What I loved most about visiting Les Sables d’Olonne (apart from its incredible beaches, impressive port, fantastic food and the salt marshes of the nearby Ile d’Olonne) is that it still feels like a well-kept secret. With 95% of its visitors coming from within France, it’s a beloved beachside escape for the French but remains largely under the radar for international travellers. That is, unless you’re part of the yachting world or familiar with the legendary Vendée Globe yacht race.
Why it’s time to rediscover Sables d’Olonne
It was not always this way. Les Sables d’Olonne and the Vendée, located in Western France, were once historically significant for the British. Back in the 12th century, Henry II and Richard the Lionheart were doing what medieval kings did then: waging wars, ransacking territories, and constructing huge, imposing castles.
Somewhere along the way, we lost touch with this part of the world—and honestly, I’d never even heard of Les Sables d’Olonne until now. Though after hearing about the antics of my ancestral kings, I’m more than happy to lean into my dual nationality and declare myself not British, but proudly Australian!
A city of adventure
Les Sables d’Olonne deserves a spot on everyone’s Continental holiday map, with one caveat: it’s best to visit out of season. As I mentioned, it is popular, and we discovered this firsthand during a busy holiday weekend in May. However, even in high season, if you love nature, adventure, and wonderful beaches, you can always wander further afield to find the calm. Read on to discover what we found to see, do and love here at this wonderful seaside town.
Les Sables d’Olonne is the yachting centre for France’s Atlantic coast and the host town for the start and finish of probably the most exacting and demanding yacht race of them all, the Vendée Globe.
Vendée Globe
For those not in the know, this is the single-handed yacht race that circles the globe where sailors are not allowed to touch land, have any external support or even communicate with their families. This extreme quest of individual endurance sounds impossible to me; it is regarded as the ultimate test in ocean racing.
The Vendée Globe dominates everything in Les Sables d’Olonne – pictures, posters, plaques, and promotional material are everywhere. It also means that for those who want to lean into their inner adventurer, there is much to do.
The Town
The town is a surprise. When you see it arriving from afar, it is the glorious bay that catches your eye. Along its sprawling edge, a hodgepodge of development, ranging from stylish beachfront villas to rather ordinary apartments and office buildings. It’s not a flashy town, but it is an authentic town.
At its heart, you’ll find remnants of its industrial past: towering silos and shipbuilding structures still standing in the centre, a nod to its legacy of canneries and maritime industry. Wander its streets and you’ll stumble across bursts of character and creativity, with art tucked into unexpected corners.
A 2km channel runs through the heart of Les Sables d’Olonne, separating the characterful streets of La Chaume from the lively Le Remblai town centre. This waterway connects directly to the fishing port, commercial port, and Port Olona marina, bringing the sea right into the town’s core.
Fabulous seafood and local gastronomy are at the heart of any stay in Les Sables d’Olonne, with the day’s catch served up fresh from the sea. Time your visit well, and you’ll also find the town buzzing with one of its many vibrant festivals or major events.
The Beaches
The Vendée coastline boasts 140 km of the most beautiful sandy beaches in western France, with Les Sables d’Olonne boasting 25 km of this, with no less than seven beaches to explore. It’s no wonder it’s a popular summer haunt, whether you are a family off to enjoy the gently sloping beaches or a water sport and surf enthusiast, these beaches have much to offer.
Whilst the Grande Plage gets busy in the summer season, there is plenty of space for all, especially if you are prepared to check out some of the out-of-town beaches.
To check out all the beaches, see: www.destination-lessablesdolonne.co.uk/the-beaches
Grande Plage
Definitely the star of the beach show, this 3 km beach is renowned for swimming, sunbathing and people watching! I was transfixed by groups of people water walking through the shallows, apparently it’s quite the thing here.
To view the Grand Plage and admire its scale, a live webcam view is available here.
