Les Sables-d'Olonne - Discovering France

Travelling to Les Sables-d'Olonne

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Les Sables-d'Olonne, a pretty good destination in France (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Les Sables-d'Olonne and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Les Sables-d'Olonne, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through France, here's everything to know about Les Sables-d'Olonne for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Les Sables-d'Olonne

Les Sables-d'Olonne is a town in western France, located in the department of Vendée on the Atlantic coast. It is a popular seaside resort known for its long sandy beach, marina, and picturesque harbor. The town is mostly known for being the starting point of the world-famous sailing race, the Vendée Globe. The race takes place every four years and starts and finishes in Les Sables-d'Olonne. Other popular attractions in the town include the Saint-Nicolas church, the zoo, and the Musée de l'Abbaye Sainte-Croix, which showcases contemporary art. Les Sables-d'Olonne is also famous for its delicious seafood restaurants, beautiful sunsets, and excellent surfing and water sports opportunities.

What to visit in Les Sables-d'Olonne

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Les Sables-d'Olonne, France, that you may consider visiting: 1. Plage des Sables d'Olonne: This is the main beach of Les Sables-d'Olonne and has a long stretch of beautiful sandy beach. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
2. Zoo des Sables d'Olonne: It’s a beautiful zoo with over 280 animals from various species. You can see lions, tigers, monkeys, rhinos, and many other animals.
3. Le Phare des Sables d'Olonne: It is a lighthouse that has been in operation since 1866. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse to get spectacular views of the city, port, and beach.
4. Musee de l'Abbaye Sainte-Croix: This museum is located in an old abbey and has a collection of contemporary art and sculptures from the 20th and 21st centuries.
5. Les Atlantes: It’s a modern thalassotherapy center with a range of facilities such as hot tubs, seawater pool, sauna, and hammam. 6. Les Salines de l'Olonne: It offers tours and workshops around the local salt mines dating from the Roman period.
7. Casino Les Sables d'Olonne: This is a modern casino with a range of gaming options including slot machines, blackjack, and roulette.
There are also many cultural events organized throughout the year in Les Sables-d'Olonne, such as festivals, exhibitions, and concerts. Enjoy your visit!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in France, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Les Sables-d'Olonne.

When to go on holiday to Les Sables-d'Olonne

The best time to go on holiday to Les Sables-d'Olonne depends on your preferences and interests. The summer months of July and August are the most popular times to visit as the weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities and events taking place. However, during this time, the beaches and tourist areas can be very crowded.
If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed holiday, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Additionally, Les Sables-d'Olonne is famous for its seafood and wine, so foodies may want to consider visiting during the Vendée Wine Festival in June, or Les Atlantes Music Festival in November, which celebrates the local seafood and wine.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Les Sables-d'Olonne

There are several ways to get to Les Sables-d'Olonne, France, depending on your starting location.
By car: If you are driving, you can take the A11 and then the A83 motorways until you reach the Les Sables-d'Olonne exit.
By train: There is a train station in Les Sables-d'Olonne, and you can take a train from Paris or Nantes. The TGV high-speed train from Paris takes about 3 hours, while the train from Nantes takes about 1 hour.
By plane: The nearest airport to Les Sables-d'Olonne is Nantes Atlantique Airport, which is about 1.5 hours away by car. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus to Nantes train station and then take a train to Les Sables-d'Olonne.
By bus: There are several bus companies that operate routes to Les Sables-d'Olonne from different cities in France.
By ferry: There is a ferry service that operates from the nearby port of Saint-Nazaire to Gijon, Spain. However, this option is less common and may not be convenient for everyone.
Overall, the most convenient option will depend on your starting location, budget, and schedule.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Les Sables-d'Olonne, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Les Sables-d'Olonne

