Complete guide to the island of Noirmoutier
Are you staying at our Orée de l'Océan campsite? A remarkable getaway awaits you just 66 km away: the island of Noirmoutier. The jewel of the Côte de Lumière, this Atlantic gem is renowned for its microclimate, which has earned it the nickname " the island of mimosas ". Its varied landscapes, with sandy beaches, holm oak forests and salt marshes, make it a prime Vendée destination.
| Attraction | Ideal for... | Why we love | What to expect |
| Le Passage du Gois | Adventure and fishing on foot | A unique submersible route, a sight to behold at high tide. | Tide times, boots. |
| Le Bois de la Chaise | Walks and beaches | Maritime pines and beach huts (Plage des Dames). | Camera, towel. |
| The salt marshes | Discovering know-how | Graphic landscapes and encounters with salt producers. | Binoculars, walking shoes. |
| The Castle-Museum | History and panoramic views | A trip back in time with a breathtaking view of the island. | Admission, free time. |
| Port de l'Herbaudière | Gastronomy and marine ambience | Taste the day's catch in front of the fishing boats. | A budget for a tasting. |
| Cycle paths | Explore the island at your own pace | 83 km of trails to discover secret spots. | Bike, water bottle. |
How do I get to the island of Noirmoutier?
There are two ways to reach this jewel of the Vendée. The first is the free bridge that has linked it to the mainland since 1971. The second is a real experience: the Passage du Gois. This 4.2 km submersible road is unique in Europe. Please note that it can only be used at low tide.
Be sure to check the tide times before setting off. Creating your own itinerary for the island of Noirmoutier via the Gois adds a touch of adventure to your day. Watching the tide cover the causeway is a memorable moment.
What are the best beaches in Noirmoutier?
Tourism on the island of Noirmoutier is inextricably linked with its stretches of sand. With over 40 km of beaches on the island of Noirmoutier, the choice is vast, from wild coves to large family beaches. Each with its own character.
- La Plage des Dames: located in the Bois de la Chaise, this beach is famous for its white beach huts and its pier. A postcard setting.
- L'Anse Rouge: next to Plage des Dames, it boasts a lighthouse and a more intimate atmosphere.
- Plage des Sableaux: a large family beach, supervised in summer, perfect for water sports and sandcastles.
- La Plage de la Clère: appreciated for its natural setting, lined with pine trees, and its calm.
These places are perfect for relaxing after a morning touring the island of Noirmoutier.
What to do in Noirmoutier for nature lovers?
The island is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. With over 83 km of cycle paths and a very flat terrain, cycling is the ideal way to discover the natural treasures of the island of Noirmoutier. The salt marshes, which cover a third of the territory, are a must-see site. Here you can observe the flora and fauna specific to this environment, and the work of the salt workers who harvest Noirmoutier's famous salt.
The Polder de Sébastopol, classified as a Regional Nature Reserve, is another place of interest for ornithologists. It's a haven for hundreds of bird species. Grab your binoculars!
For a family outing, the Sealand Aquarium in the port of L'Herbaudière presents the marine life of the Atlantic. The Bois de la Chaise and the Bois des Eloux, with their holm oaks and maritime pines, offer pleasant shady walks.
What historical and cultural sites are there to see?
Visit maritime heritage is also a good reason to take an interest in attractions on the island of Noirmoutier. Le château de NoirmoutierThe 12th-century castle dominates the town. Today, it houses a museum retracing local history, from prehistory to seaside tourism. In the heart of the town, Hotel Jacobsena magnificent 18th-century shipowner's residence, has become a Maritime Heritage Center. Nearby, Saint-Philbert church is an example of Romanesque architecture. It features an 11th-century crypt where the monk who gave his name to the building was laid to rest. A stroll through the historic center of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île is an activity in itself.
Where to sample local flavours?
A guide to the island of Noirmoutier would not be complete without mentioning its gastronomy and terroir. The ports of L'Herbaudière(Vendée's leading fishing port for sole) and Le Bonhomme oyster port are the perfect places to sample fresh produce. Oyster farming has a long tradition here. Oysters, mussels, fish and shellfish are on the menu of many restaurants.
And don't miss the local market for Bonnotte, an early potato with a unique flavor, harvested only on the island in May.
What can you do in Noirmoutier in a day?
If you're short on time, here's a suggested top 5 for Noirmoutier:
- Foot fishing at Le Gois: at low tide, join the many lovers of cockles, clams and wild oysters on the foreshore. An authentic activity.
- A bike ride through the salt marshes: pedal between the carnations, along the étiers, and discover a landscape shaped by man and nature. A moment of absolute tranquility.
- An oyster tasting at Port du Bonhomme: sit back in an oyster farmer's shack and enjoy oysters straight from the producer, with a glass of local white wine.
- Stroll along the Herbaudière harbor: watch the return of the fishing boats and the hustle and bustle of the fish market.
- Admire the sunset from Plage des Dames: the perfect finale to an emotionally-charged day.
After a day rich in discoveries on the island of Noirmoutier, you'll appreciate the comfort of your accommodation at our l'Orée de l'Océan campsite. It's the ideal starting point for organizing your vacation in Noirmoutier and discovering the wonders of the Vendée coast.