Plage de Tanchet
Located just south of the main bay, Plage Tanchet is a favourite with surfers and bodyboarders thanks to its rolling Atlantic waves. Framed by rugged rocks and a more laid-back atmosphere, it’s also popular with families seeking a quieter alternative to Grande Plage. It’s a great choice if you are staying at Côte Ouest, which overlooks the beach.
Plage de la Paracou
If you’re after a more natural and wilder beach than the main city beach, try Plage de la Paracou tucked away behind the La Chaume district of Les Sables d’Olonne.
Fringed by dunes and rocky outcrops, it’s perfect for peaceful walks, picnics, or beachcombing at low tide. Less suited for swimming, it’s a favourite spot for locals who come to explore the tide pools or enjoy a quieter stretch of coastline.
Wandering Sables d’Olonne – Seeing the Sights of the Town
Sables d’Olonne is still very much a working town, and the juxtaposition of industry and tourism is marked in the heart of the town. The port, huge grain silos, sand mountains, the trawler fleet and fish market stand side by side with the yacht marina, the Grande Plage, restaurants and bars.
We recommend getting to know two areas of the town, La Chaume and Le Remblai, which are separated from each other by the Passage, a sea channel that provides access to the port areas of Olona (for pleasure boats) and the Port de Peche (for working boats).
La Chaume
A wander in La Chaume is a must! Check out the Tourist Board’s self-guided heritage walk: Route through the heart of La Chaume.
La Chaume, on the left bank, is the old fishermen’s area that has gentrified over time, but still features small fishermen’s cottages, narrow streets, and bars. Do not miss a stop to admire the street art in Place Saint-Anne. It’s murals depicting the life of the neighbourhood painted by the artist, Manfred Landreau.
Restaurants now populate the quay (Quai George V) scroll down to see where we enjoyed to eat. As you walk towards the sea, you pass the imposing Arundel Tower, a 15th-century stronghold built on the site of a castle built for the Duke of Arundel in the 12th century at the time of Richard the Lionheart.
From there, continue towards the red lighthouse on the seawall, past the grand Villa Charlotte, King Albert 1st Street (currently being restored to open as a conference centre) and the ancient Prieure Saint Nicolas. Both are spectacular buildings with fabulous views that are now owned by the town.
Villa Charlotte
Villa Charlotte is currently being renovated and will open as a conference centre. Its beautiful gardens are open to the public throughout the year.
Address: King Albert 1st Street, 85100 LES SABLES-D’OLONNE
Prieure Saint Nicolas
The striking Priory of Saint-Nicolas dates back to the 12th century. You can’t miss it by the entrance to the port and protected by two long piers built in the 18th century, the priory is flanked by seven 18th-century cannons and offers a superb view across the bay. Its Romanesque architecture—characterised by elegant arched vaults and finely cut stone—speaks to the craftsmanship of its time.
Today, the priory is open year-round and hosts exhibitions and temporary events.
Address: Promenade Jean XXIII, 85100 LES SABLES-D’OLONNE
Website: www.destination-lessablesdolonne.co.uk/sit/prieure-saint-nicolas
Market days La Chaume
Street market: Thursdays and Sundays from 8 am to 1 pm.
We always love to check out market days – we popped into the covered market, which was built in 1951 on the site of the former La Chaume washhouse.
Covered food market: Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday from 8 am to 1 pm. In July and August, from Tuesday to Sunday, including public holidays.
Phare de L’Armandeche
If you are feeling up to it, carry on around the coast, past the Polynesian Totems and the protected waters of Dombret Basin, to find Phare de L’Armandeche, the last lighthouse built in France, dating from 1968.
The tourist office offers occasional themed tours to discover more about the maritime signalling structures, including the Armandèche Lighthouse. Details here.
Le Remblai
We also enjoyed wandering Le Remblai, the tourism centre of the town, facing onto the Grande Plage’s pristine sand that forms the social hub of the town. The Remblai, much of which is pedestrianised, is the place to be seen in Les Sables d’Olonne, and the clock tower is a renowned meeting place overlooking the beach.
For our route, check out the Tourist Board’s self-guided heritage walk: Route through the heart of Le Remblai.
