At Lac de La Tricherie, you can combine swimming, pedal boating and fishing with nature watching. The lake covers 17 hectares; numerous birds can be spotted among the oak trees on the eastern shore. The options are clearly distinct: water activities sit alongside the chance to observe birdlife from the shore. As water activities may vary seasonally, it is best to check their availability before making plans.
Forest Trails and Nature Watching
Bois du Défend is a nature area with a wide variety of animal and plant species. Walking trails have been created there. There is also practical guidance for choosing a route: some local trails, including trails in Bois du Défend, are accessible to bicycles, strollers and wheelchairs. This does not automatically apply to every trail. If you plan to use one of these options, plan your specific route and bear in mind that surface conditions may vary.
You can explore the natural surroundings in different ways: birds among the oak trees are the focus on the eastern shore of the lake, while Bois du Défend offers a broader nature experience with its variety of animal and plant species. This comparison can help you decide whether to focus on wildlife watching or include nature trails in your plans.
Murals and Historic Sites
The former church of Saint-Christophe contains 13th-century murals. They were discovered by chance in the choir in 1950. In October 2006, the Conseil général de la Vendée set up a museum presentation in the church entitled “A l’écoute des images, Mille ans de fresques et de peintures murales en Vendée” (Listening to Images: A Thousand Years of Frescoes and Wall Paintings in Vendée). This included an audio system explaining the murals in the choir.
Another historic site is the chapel of Vieux Château. Under a decree dated 16 March 1987, it is listed in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments. Its access restrictions are important when planning a visit: the chapel is on private property and cannot currently be visited.
Activities and Games
At its site at 9, La Tricherie, 85500 Mesnard-la-Barotière, Tépacap Vendée offers tree climbing and the Accrosplash floating course. The two activities differ in format: tree climbing takes you up into the trees, while Accrosplash is a floating course. As availability may vary seasonally, check the operator’s information before making plans.
The 2026 activity offering also includes the game “Jeu de piste – Sac à dos” (Backpack Treasure Hunt). It lets you rediscover La Tricherie independently through orienteering and challenges in nature. Another game option is the “Le Secret de Perrine” booklet, available for €5 from shops in Mesnard-la-Barotière and the Les Herbiers tourist office. Before you travel, check whether the booklet is available at the listed points of sale.
There are several different options to choose from: water activities and birdwatching by the lake, nature trails in Bois du Défend, historic murals or activities for exploring hands-on. When planning your trip, you can weigh these options according to whether nature, culture or an interactive activity matters most to you.
Discover more destinations: Bazoges-En-Pareds, Saint-Laurent-Sur-Sèvre, Mouzeuil-Saint-Martin, Les Essarts, La Pommeraie-Sur-Sèvre, Sainte-Florence, Chauché, Saint-Juire-Champgillon.
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