Walking tours of Notre-Dame-de-Monts
Hiking around Notre-Dame-de-Monts is one of the most pleasant ways to enjoy nature to the full. Looking for a nature getaway between ocean, forest and marsh? This seaside resort abounds with marked trails accessible to all, from casual walkers to regular hikers. Families and couples alike will find it an ideal playground for alternating walks, wildlife observation or sunset strolls. Here’s a roundup of must-do hikes in the vicinity of our campsite at Notre-Dame-de-Monts.
Forest trail:
Green immersion for all levels
Hiking in the Vendée national forest
It’s hard to resist the call of the Notre-Dame-de-Monts state forest. Its peaceful atmosphere, shady pine forest and wide sandy paths appeal to families and regular walkers in search of tranquillity.
This signposted trail offers several easy loops, perfect for a stroll with young children or a relaxing outing. Some sections are even suitable for all-terrain baby carriages, making the walk accessible to all. Along the way, it’s not unusual to spot squirrels, chickadees and other forest inhabitants, to the delight of curious little ones.
Which routes to choose in the forest?
Must-see tours
From the short 2 km loop (40 minutes) to the long 8 km loop (almost two hours), there’s something for everyone. The “1, 2, 3 allons dans les bois” (1, 2, 3 let’s go into the woods)educational circuit is specially designed for families with children: fun panels, sensory discoveries, nature observation… The ideal way to introduce youngsters to the richness of the forest.
Nordic walkers and trail runners will appreciate the sporty routes under the cool pine trees. Here, every walk becomes an excuse to recharge your batteries and share a convivial moment, whatever your level or duration.
The main forest parking lot offers easy access, water points and picnic tables for a gourmet break at the end of your hike. To extend the pleasure, simply cross the forest to go directly to the beach, thus combining hiking and swimming. Couples particularly appreciate these long walks hand in hand, away from the hustle and bustle. The easy access and beauty of the area invite you to relax at any time of day. Discover the walks around Notre-Dame-de-Monts.
Discover the diversity of landscapes:
Dunes, marshes and beaches
The paths of a thousand landscapes
One of the major assets of Notre-Dame-de-Monts is the diversity of its landscapes. Between wild dunes, tranquil marshes and ocean beaches, each trail reveals a different face of the region, for a new experience on every outing.
From the center of town to the sea, several marked trails offer a variety of pleasures: passage through golden dunes, pontoons over wetlands, breathtaking ocean views… Enough to satisfy beginners and experienced walkers alike.
The trail from the dune to the marsh:
An accessible family loop
A gentle hike for the whole family
This easy 4 km loop invites you to discover a succession of natural environments: soft sand dunes, typical marsh vegetation, wooden pontoons and birdwatching points. Binoculars recommended to observe dragonflies, herons and ducks!
Perfect for a family outing, this trail will also appeal to photo enthusiasts and biodiversity lovers. In summer, the low-angled light magnifies every corner of the landscape, making the walk unforgettable.
There’s nothing quite like a sunset stroll along the beach after walking the paths leading to the ocean. Several short paths link the village to the sea, ideal for a quick outing before a swim or picnic on the fine sand.
For couples, the romantic ambience of the beach bathed in golden light turns every hike into an enchanted interlude. A real treat for two!
Nature and sculpture trail,
arboretum and greenway
Themed walks
Looking for something different? Notre-Dame-de-Monts offers a number of themed tours to help you discover nature in a different way, with artistic, botanical or sporting walks.
The nature and sculpture trail features a surprising array of contemporary works scattered over 3 km of pine forest: perfect for a creative stroll with family and friends, where young and old alike can have fun spotting the hidden installations.
Thearboretum offers less than 2 km of sensory trails, with educational panels on local and exotic species. A soothing outing to raise children’s awareness of biodiversity, or simply to relax before heading off to the market or the beach.
The greenway between
Notre-Dame-de-Monts and Saint-Jean-de-Monts
A veritable invitation to gentle adventure, the voie verte links Notre-Dame-de-Monts to Saint-Jean-de-Monts over a distance of almost 6 km. This wide, flat trail is ideal for combining hiking and cycling itinerary(Vélodyssée), as well as scooters and rollerblades.
By alternating between walking, cycling and lazing on the beach, everyone can create their own vacation rhythm. This safe route allows the whole family to enjoy nature in complete freedom.
- Forest trail: easy loops, shade, tranquillity and local wildlife observation
- Dune to marsh trail: mosaic of landscapes, birdwatching, fun outing for all
- Nature and sculpture trail & arboretum: informative and original walks for all ages
- Voie verte: gentle adventure, all modes of transport, forest and ocean views
- Breton marsh loops: wild atmosphere, wide open spaces, ideal for experienced walkers
- Coastal trails: magical sunsets, guaranteed beach + swim combo
Favorite hikes
around the Breton marshes of the Vendée and the coastline
Looking to get off the beaten track? The vast
The Barre-de-Monts circuit, for example, crosses canals, wet meadows and typical villages. Depending on the loop you choose, you can expect to cover between 5 and 12 km, with some sections being more technical and reserved for experienced walkers. Ideal for couples or friends in search of wilderness.
On the ocean side, the coastal path runs alongside beaches, pine forests and oyster ports, perfect for alternating short and long-distance hikes. After a few kilometers, there’s nothing to stop you walking barefoot in the sand or enjoying an impromptu swim. With a picnic basket under your arm, the day takes on an air of absolute freedom!
Need more information? Visit theTourist Office of Notre-Dame-de-Monts !
Practical accommodation for walkers:
Camping le clos du bourg
To make the most of all the hiking in Notre-Dame-de-Monts, there’s nothing like a comfortable base close to the trails. Visit 3-star campsite Le Clos du Bourg welcomes families and couples just a stone’s throw from the town center, and just a few hundred meters from the trailheads and greenway.
Under the pines or near the dunes, you’ll enjoy spacious pitches, a heated swimming pool and a friendly atmosphere, ideal after an active day. Here, everything is designed to facilitate outings: direct access to the forest, bike rental and services services for hikers.
After a nice walk, all that’s left to do is relax in the pool, prepare a barbecue or stroll on the terrace, lulled by the sound of birdsong. For an active family vacation in Notre-Dame-de-Monts, it couldn’t be better!
