Exploring The Exclusive Vendée Islands Part I: Noirmoutier

Known for the salt produced locally, the salt marshes are spread over one third of the island. The salt is one of the island’s main assets since the 16^th century. The sauniers – workers harvesting the salt – offer the possibility to visit the marshes while explaining the whole process of their work. It is an ancestral expertise; the salt is collected manually, as the tradition dictates. Today, there are more than 100 sauniers on the island waiting to share their experience with you. The settings are unique, and definitely worth visiting!

Another great advantage of Noirmoutier is the possibility to bike everywhere. No cars or metro cards needed! When staying on the island, the only two things you will need are: a bike, and some sunscreen. If you don’t have a bike, then its fine! You can rent one in any town of the island. Noirmoutier has more than 80 kilometres of bicycle lanes; since the topography of the island is levelled, the bike rides are open to everyone. So, either accompanied by friends or family, rent a bike, see some sights, and make memories!

This laid-back oyster bar is set in the middle of the marshes. It is the perfect spot to enjoy some freshly caught oysters or seafood platters, on their outdoor terrace. Friendly, spacious, and cozy; the restaurant is ideally placed at the heart of the island on top of all those qualities. The décor is perfectly paired with the atmosphere of the oyster bar, and the ambiance will make you feel at ease. We vividly recommend trying this serene and festive bar, mainly known by locals.

A must-eat in Noirmoutier! This cozy little place is both a café and a restaurant, adored equally by locals and tourists. Overlooking the channel, Le Café Noir is in the middle of the island’s most active town. Near the outdoor market, and the carousel, appreciate a much-needed coffee break or a simple lunch on their terrace. The interior is beautifully decorated and modern, which gives the bistro an overall refined look. All year long, enjoy some delicious oysters, beef tartar, warm goat cheese salad, and codfish. The whole dining experience is encapsulated in a pleasant ambiance.

This luxurious hotel is ideally placed in the middle of the island, near Le Café Noir, overlooking the channel. Set in an 18^th century edifice, the hotel offers 25 well-lit, and beautifully decorated rooms. Enjoy the festive garden – with a view on the ancient church – and a heated pool in the center of it. The most important thing on vacation is treating yourself, this four-star hotel offers the possibility to relax in the renowned Nuxe spa, including: a steam room, sauna, showers…etc. Charm, luxury, and serenity; come unwind at this beautiful seaside hotel!

Did you say camping or glamping? Established near the beach in a soothing environment, Camping Le Midi mixes the comfort of a hotel, the originality of camping, and the sheer beauty of natural landscapes. The camping site offers a peaceful vacation in an exceptional setting. Staying with friends, family, or your significant other? Enjoy Camping Sandaya Domaine Le Midi’s high-end advantages: tennis courts, heated pools (interior or exterior,) play areas for children, free bikes, and many more services. You can either come with your camping-car or enjoy the camping’s rental properties, including: cottages, or mobile homes. The rentals are fully equipped (bar, kitchen, dressing…etc.,) modern and spacious. Either near the beach or in the forest, choose your cottage depending on preference. Come and glamp at this lavish open-air resort!

Eve stayed in Noirmoutier for 3 weeks.