If you're staying at Camping Kabana Village in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, get ready for a unique getaway through the authentic landscapes of the Vendée. Today, we're taking you to discover the salt marshes, a fascinating natural and cultural heritage. On the programme: bike ride, gourmet picnic and immersion in the world of the salt marsh farmers. Let yourself be guided for a day.
First of all, remember to take water, a picnic, good shoes and sun protection: a cap and sun cream.
Morning: Cycling in the heart of nature
The sun is beginning to shine on the dunes and pine forests surrounding Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez. After breakfast on the campsite terrace, hop on your bike and set off on an adventure! In just 20 minutes from your campsite, you'll be on your way to the salt marshes.
The network of cycle paths in the Vendée is ideal for a safe getaway. From the campsite, take the Vélodyssée, which winds through forests, marshes and typical little villages. Along the way, take time to admire the local flora and fauna: grey herons, white egrets and other birds come to rest on the ponds lining the route. The iodised air and the sweet scent of wild immortelle accompany your progress towards the salt marshes.
The Vie salt marshes, located in Saint Gilles Croix de Vie, not far from Saint Hilaire de Riez, are the most beautiful salt marshes in the Vendée. They stretch for many kilometres, so take a stroll through them!
Lunchtime: take a break and enjoy a picnic at the water's edge
Before starting your tour of the marshes, what could be better than an outdoor lunch? Settle into a shady picnic area not far from the salt ponds.
On the menu: why not try some of the local specialities? Go and buy some at the market in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez. Enjoy your meal made with local produce, such as a nice crusty baguette, Vendée ham and mature cheeses. For dessert, a Vendée brioche accompanied by home-made apple juice completes this typical regional feast.
While you relax, let yourself be lulled by birdsong and the whisper of the wind caressing the reeds.
Afternoon: Dive into the world of the salt marshes
The time has come to enter the fascinating world of the sauniers, the salt craftsmen who perpetuate an ancestral know-how. Welcomed by a passionate guide, you will discover the history of the salt marshes, their ecological role and the techniques used to extract the white gold of the ocean.
The stages in the harvesting process are explained in detail: seawater is pumped into the basins, the salt is gradually evaporated by the sun and wind, and the salt crystallises. The highlight of the show? Watching the harvesting of the salt flower, the fine crystals that form on the surface and are carefully collected by hand.
Children (and the more curious) can even get their hands dirty and try their hand at manipulating the long las, the traditional tool of the salt workers. It's a fun and rewarding experience that allows visitors to appreciate all the patience and know-how required for this age-old activity.
Before you leave, a little tasting is offered: a few grains of fleur de sel melt on the tongue, revealing all their subtlety. You can also buy a bag of salt directly from the producer, an authentic souvenir to take home with you.
At the end of the day: a relaxing evening at the campsite
After this wonderful afternoon of learning and discovery, it's time to get back on the road to Kabana Village. The return bike ride goes smoothly, with memories of this day rich in images and sensations.
Back at the campsite, why not take advantage of the swimming pool or relax in the bar with a cool drink? In the evening, you can socialise with other holidaymakers over a friendly barbecue, sharing your impressions of this timeless day.
Why choose this excursion?
- A 100% nature outing accessible to all
- An authentic and immersive discovery of the profession of salt producer
- A day combining soft sports, food and culture.
- An easy tour from Camping Kabana Village.