Behind the beachfront you have some ornate villas – the most famous one being Maison Clementina next to Place Navarin, the ornate covered market (currently being renovated) and the town church, Notre Dame de Bon-Port, an imposing building built in the late 17th century under the auspices of the powerful Cardinal Richelieu who later became Louis XIII’s Chief Minister of France.
If you get a chance, pop into La Sablaise cannery to pick up the regional specialities like fish soups, seafood spreads, fish marinades, and fish sauces.
Address: La Sablaise Cannery, Actilonne Park, Allée Alain Gautier, 85340 LES SABLES D’OLONNE
Rue de l’Enfer
Hell Street (Rue de l’Enfer) is another quirky find. As found in the Guinness Book of Records, it’s entry boasts the narrowest road in the world.
Address: 52 Rue des Halles, Street of Hell, 85100 LES SABLES-D’OLONNE
L’Ile Penot
One of the main must-see attractions in the area is L’Ile Penotte, where many houses are decorated with the shell art of artist Daniele Arnaud-Aubin. She began working in this area in 1997 and has since created murals on numerous homes in this small, intimate neighbourhood.
The Le Remblai city centre walk is found here.
What else to do in Sables d’Olonne
Sea promenades in the bay
We sadly didn’t get out on the water; however, two companies have been recommended to us:
Messaline, which offers both sea fishing and a one-hour guided sea trip, and is found at: Quai René Guiné, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne
P’tit Natien, which also offers a cruise along the Vendée coast, a sunset trip with an aperitif dinner, or a sea fishing session! Owned by a paralympian and Vendée native, Kevin Cantin.
Address: Ponton de la Capitainerie du Port de Plaisance, Quai Emmanuel Garnier, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne.
Watersports
Sailing may be the big game in town, but surfing and wave sports also figure large, given we are on the Atlantic coast and the next stop is the US. So if water sports are you’re passion, there is plenty of choice.
Octopus Glisse
Plage des Granges – Olonne sur Mer
Plage des Granges beach is found in the middle of the dunes. It is such a contrast to the main beach in Les Sables d’Olonne, yet it is only around 8 kilometres away. Rugged, undeveloped and empty, it reminded us of many of the beaches back in Australia.
Granges is also one of the region’s top surf beaches (along with Tanchet beach above) and the home of Octopus Glisse, a surf school run by Caroline and Mathieu.
Apart from surfing, the school also teaches waveski and SUP (Stand Up Paddle for those who don’t speak beach talk) and caters to all ages, from tiddlers to pensioners. Both Caro and Mat are multiple waveski world champions, so you know you are in good hands.
Do you know they proudly offer Senior Surf Lessons? I was surprisingly nervous, although with no real need, the most challenging part was squeezing myself into my wetsuit and launching myself into the cold Atlantic waters. Grange Beach is great for beginners, offering plenty of beach space, and the waves closer to shore are not too scary. We had a great time with our instructor, Baptiste, who deserves commendation for his limitless patience and good humour.
Address: Plage des Granges / La Gachère / Olonne sur Mer 85340 LES SABLES D’OLONNE
Website: www.octopusglisse.com
Cycling
Les Sables d’Olonne is a cycling paradise, boasting well-established cycle routes throughout the town and its surrounding countryside. The Vendée Vélo route runs through the town – this is a 700-kilometre circular route that takes in many of the most enchanting, beautiful, and well-known spots in the Vendée department.
There are also shorter cycle routes around the neighbourhood that take you to the beaches, the forest and the salt marshes. We had a fabulous afternoon with Anthony from Libert E Trott as he took us on a laid-back 25km tour of the salt marshes, local villages, the canal, forest, and Paracou beach.
Libert E Trott has around 200 bikes, including both classic and electric models, as well as e-scooters and a vast range of two-wheeled vehicles and their accessories.
Address: 8 Quai Ernest de Franqueville, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne.
