Puy du Fou: Where History Comes Alive

Embark on a journey through time at Puy du Fou, an extraordinary historical theme park. With captivating live shows and immersive experiences, this park transports visitors to different eras, from the Roman Empire to medieval times. Watch knights joust, Vikings raid, and musketeers duel in this unparalleled spectacle that combines education with entertainment.

The shows are designed to be enjoyed by all ages, they are short and feature many amazing effects.  There are a few scenes which might alarm very young children due to there realism, however these are indicated by a symbol on the visitor guide and mobile app.  The mobile app, also allows you to access free simultaneous translations and subtitling services for all the shows (don’t forget to take your headphones!).

Check out ticket prices and opening hours directly on the Puy du Fou website.

Île d’Yeu: A Seaside Paradise

For a tranquil family day out, take a ferry to Île d’Yeu. This charming island boasts unspoilt coastlines, pristine beaches, scenic bike paths, and historic sites. Explore the island’s quaint villages, visit the impressive medieval castle, and enjoy a leisurely bike ride while taking in the breathtaking coastal views.

For ferry times and other useful information visit the tourism office website

Les Sables-d’Olonne: Sun, Sand, and Seafaring Charm

A quintessential seaside resort, Les Sables-d’Olonne is a haven for families seeking sun and surf. The expansive sandy beaches provide the ideal setting for a day of relaxation or beachside activities. Stroll along the expansive promenade, explore the vibrant harbor, which is the departure point of the renowned Vendée Globe sailing race.  The race runs again from 10 November 2024.  If your little ones are obsessed with collecting shells from the beach, then why not check out the Shell Museum of Les Sables-d’Olonne which holds an enormous collection of over 50,000 shells from all over the world, you won’t believe the size of some of these. Check out their website for opening hours and more information.

Historical Vendée: Unraveling the Region’s Past

Immerse your family in the rich history of the Vendée in one of it’s many museums.  Whether you’re a family that loves old cars (Musée automobile de Vendée) or you have a little one (or big one!) obsessed with steam trains (Chemin de fer de la Vendée) or you are fascinated by history, the region can offer something for everyone.

At the Historial de la Vendée they showcases the region’s cultural heritage through interactive exhibits and engaging displays. From prehistoric times to the Vendée Wars, the museum offers a captivating journey through the milestones that shaped this picturesque corner of France.  The Museum itself is an example of bold architecture and is classified as a “sensitive natural area”, with it’s green roof providing 8000 sqm of meadows mimicking the local landscape.  Visit the musuem website for opening times and special events.

Step back in time at Tiffauges Castle, also known as the Castle of the Black Falcon. This medieval fortress offers a captivating experience for families, with its imposing towers, dungeons, and historical reenactments. Kids can enjoy interactive activities, such as practice jousting on wooden horses and learning games of skill inspired by the middle ages, such as shuffleboard, ring game, barrel and stick games while learning about the castle’s fascinating past.  Most of the entertainment and show areas are accessible to those with reduced mobility.  Open from April to September usually, do check their website for opening times and family pass prices.

Exploring Marais Poitevin: The Green Venice

Discover the enchanting waterways and lush landscapes of Marais Poitevin, often referred to as the “Green Venice.” Take a boat ride through the serene canals, surrounded by verdant vegetation or hire a bike and take in the canals along the white paths. This natural wonderland provides an idyllic setting for a family picnic or a peaceful afternoon of birdwatching.

If you want to experience the area from a different point of view, then take to the trees at Le Donjon des Cimes in the acrobatic adventure park.  Without harnesses or tethers, everyone can explore safely in these giant nets woven into the trees.

Les Machines de l’île: Art and Engineering Combine

A unique blend of art and engineering awaits at Les Machines de l’île in Nantes, just a short drive from the Vendée. Marvel at the fantastical creations, including the famous Great Elephant, and explore the imaginative world inspired by the works of Jules Verne, located on the site of former shipyards  These incredible mechanical creations will delight all the family. Explore their website for opening time, prices and accessibility.

Exploring new Pathways: Cycling with the family

The Vendée really is one of the best places to cycle with the whole family.  It has 1,800 km of cycle paths as well as 1,160 km of road cycling routes.  You can cycle along the beautiful coastlines, the cycle paths add peace of mind for taking the family out and there are so many places to visit, explore and build memories.  You can take your own bikes if you are driving to the region, but if you are not, then don’t worry the region has so many places where you can hire bikes, e-bikes, bike carriages, baby seats and scooters.  In fact there is so much to do by bike, that I think we will need to do another blog just for cycling in the Vendée!

Aqua Adventures: Family Waterpark Fun

For those adrenaline junkies in your family, why not make the most out of a day at one of the Waterparks.  One of the standout attractions is O’Gliss Park, a sprawling water haven featuring a variety of slides, wave pools, and even a lazy river for those looking to unwind. Puy du Fou, although primarily known for its historical theme park, boasts an impressive water area known as “Grand Parc,” where visitors can cool off in style. Meanwhile,  Atlantic Tobboggan, with its heated pools, wave pool, slides, playground and floating river has 2 new slides for 2024, The Draguero and the Schuttle, which are bound to provide fun for even the grumpiest of teenagers!  Tickets are often cheaper if you book in advance and check out their websites for opening times and special offers.