Les Sables-d'Olonne, a coastal town in western France, offers a range of delicious regional cuisines. Here are some typical foods of Les Sables-d'Olonne with a short description for each of them: 1. Sardines - Les Sables-d'Olonne is known for its fresh and tasty sardines that are caught locally. Grilled or fried, they are served with a side of potatoes cooked in duck fat.
2. Tuna - Tuna is another popular fish in this region. It is often served as a tartare, accompanied by a side of salad and French fries.
3. Coquille Saint-Jacques - This delectable seafood dish features scallops that are baked with shallots, garlic, and white wine. Served with a side of vegetables, it is a must-try cuisine in Les Sables-d'Olonne.
4. Moules Marinières - This dish, featuring steamed mussels cooked with garlic, onions, butter, and white wine, is a popular seafood specialty in Les Sables-d'Olonne.
5. Chevre cheese - The region is also known for its delicious goat cheese that is made from raw milk and has a tangy and earthy flavor. It is often served as a snack or appetizer with a side of honey and bread.
6. Tarte Aux Pommes (Apple tart) - This sweet and delicious dessert features a crispy pastry crust with a soft and juicy apple filling. The dessert is often served with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
You can find general info about typical foods in France here.

Is Les Sables-d'Olonne an expensive destination for tourists?

Les Sables-d'Olonne is known as a popular seaside resort town on the west coast of France, and as such, it can be considered as a bit more expensive than some other towns in the area. However, prices may vary depending on the season you choose to visit, as well as the type of accommodation and activities you choose to do, so it's always a good idea to do some research and compare prices before booking. Overall, Les Sables-d'Olonne can be a bit pricey, but with some strategic planning, you can still have an enjoyable trip on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Les Sables-d'Olonne

Les Sables-d'Olonne is a coastal town located in western France. It is best to find accommodations in the central area of the town, particularly around the seafront. This area is close to the beach and within walking distance of many points of interest, including the historic district, shops, restaurants, and bars. Additionally, there are plenty of accommodations available near the harbor, which is a hub for water activities and boat tours. If you are looking for a quieter option, accommodations located on the outskirts of town may provide a more peaceful setting.
You can check hotel prices at Les Sables-d'Olonne here:
Booking.com

Is Les Sables-d'Olonne a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Les Sables-d'Olonne is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. As with any destination, visitors should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, particularly when in crowded areas or at night. It’s also a good idea to take basic safety precautions such as keeping your valuables secure and avoiding poorly lit areas. But overall, Les Sables-d'Olonne is a popular seaside resort town that draws many tourists each year and has a reputation for safety and friendliness.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in France here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Les Sables-d'Olonne.

What type of travelers will enjoy Les Sables-d'Olonne the most?

Les Sables-d'Olonne is a beautiful French coastal town that offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by all travelers. However, it is more suitable for couples and families who love water sports, beach activities, and exploring local culture. Couples can enjoy romantic walks along the beach, taking sunset strolls, and enjoying gourmet cuisine in local restaurants. Families will enjoy the endless beaches and activities like sandcastle building, kite flying, and swimming. There is also a zoo and aquarium for kids to explore.
Young people looking for fun will find plenty of nightclubs and bars in the town center, but they may find the town a bit too quiet and relaxed for their taste. Overall, Les Sables-d'Olonne is a great destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing seaside getaway.

How to get around Les Sables-d'Olonne

The most common forms of transportation in Les Sables-d'Olonne are buses, taxis, bicycles, and walking. The town is relatively small, so it's easy to get around on foot, but if you need to travel longer distances or want to explore the surrounding area, the bus or a taxi may be a better option. Bicycles are also a great way to get around and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.

What to see around Les Sables-d'Olonne

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Les Sables-d'Olonne: 1. Île de Ré: This beautiful island is located just off the coast and is known for its scenic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and charming villages.
2. Noirmoutier: Another great island to visit, Noirmoutier is known for its beaches, salt marshes, and historic castle.
3. La Rochelle: This picturesque port town is famous for its old port, medieval architecture, and seafood restaurants.
4. Puy du Fou: A unique theme park located about an hour and a half drive from Les Sables-d'Olonne, Puy du Fou offers historical reenactments, shows, and attractions that are perfect for a fun-filled day out.
5. Nantes: The beautiful city of Nantes is located about an hour and a half drive from Les Sables-d'Olonne, and is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and parks.
6. Fontenay-le-Comte: This historic town is home to a number of impressive medieval buildings and is located just a short drive from Les Sables-d'Olonne.
7. Poitiers: About two hours' drive from Les Sables-d'Olonne, the city of Poitiers is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and beautiful gardens.
I hope this helps and feel free to let me know if you have any other questions!
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