Website: www.libert-e-trott.fr
Hiking
There is a wide choice for hiking from Coastal paths and Beach walks, enjoying views of the Atlantic Ocean on the southern coast (corniche du Puits d’Enfer, Baie de Cayola …) to forest hikes exploring the Olonne forest.
For the full range of water sports and leisure activities, including parasailing, golf, and many kinds of sports: see www.destination-lessablesdolonne.co.uk/sports-et-loisirs-aux-sables-dolonne
Fancy a Thalasso Spa Day?
Much of life revolves around the Atlantic Ocean in Les Sables d’Olonne and nowhere so than the Ocean-inspired Thalasso treatments at Côte Ouest. You can read all about our treatments here and why they should be included in any time spent in the town here.
Further afield, outside Les Sables d’Olonne
L’Île-d’Olonne
This area was once an island surrounded by marshes, which helped to preserve its natural beauty. Found 10 km from Sables d’Olonne, steeped in nature, it is worth a visit.
Salt Marshes
L’Île-d’Olonne, once home to salt workers, is a wonderful place for a walk or to explore by bike. It feels little changed for generations and will charm you with its authentic character. You will find various shacks where you can buy salt directly from the producer.
D’Olonne Bird Observatory
We attended the Ile d’Olonne bird observatory during an open day, which allowed us to view the 300 species of birds on the wetlands from special shelters. There were experts on hand to introduce us to the birds we saw in the 38 hectares of marshland, and binoculars strategically placed to give us the best up-close view of the birds in the marshland.
Address: Access rue de la Vertonne (D38), 85340 L’ILE-D’OLONNE
From July 1st to August 31st: from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Website: www.adev-asso.fr/lobservatoire-doiseaux
Puits d’Enfer
One of the most popular sites in the area is Puits d’Enfer. This deep fault is about 30 meters long in the cliff. Best to plan your trip at high tide for the spectacular rush of crashing sea water. There is easy access with a car park, but be warned: there’s nothing to stop you from falling into the so-called Well of Hell!
Address: 85180 Les Sables-d’Olonne
Website: www.lessablesdolonne.fr/le-puits-denfer
Vineyards
As no French hotel feels complete without some winetasting, a couple of local vineyards came highly recommended, Domaine Des Granges, which is conveniently combined with surfing at Plage des Granges at Olonne-sur-Mer and Domaine Sainte Nicholas in L’Ile d’Olonne.
Day Trips from Les Sables d’Olonne
We spent plenty of time in the region, enjoying longer stays on the island at Île de Ré, wandering La Rochelle and visiting both the Museum of Vendée history and had a marvellous day at Puy du Fou. All are highly recommended.
- Île d’Yeu
- La Rochelle & Île de Ré
- Historial de la Vendée
- Read our Guide to Puy du Fou historical theme park – not to be missed.
Where to eat in Les Sables d’Olonne
Eating is an absolute delight in Sables d’Olonne. We were thrilled by the quality of the food during our stay, and prices are very reasonable. As we have advised before, lunch is a great time to eat when the Plat du Jour is brilliant value. We had loads of good meals and would heartily recommend the following:
Remblai side
La Cotriade
As mentioned in the Michelin Guide, this is a great choice for fish lovers, sitting on the quayside facing the fishing port. The menu offers a wonderful seafood menu with the fish and shellfish prepared outside on the quay.
Address: 18 Quai Emmanuel Gernier, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne
Website: https://restaurant-la-cotriade.com
Cesar et Rosalie
We chose this restaurant because it was open on Monday lunchtime when many were shut, a great choice for a casual lunch! Such a warm, friendly welcome. This relaxed restaurant is waterfront, with a popular terrace. It offers a wide-ranging menu that was both delicious and very good value.
Address: 7 Quai Emmanuel Garnier, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne.
Website: https://cesaretrosalie-restaurant.com
Croqu’ Galette
If, like us, there is just too much to see, do and love to take time out for a lingering lunch some days, then Croqu’ Galette is the perfect French fast food. You can order to take to the beach or dine in – there is upstairs seating too. No photos as I wolfed it down – yummy!
