Unforgettable Adventures for Families in the Vendée
Discover the top 10 family-friendly adventures in the Vendée! From historical wonders to thrilling water parks and serene natural landscapes, these unforgettable experiences will create cherished memories for your family. Embark on an exciting journey filled with treasure hunts, beach bliss, wildlife encounters, and more. Start planning your fun-filled family holiday in the Vendée today!
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Welcome to the Vendée, a region brimming with exciting adventures for families! If you're planning a holiday with your school-age children, you're in for a treat. From historical wonders to thrilling water parks and stunning natural landscapes, the Vendée has it all. As a resident of the Vendée since 2006, I'm thrilled to share my top 10 unforgettable adventures that will create lasting memories for you and your family.
1: Exploring the Magical Grand Parc du Puy du Fou
Step back in to History
When it comes to historical immersion, Puy du Fou takes the crown. Step back in time and witness captivating shows featuring knights, Vikings, and ancient battles. The "Cinéscénie" night show is an absolute must-see, with thousands of performers bringing history to life. We were awestruck as we watched the grand spectacle unfold before our eyes.
When it comes to historical immersion, Puy du Fou takes the crown. Step back in time and witness captivating shows featuring knights, Vikings, and ancient battles. The "Cinéscénie" night show is an absolute must-see, with thousands of performers bringing history to life. We were awestruck as we watched the grand spectacle unfold before our eyes.
Click here to find out more about the Puy du Fou Park in the Vendée
2: Splashing Fun at O'Gliss Water Park
Make a splash with the family
Prepare for a day of non-stop fun at O'Gliss Water Park! With its exhilarating water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, this park is an absolute blast for the whole family. Chatting with our guests who had younger children, their little ones couldn't get enough of the mini splash area designed just for them, while the older children enjoyed the thrilling slides. Remember to pack sunscreen, towels, and plenty of snacks to keep the energy high!
Prepare for a day of non-stop fun at O'Gliss Water Park! With its exhilarating water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools, this park is an absolute blast for the whole family. Chatting with our guests who had younger children, their little ones couldn't get enough of the mini splash area designed just for them, while the older children enjoyed the thrilling slides. Remember to pack sunscreen, towels, and plenty of snacks to keep the energy high!
Image: Free from Copyright from the O'Gliss Park
Click here to find out more about the O'Gliss Water Park near Moutiers Les Mauxfaits
3: Discovering Wildlife at the Natur’Zoo in Mervent Forest
Up Close with Nature’s Wonders
For an unforgettable encounter with wildlife, head to the Natur’Zoo in the heart of the Mervent forest. Take a walk along the shady pathways where you can spot sleepy cheetahs in the undergrowth, curious lemurs, and playful tamarins up close. The highlight of our visit was seeing the red pandas – they were so cheeky! They loved climbing up and down the long branches of the trees and grabbing handfuls of the fruits that were put out for them – very messy eaters!
For an unforgettable encounter with wildlife, head to the Natur’Zoo in the heart of the Mervent forest. Take a walk along the shady pathways where you can spot sleepy cheetahs in the undergrowth, curious lemurs, and playful tamarins up close. The highlight of our visit was seeing the red pandas – they were so cheeky! They loved climbing up and down the long branches of the trees and grabbing handfuls of the fruits that were put out for them – very messy eaters!
Click here to find out more about the Natur'Zoo in the Mervent Forest
4: Exploring Nature at Marais Poitevin, the ‘Green Venice’
Serene Adventures in Nature
Escape into the serene beauty of Marais Poitevin, also known as the Green Venice. Hire a traditional flat-bottomed boat and navigate through the enchanting canals, surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife. We enjoyed a guided boat ride -watching birds feeding on the canal sides and listened to tales of the punter – including setting fire to the water! Don't forget to bring a picnic and make a day of it!
Escape into the serene beauty of Marais Poitevin, also known as the Green Venice. Hire a traditional flat-bottomed boat and navigate through the enchanting canals, surrounded by lush greenery and abundant wildlife. We enjoyed a guided boat ride -watching birds feeding on the canal sides and listened to tales of the punter – including setting fire to the water! Don't forget to bring a picnic and make a day of it!
Click here to find out more about the beautiful Marais Poitevin regional park
5: Thrills and Excitement at O'Fun Park
Fun for All Ages
O'Fun Park is a paradise for kids and adults alike. From exhilarating karting rides to paintballing and bumper cars, there's no shortage of entertainment here. We had a blast trying out the various attractions and flying through the trees on zip wires.
O'Fun Park is a paradise for kids and adults alike. From exhilarating karting rides to paintballing and bumper cars, there's no shortage of entertainment here. We had a blast trying out the various attractions and flying through the trees on zip wires.
Image: Free from Copyright from the O'Fun Park
6: Unwinding on the Beautiful Beaches of the Vendée
Beach Bliss for the Family
The Vendée boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in France. Spend a day building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging under the warm sun. Our favourite beach is Veillon Plage near to Talmont Saint Hilaire, with its golden sands, rock pools at low tide and lagoon for kite surfing. Kids love taking a dip here as the waves are not too big and the beach gently slopes into the sea. If you are feeling energetic, there is also a lovely coastal walk from the beach to Port Bourgenay – with cafés and restaurants at either end of the 3.5km trail.
The Vendée boasts some of the most picturesque beaches in France. Spend a day building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging under the warm sun. Our favourite beach is Veillon Plage near to Talmont Saint Hilaire, with its golden sands, rock pools at low tide and lagoon for kite surfing. Kids love taking a dip here as the waves are not too big and the beach gently slopes into the sea. If you are feeling energetic, there is also a lovely coastal walk from the beach to Port Bourgenay – with cafés and restaurants at either end of the 3.5km trail.
