Located in the Vendée, the isle of Noirmoutier is a must-see destination for lovers of nature, beaches and maritime traditions. For holidaymakers at camping Kabana Village, a getaway to this charming island promises a day full of discovery and pleasure. Here's an ideal programme to make the most of everything Noirmoutier has to offer.
A magical entrance via the Passage du Gois or the Noirmoutier bridge
There are two options for getting to Noirmoutier:
- The Noirmoutier bridge, accessible all year round, takes you to the island in just a few minutes.
- The Passage du Gois, a submersible road unique in the world, which can be discovered at low tide and offers an impressive spectacle. If you're lucky enough to cross it, take a break to watch the fishermen on foot collecting clams and cockles.
From the campsite, it will take you around 40 minutes to reach the island. Once there, head to Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, the historic heart, to start the day.
Nature and culture morning: Chateau, salt marshes and Bois de la Chaise
Start with a visit to the Château de Noirmoutier, a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century, which today houses a museum tracing the history of the island. From the ramparts, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île and its surroundings.
Next, head for the salt marshes, where you can watch the salt workers at work. Guided tours are organised to understand the ancestral art of salt harvesting and discover the famous sel de Noirmoutier, an emblematic product of the island.
Then head for the Bois de la Chaise, an enchanting natural site with its holm oaks and iconic beach huts. Here, the Plage des Dames, with its fine sand and turquoise waters, is one of the most beautiful spots for a photo break or a morning swim.
Gourmet break in a typical restaurant
Noirmoutier is bursting with good places to sample local produce. For lunch, here are a few recommendations:
- Le Grand Four (Noirmoutier-en-l'Île): a gourmet restaurant where seafood is sublimated with finesse.
- La Table d'Élise (Noirmoutier-en-l'Île): a cosy address where you can sample local specialities such as sole meunière or bar en croûte de sel.
- L'Her du Temps (L'Épine): perfect for a lunch on the go with tartines featuring fresh, local produce.
Be sure to try the famous pommes de terre de Noirmoutier, renowned for their unique flavour, as well as oysters and bouchot mussels, bred on the island.
Activities between sea and nature
Noirmoutier is ideal for a bike ride, with numerous cycle paths skirting the marshes and dunes. Hire a bike and set off to discover the Port de l'Herbaudière, a charming fishing port where you can watch the boats return from fishing and stop for an artisanal ice cream.
For water sports enthusiasts, there are several options to choose from:
- Hire a paddle or kayak to explore the coast and discover secret coves.
- Set off on a sailboat excursion from the port of Noirmoutier for an unforgettable outing at sea.
If you prefer relaxation, head for the Plage de Luzéronde, renowned for its wild dunes and crystal-clear water. Further south, the village of La Guérinière offers a magnificent view of the ocean and offshore wind turbines.
Late afternoon and sunset: an aperitif with your feet in the sand
To end the day in style, settle in at the Plage des Sableaux or l'Anse Rouge to admire a magnificent sunset over the Atlantic.
If you want to extend the pleasure, several beach bars offer the perfect setting for a apéritif with your feet in the sand. These include:
- Le Bikini Beach (Plage des Dames): cocktails, tapas and a chill atmosphere facing the sea.
- La Cabane d'Adrien (L'Herbaudière): perfect for sipping a drink as you watch the sun set over the harbour.