Address: 2 bis Rue Travot, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne, France
Website: www.facebook.com/people/Croqu-Galette
Amanda Chocolaterie – Salon de Thé
This was my favourite flop and drop, I need a cuppa tea room great for brunch or just cake (or a chocolate sardine or seagull!) facing the ocean, overlooking the Bay. We went a couple of times, I loved the Art Deco styling with views from the terrace down to the beach and overlooking the beautiful seaside villa Palazzo Clementina.
Address: 2 Place de la Resistance, 85100, Les Sables-d’Olonne France
Website: https://amandalessablesdolonne.fr/
La Chaume side
Bédame
Bustling and busy (so booking essential). Slightly more expensive but extensive, imaginative menu. Overlooking the water, indoor and outdoor seating
Address: 26 Quai George V, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne.
Website: https://www.bedame-restaurant.com
Le Fatra
A well-run restaurant with high-quality and beautifully presented food. Warm, attentive service, indoor and outdoor dining overlooking the port. The lunchtime menu was €23.50
Address: 21 Quai George V, La Chaume, 85100 Les Sables d’Olonne
Website: www.le-fatra.com
We also had two excellent meals, a little more out of town, which are well worth the journey:
La Folie
La Folie is a beach club with a large, informal restaurant overlooking Plage Tanchet, the surf beach located to the east of town. Great sea views to match a delicious meal.
Address: 2 Av. Nina d’Asty, 85180, Les Sables-d’Olonne.
Website: www.restaurantfoliebeach.com
Restaurant Cote Ouest – located at the swish Cote Ouest Thalasso & Spa hotel, a few minutes outside the main town, close to the zoo and overlooking Tanchet beach, offering fabulous sunset dining with views out to sea.
This is more of a splurge, but it’s worth it for a special event. Primarily seafood, along with all the seasonal products, and desserts that knock the ball out of the park, featuring chantilly cream and chocolate everywhere. We had a fabulous and memorable evening here.
Address: Rte du Tour de France, 85100 Les Sables-d’Olonne, France
Website: www.hotel-coteouest.com/fr/restaurant
Alice, le bistrot – Le Manoir de la Mortière
A great choice for a special Sunday lunch, as featured in the Michelin Guide, this was one of our top meals while staying in Les Sables d’Olonne, which is saying something, as meal after meal was of extremely high quality.
Dejeuner Lunch menu: 28 euros (3 dishes) on Tuesday – Saturday, not on holidays, is worth checking out. They were fabulous, catering to my special dietary needs.
Address: 1 rue Eugène Nauleau, Center of Bourg d’Olonne sur Mer, 85340 Les Sables d’Olonne
Website: https://lemanoirdelamortiere.com/fr/alice-le-bistrot.html
There are two restaurants here at Le Manoir: the other is the refined dining experience at GAIA, their gastronomy restaurant, which looks amazing too.
Vincent Valée Chocolaterie
It was a local suggestion to visit the exquisite world of exceptional chocolate with Vincent Vallée, recognised as the world’s best chocolatier from a previous award. Found on an Industrial estate, I can see why the French stop by here as part of their souvenir shopping – it ain’t cheap though!
Website: https://vincentvallee.shop
Address: 2B allee Titouan Lamazou, 85340 Olonne sur Mer, Les Sables-d’Ollone
Where to stay in Sables d’Olonne
Boutique & luxury options
Côte Ouest
Located on the Atlantic coast in Les Sables d’Olonne, Côte Ouest Thalasso & Spa Hotel is often described as the best stay in town. It’s fun, quirky and has been designed to evoke the spirit of a vintage cruise ship. From the moment you arrive, you’re transported to a bygone era of travel—think polished wood, art deco details, and rooms inspired by the elegant cabins of ocean liners.