7: Exploring the Château des Aventuriers at St Cyr en Talmondais
Treasure Hunts and Castle Exploration
One of the highlights of a visit to Chateau des Aventuriers is the thrilling treasure hunt. Equipped with a map and clues, you embark on a quest to unravel the castle's mysteries. As you follow the trail, you will encounter hidden treasures and solve riddles, igniting your children's imagination and sense of adventure. You even get a medal at the end of the treasure hunt.
Beyond the treasure hunt, you can explore the nooks and crannies of the Chateau, discovering secret passageways and uncovering the chateau's fascinating history. The interactive exhibits allowed you to step into the shoes of medieval knights and noble ladies, immersing yourselves in a bygone era.
One of the highlights of a visit to Chateau des Aventuriers is the thrilling treasure hunt. Equipped with a map and clues, you embark on a quest to unravel the castle's mysteries. As you follow the trail, you will encounter hidden treasures and solve riddles, igniting your children's imagination and sense of adventure. You even get a medal at the end of the treasure hunt.
Beyond the treasure hunt, you can explore the nooks and crannies of the Chateau, discovering secret passageways and uncovering the chateau's fascinating history. The interactive exhibits allowed you to step into the shoes of medieval knights and noble ladies, immersing yourselves in a bygone era.
Click here to find out more about the Château des Aventuriers in Avrillé
8: Learning and Fun at the Historial de la Vendée Museum
Interactive Exhibits and Engaging Workshops
For a dose of education and entertainment, a visit to the Historial de la Vendée Museum is a must. This engaging museum offers interactive exhibits that vividly portray the region's rich history. From the prehistoric era to the present day - embarked on a captivating journey through time.
There are lots of hands-on activities and workshops designed specifically for children. They can dress up in historical costumes, try their hand at ancient crafts, and participate in interactive storytelling sessions at different times of the year. It is a fantastic way to ignite their curiosity and deepen their understanding of the Vendée's heritage.
For a dose of education and entertainment, a visit to the Historial de la Vendée Museum is a must. This engaging museum offers interactive exhibits that vividly portray the region's rich history. From the prehistoric era to the present day - embarked on a captivating journey through time.
There are lots of hands-on activities and workshops designed specifically for children. They can dress up in historical costumes, try their hand at ancient crafts, and participate in interactive storytelling sessions at different times of the year. It is a fantastic way to ignite their curiosity and deepen their understanding of the Vendée's heritage.
Click here to find out more about the Historial de la Vendée
9: Riding the Waves with Koa Surf School
Embrace the Surfing Culture
If your family loves adventure and the thrill of the ocean, head to Koa Surf School for an unforgettable surfing experience. Located along the Vendée's stunning coastline at Les Terrières Plage near to La Tranche sur Mer, this surf school offers lessons suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. The instructors are very friendly and some speak English.
If your family loves adventure and the thrill of the ocean, head to Koa Surf School for an unforgettable surfing experience. Located along the Vendée's stunning coastline at Les Terrières Plage near to La Tranche sur Mer, this surf school offers lessons suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. The instructors are very friendly and some speak English.
Click here to find out more about the Koa Surf School at La Tranche sur Mer
10: Experiencing the Magic of Île de Ré
Island Delights for the Family
For a real treat, we can never resist a visit to the enchanting Île de Ré. Known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, this island is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures.
You can rent bicycles and pedal along the scenic paths, passing through quaint villages and soaking up the island's natural beauty. Kids will have a blast exploring the hidden coves and collecting seashells along the pristine beaches. A visit to the island's lighthouse offers panoramic views that will take your breath away.
The Île de Ré is also famous for its delectable ice cream, and we couldn't resist indulging in some sweet treats as we strolled along the bustling promenades. Don’t forget to stop off for lunch at one of the amazing harbour side restaurants – serving locally caught seafood – with mussels and oysters as a speciality.
For a real treat, we can never resist a visit to the enchanting Île de Ré. Known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages, this island is a treasure trove of family-friendly adventures.
You can rent bicycles and pedal along the scenic paths, passing through quaint villages and soaking up the island's natural beauty. Kids will have a blast exploring the hidden coves and collecting seashells along the pristine beaches. A visit to the island's lighthouse offers panoramic views that will take your breath away.
The Île de Ré is also famous for its delectable ice cream, and we couldn't resist indulging in some sweet treats as we strolled along the bustling promenades. Don’t forget to stop off for lunch at one of the amazing harbour side restaurants – serving locally caught seafood – with mussels and oysters as a speciality.
In Conclusion…..
The Vendée is a paradise for families seeking fun-filled and family-friendly holidays. Whether you're immersing yourself in history at Puy du Fou, making a splash at the water parks, or exploring the region's natural wonders, there's something for everyone. From personal experience, I can assure you that these 10 adventures will create cherished memories that your family will treasure for a lifetime. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready for an incredible family holiday in the Vendée!
The Vendée is a paradise for families seeking fun-filled and family-friendly holidays. Whether you're immersing yourself in history at Puy du Fou, making a splash at the water parks, or exploring the region's natural wonders, there's something for everyone. From personal experience, I can assure you that these 10 adventures will create cherished memories that your family will treasure for a lifetime. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready for an incredible family holiday in the Vendée!
Now that you have read all about the amazing things that you could do on a holiday to the Vendée, it just remains for you to click on the button below to choose your holiday accommodation….
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