A day exploring the Baie de l’Aiguillon in Vendée
1 day
Located on the west coast of France, the Baie de l’Aiguillon in the Vendée is a true natural gem, offering breathtaking scenery and exceptional flora and fauna.
Remember: To make the most of this exceptional area, remember to wear good sneakers and a cap.
A leisurely morning exploring the nature reserve
Start your day exploring the Baie de l’Aiguillon nature reserve. To get there, you’ll need a good half-hour and head towards La Prée Mizotière in Sainte-Radégonde-des-Noyers. On your way, the scenery is already breathtaking, but you
haven’t seen anything yet!
This reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers, as it is home to a multitude of migratory birds. Bring your binoculars and stroll along the trails to observe herons, avocets, flamingos and many other bird species. Take the opportunity to learn more about the Bay’s fragile ecosystem and the conservation efforts being made to preserve it. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, members of the LPO Vendée association show you around the Lagune de la Belle-Henriette, the Rocher de la Dive or the Réserve Naturelle de Saint Denis du Payré. Volunteers will share with you all the secrets of the
Bay. You’ll know everything there is to know about the flora and fauna of the Pointe de l’Aiguillon. Bird enthusiasts can learn all about bird migration in these unspoilt surroundings.
The tour offers a splendid view of the bay from an observation platform on a former lock base. The guide will also introduce you to plaice fishing. An ancestral fishing technique that allows you to enjoy fresh fish and shellfish at lunchtime!
A lunch of fresh produce and regional specialities
After a morning rich in discoveries, treat yourself to lunch in one of the many seafood restaurants lining the Baie de l’Aiguillon.
La Ponetere Restaurant in Charron offers a varied menu in a friendly atmosphere near the Bay. Enjoy fresh oysters, bouchot mussels or clams, accompanied by a glass of local white wine. The region’s seafood is renowned for its
freshness and delicate flavour, making them a culinary experience not to be missed.
A walk to explore the beauty of the Bay
After a delicious lunch break, head off to the bay’s salt meadows. The Baie de l’Aiguillon boasts a wide variety of landscapes: salt meadow mudflats, the banks of the Sèvre Niortaise river, dunes and pebble beaches at the tip of the bay. You’ll be amazed by the
beauty for you to admire.
Rent a bike and explore the salt marshes bordering the Baie de l’Aiguillon. Pedal along the quiet paths and admire the vast expanses of mudflats. The Baie de l’Aiguillon site offers several signposted itineraries for cyclists, hikers and even horseback riders!
Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Crossing the Baie de l’Aiguillon, you can learn more about oyster and mussel farming as you pass by the relay stations and oyster beds. You can also admire the unique flora that thrives in these saline environments.
As you walk along the seawall to the Pointe de la Baie de l’Aiguillon, you’ll be treated to an extraordinary view of the Port du Pavé de Charron. Don’t miss a walk along the coast to feel the gentle sea breeze caress your face in front of this exceptional landscape.
Visit a picturesque village
In the late afternoon, explore the town’s heritage and beaches on your way to L’Aiguillon-sur-Mer. This small commune is bordered by magnificent sandy beaches with turquoise waters.
A special evening in the Baie de l’Aiguillon
To make this unforgettable day last, book a table at one of L’Aiguillon-sur-Mer’s renowned restaurants. The Baie de l’Aiguillon is renowned for its refined cuisine featuring local produce. Let yourself be tempted by creative dishes based on fresh fish, seasonal vegetables and local produce. Pair your meal with a local wine and savor every bite in a warm, elegant atmosphere.
And if you’re staying to watch the sunset… Walk along the water’s edge to the Pointe d’Arçay love harbor. A rejuvenating and romantic place to end this unique day.