Rooms with a View
The hotel offers 97 rooms, including three suites, each styled with a subtle nautical nod. You can choose between rooms overlooking the tranquil forest, nah – if you can afford it, splash out for those with uninterrupted views across the bay of Les Sables d’Olonne.
We were lucky enough to try both during our stay, but I have to admit, waking up to that shimmering ocean view was hard to beat. There’s something so soothing about watching the distant waves roll in from your balcony.
Wellness by the Sea
What sets Côte Ouest apart is its renowned Thalasso & Spa centre. With a full menu of wellness treatments based on the healing properties of seawater, it’s the perfect place to relax, recharge, and let the stress melt away.
There’s also both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, meaning you can take a dip whatever the weather. After a morning in the spa or a coastal walk, it’s the perfect way to unwind.
Food with a View
Breakfasts here are a real treat, with plenty of fresh, local produce and all the French breakfast favourites you’d expect. In the evenings, the hotel’s Escape Restaurant and Bar Lounge is the place to be. Overlooking the ocean, it’s the ideal spot for a sunset cocktail or leisurely dinner as the sun dips below the horizon.
For more, see the upcoming Hotel review of Côte Ouest.
Best hotels for couples, families & solo travellers
Hôtel Vertime
Modern Comfort Overlooking the Marina in Les Sables-d’Olonne
Hôtel Vertime is a solid choice for a short break in Les Sables-d’Olonne, especially if you’re planning to make the most of the region’s cycle paths. This hotel delivers convenience, comfort, and marina views in a fresh, stylish package.
Rooms & Amenities
The rooms are modern and well-appointed, although if you can, opt for a marina-facing room. Our room overlooked the car park, which wasn’t particularly inspiring. But inside, everything was clean, contemporary, and comfortable.
Upstairs, the rooftop bar is a real highlight. It offers great views across the boats and out to the water—perfect for a sundowner after a day of exploring. There’s also a very small rooftop plunge pool, which adds a bit of luxury, even if it’s more for dipping than swimming laps!
Dining with a View
We chose to dine in the hotel’s La Table Vertime restaurant and we were pleasantly surprised. The menu was good value, and the food exceeded expectations—nicely presented, full of flavour, and served in a relaxed setting overlooking the marina.
Address: 12 Boulevard de l’llw Vertime, 85100 Les Sables d’Olonne
Website: https://vertime-lessables.com
Budget-friendly stays & unique rentals
The Originals Boutique, Hôtel Admiral’s
Of the three hotels we stayed in, this one hands down wins the award for the friendliest reception and welcome greeting. A standout from our stay was the fabulous orientation complete with must-see ideas and restaurant suggestions, as good as in any Tourist Information Centre.
Our Family room, with a harbour view, was spacious and cleverly designed, with a separate bunk bed area for any children and a comfortable king-sized bed.
We liked staying on the La Chaume side of the channel, which seemed quieter. There is a ferry stop across to Le Remblai, close to the hotel. Outside the hotel, parking was easy and plentiful.
This three-star hotel offers views overlooking Port Olona Marina. (It’s worth noting that the grass and surrounding buildings between the hotel and the marina appear a little shabby, but don’t let that put you off!) For the price, location, and room, this hotel is a good, solid choice.
Address: Boulevard du Souvenir Français, 85100, Les Sables-d’Olonne
Website: www.admiralhotel.fr/en
Room Tour via IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/DMyIZp5sV-b
Special Events in Les Sables D’Olonne
Les Sables is working hard to become a year-round destination, offering a range of activities, including special events by the water. We were there during the Vendée Va’a, a time when the city dances into the Polynesian spirit —a great event featuring Polynesian canoe races and a traditional Polynesian village.
We were happy that our visit coincided with the annual Vendée-Va’a, where Tahiti takes over the town as Hawaii 50 outriggers race around offshore.
The one I’m looking forward to is the first-ever WTA 125 Women’s International Tennis tournament Les Sables-d’Olonne, Vendée. WTA Women’s International Tennis Open February 16-22, 2026 Arena Stadium.
