A signposted seven-kilometre nature trail and an eleven-kilometre forest walk offer two different options for outdoor excursions in Notre-Dame-De-Monts. There is also an art trail, exhibitions and supervised water sports. When planning, you can start by asking yourself whether you would rather focus on a hike, nature-related activities or culture.
Choose walking trails by length and landscape
The Voie verte is a signposted, unpaved nature trail. Its seven kilometres are divided into different sections: 2.5 kilometres run through marshland, three kilometres through the forest and 1.5 kilometres along a shared-use path. The stated walking time is one hour and 30 minutes. This gives you a concrete time estimate for planning; trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out.
At eleven kilometres, the Sentier de la forĂŞt is longer. It starts in Notre-Dame-De-Monts and follows sandy ground through a forest of maritime pines and holm oaks to the treetop walkway at Pey de la Blet. The two trail descriptions emphasise different things: for the Voie verte, the total length, sections and walking time are all specified, while the Sentier de la forĂŞt highlights its woodland setting and destination. This lets you choose according to the time available and the kind of trail you prefer, without treating the routes as part of a single circuit.
Art, biodiversity and events
In the heart of Notre-Dame-De-Monts, the Jardin du Vent invites visitors to enjoy an artistic and playful trail. Moving sculptures, huts, wind chimes and legends shape the garden’s theme. It is also home to a library that is open year-round. Concerts, yoga and other events are held at the Jardin du Vent too; dates may vary. If you plan to attend an event, check the date in advance.
Biotopia focuses on biodiversity and its different habitats: this interactive, educational experience takes you from the forest and ocean to the dunes and tidal zone. Walks, workshops, evening events and treasure hunts offer different ways to learn about local wildlife and plant life, as well as the natural heritage. Dates or activities may change for some events. Biotopia therefore offers a different way to explore nature than the walking trails described above, with a focus on discovery and learning.
Panoramic views, water and water sports
Kulmino combines sweeping views with two permanent exhibitions. The viewing platform is 70 metres above the ground and offers a 360-degree panorama of marshland, forest, dunes and islands. The exhibition “L’eau sous toutes ses formes” explains the water cycle from source to tap. “Paysages et énergies renouvelables” explores landscapes and renewable energy. Kulmino thus focuses both on the surrounding area and on water and energy.
The PĂ´le Nautique de Notre Dame de Monts offers supervised activities year-round for those who want to discover, learn or improve their water sports skills. Sessions are led by state-certified instructors and are open to people aged six and over. Activities listed include sailing, sea kayaking, land sailing, canoeing in the marshland, Longe-cĂ´te, stand-up paddleboarding and wingfoiling. There is also a marine garden for children. The range extends from activities on the water to those in the marshland; which ones interest you may help shape your choice of activities during your stay.
Whether you prefer to spend your time on a signposted trail, take a longer forest walk, or explore a cultural or nature-related theme, Notre-Dame-De-Monts offers several distinct starting points for planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Avaugourd-des-Landes, Saint-Jean-De-Monts, Mortagne-Sur-Sèvre, L'oie, Sérigné, Le Champ-Saint-Père, Le Givre, Sainte-Hermine.
For the broader travel overview: Vendée.
