUY FRESH AND LOCAL PRODUCTS AT THE ISLAND MARKETS
Going to the local market is definitely a must to discover the local products of the island of Noirmoutier and treat yourself to delicious tastings! Each village has its own market day, find here the day of your next gourmet stop.
Taste the most marine potatoes!
On Noirmoutier Island, potatoes thrive in the particularly mild climate and the salty air. They grow in sandy earth, enriched by seaweed, which is where they get their unique flavour.
Fish of Noirmoutier island
A walk along L’Herbaudière’s fishing port or through the island’s markets is enough to awaken the sense of any love of fine cuisine. From the fish auction to your plate, the island’s fishermen and chefs do credit to the fish caught daily, skilfully sublimating the fresh products.