Getting to Sables d’Olonne
The one big reason the Brits don’t know Les Sables d’Olonne is that it’s a trip to get here! Found on the Atlantic coast of western France, you have several options:
Flying
The closest Airports are Nantes Atlantic Airport and La Rochelle, both 1 hour and 30 minutes from Les Sables d’Olonne. We had family fly from London Gatwick to La Rochelle on EasyJet, and it worked well; all the flights were on time.
Car Hire
If you are looking at hiring a car, check out Discover Cars. We checked them out on a previous Road trip to France and can thoroughly recommend. You should consider finding accommodation with a car parking space, as parking can be tricky to find in the town centre.
By Car
On this occasion, as we were travelling extensively through France, we brought our car over from the UK via the Channel Tunnel; it’s a 6-hour drive from Calais, which is fine if you want to road trip through Normandy as we did. We had other family members take the Ferry from Portsmouth to St. Malo, which cuts the road trip to 3 hours.
By Train
You can travel by train; it’s a 3-hour 30-minute journey from Paris via Nantes.
Whilst you are in the region, you are only an hour from Puy du Fou, the incredible historical theme park which is worth a visit, for the extraordinary shows and special effects.
Final Thoughts
We hope you have enjoyed joining us for our à la Sablaise getaway. Famous for yachting and adventure on the high seas, as I hope you can see, there is so much more to Les Sables d’Olonne.
Whether you’re here for the sweeping Atlantic beaches, the charming harbour views, or the old-world character of Île Penotte’s shell-adorned alleyways, Les Sables-d’Olonne has a way of capturing hearts. It’s a destination that strikes a balance between laid-back seaside charm and a surprising depth of culture, history, and natural beauty.
From morning strolls along the promenade and fresh seafood feasts at the market, to sunset aperitifs overlooking the sea, this French coastal gem invites you to slow down and soak it all in. It’s a place that you’ll recall with fond memories long after you’ve left.
If you’re looking for an authentic slice of French seaside life with a touch of the unexpected, Sables-d’Olonne might just be your perfect escape. We loved our time here and hope you will too.
Disclosure: Little Wandering Wren was a guest of Destination Les Sables d’Olonne. All opinions are my own. Thank you so much for this lovely invitation.
Follow us on Social Media: Find more photos of my travels and stories on Instagram at @littlewanderingwren.
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6 comments
Hello,
You go to the most beautiful places! I love the views of the beach.
The murals are lovely. The food all looks delicious.
Looks like a wonderful place for a vacation.
Take care, have a great weekend.
Thank you Eileen, I love how my Little Wandering Wren life takes me to new places that I have never heard of to explore. The beaches here are phenomenal, and I was so happy to be invited out of my comfort zone for a surf lessons in the Atlantic Ocean – wow!! We ate so well here, as a seafood lover I was in my element with the locally caught choices. Les Sables d’Olonne is now firmly on my map as a wonderful choice for a vacation with so much to see, do and love.
Have a great weekend too!
Wren x
It looks amazing.
Many thanks for such detailed information.
All the best Jan
Thank you Jan for stopping by, this ended up as an epic guide because there was so much to experience here. We even extended our time to stay longer as we were having so much fun – I like how there was so much art work at every turn! Les Sables d’Olonne is an amazing choice for a holiday, I’m glad we were out of season because it is a popular choice, especially with French holiday makers!
Have a great day!
Wren x
Loved this article—so much great info packed in! Every time I wondered about something, the next part answered it. The activities sound awesome, and the murals look gorgeous. Definitely adding this place to my list!
As boating enthusiasts from across the globe, I’m sure Les Sables is a destination that would enthrall you Eileen! I would love to go back when they are welcoming in the sailors who have single handedly navigated the globe without touching land or even communicating with their families in the Vendee Globe yacht race!
I loved seeing the Marinas, ship building and the fishing boats. Yes if you love everything to do with boating this is the place!
Thank you for stopping by and your enthusiastic comment, it is much appreciated!
Have a great week ahead.
Wren x