A weekend in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie  

Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is a charming coastal town in the Vendée, much-loved for its sandy beaches, fresh sardines, bustling marina and vibrant markets. It’s the perfect weekend destination… 

Day 1: Maritime jollies

To start your weekend off right, begin by getting to know something of the history and culture of this pretty coastal town. Choose from two marked hiking trails (Au fil des pierres de lest and Chemin de la sardine), which will lead you on a journey through time through its charming streets and must-see spots such as the fishing port and marina.

Enjoy a sailing trip aboard a yacht and enjoy the wide panoramic views over the Grande Plage and the dune area, not to mention the rocky coast of Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez and its majestic cliffs.

The sea fishing discovery centre, Escale Pêche, offers a fun and exciting dive into the local fishing industry. From the various fishing techniques to the ins and outs of the fish auctions, it’s a masterclass in the world of fishing.

In the golden age of sardine fishing in the late 19th century, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie had up to 15 canneries in operation. Gendreau, the only cannery in operation now, recently opened the Atelier de la Sardine, a museum which traces the history of this family business, which has been passed down through four generations. As well as the museum, explore the beautiful shop where you’ll find irresistible goodies to take home by La Perle des Dieux. 

Day 2: Escape in the great outdoors

For the second day, head to Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez where you can discover its many natural spaces. Pedal along the beautiful Corniche Vendéenne and enjoy the rocky coast, which is a famous attraction.

Then escape to the marshes of Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, a peaceful, unspoilt environment where the Bourrine du Bois Juquaud is located. This former farm invites you to discover the habits and customs of the area’s market gardeners back in the 19th century. Finally, for a breathtaking change of scenery, discover the ocean and the dunes via a long walk in the heart of the Maritime Pines which populate the national forest of Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez.

Day 3: In the heart of the vineyards

To end your stay in the Pays de Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie in style, how about a gastronomy day in the vineyards of Brem-sur-Mer ? 

Visit the estates and meet the winemakers, who are keen to share their savoir-faire with you and invite you to a tasting. And for one last treat for your taste buds, head to the Michelin-starred restaurant Les Genêts for an unforgettable lunch. Chef Nicolas Coutand offers local and seasonal cuisine throughout the year and his food has been described by Michelin as “creative, joyful and flavoursome”.

To complete your day, take a bike ride through the heart of the vineyards. On the way back, make a stop in the historic district of Brem to visit the church of St Nicolas, one of the oldest in the Vendée, built in the 11th century and classified as an Historic Monument in 1956.