Road Trip in Vendée: 5 must-see places
to do in vanlife 


Planning a vanlife road trip in the 85? The Vendée is a magnificent region not to be missed on a vanlife road trip in France. With its many natural spots, you'll be able to discover plenty of rejuvenating places on board your converted car. We promise you'll enjoy these 5 vanlife spots in the Vendée!

Noirmoutier Island & l'île d'Yeu

It's impossible to talk about a road trip in the Vendée without mentioning the islands of Noirmoutier and Yeu. These islands have preserved their natural, unspoilt areas for a rejuvenating stay. They're a must-see in the 85 for a breath of fresh air in a converted van! You can reach the island of Noirmoutier via the famous Passage du Gois, a submersible road that becomes accessible at low tide. You'll fall under the spell of its fine sandy beaches, beautiful fishing villages and salt marshes. We recommend that you leave your van in Noirmoutier and take a shuttle to the Ile d'Yeu. It's up to you to explore the roads of this haven of peace by bike. Yes, when you go to Noirmoutier or Ile d'Yeu, cycling is a must! Explore the wild creeks, coastal paths and charming towns for a totally relaxing experience.

Where to bivouac in Noirmoutier?

road trip van 85 noirmoutier ile yeu
stay vendée vanlife sables d'olonne

Les Sables-d'Olonne For a successful road trip in Vendée

How can you experience vanlife in the Vendée without passing through Les Sables-d'Olonne, a surfer's paradise? Whether you're looking for a sporty break with your surfboard, or a lazy one with your beach towel and a good book, the great sunny beaches of Les Sables-d'Olonne are sure to mark this stage of your journey! 

Whether you're looking for a lively evening stroll along the embankment, a surprise in the La Chaume district or a spot of green in the Olonne-sur-Mer forest, this land and sea destination has it all. 

Where to bivouac in Les Sables-d'Olonne?

The Marais Poitevin

Make way for nature with the Marais Poitevin, nicknamed the "Green Venice". Here, you can immerse yourself in an exceptional nature reserve and cruise through the canals in a boat or kayak. It's your turn to go for a hike or go fishing! There's no doubt about it: a vanlife road trip in the Marais Poitevin in the Vendée will introduce you to a wide range of landscapes and provide you with an absolutely unique experience. Admire the peaceful landscapes, watch the birds and let the magic of the marshes work its magic.

Where to bivouac in the Marais Poitevin?

locations vendée vanlife marais poitevin
Vanlife Vendée Forêt Mervent Vouvant

The Forest of Mervent-Vouvant

Don't miss the largest forest in the Vendée during your road trip in the 85 region in a converted minivan! This magnificent forest is a 5,000-hectare natural gem where you can recharge your batteries and enjoy a wide range of activities. Stroll along the forest paths, discover the lakes and rivers, and enjoy the tranquility of this unspoilt area. You'll have just as much fun cruising on Lake Mervent in an electric boat, canoe or paddle as you will strolling through the forest on foot, mountain bike or even horseback. And if you're on a family outing in a van, the zoo and accrobranche are just waiting for you!

Where to bivouac in the Forêt de Mervent-Vouvant?

Vanlife in Vendée : Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

Ah Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie! This small coastal town has an authentic charm and maritime atmosphere that's sure to win you over. Its large port and the old Saint-Gilles district are interesting and invigorating places to visit during your Vendée road trip. Between its moored fishing boats and fine sandy beaches, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is a real gem on the Vendée coast, and a perfect stopover for lovers of the beach, gastronomy and the maritime atmosphere. Don't miss the Corniche Vendéenne, which starts here!

Where to bivouac in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie?

Road trip Vendée Saint Gilles croix de vie

Now you're ready to set off on a vanlife road trip in the Vendée, without missing out on the 85 region's must-sees, with several places to sleep peacefully in a converted van. We wish you a great trip on the roads of the Vendée!

blog posts that might interest you