Notre-Dame-de-Riez combines a freshwater marsh with trails, waterways and striking traces of local history. For planning your trip, two main themes stand out: nature in the marsh and local heritage. You can explore the area on foot or by bike and visit churches as well as two menhirs classified as historic monuments.
Trails through the marsh and countryside
The Sentier des Gruettes is a walking trail through the freshwater marshland of Notre-Dame-de-Riez and is signposted as route number 22. Information panels cover the marsh's fauna and flora. This combines walking with specific information about the plant and animal life.
If you prefer cycling, you can take Boucle n°18. It follows Chemin de l'Ile for 1.5 kilometres through the centre of the Riez marsh. Trees and reeds line the route, and numerous canals open up views across broad expanses. Unlike the Sentier des Gruettes, Boucle n°18 focuses on cycling, canals and wide-open views, while the walking trail places particular emphasis on its fauna and flora information panels.
A walking path follows the banks of the Ligneron to Portes Notre Dame. Since 1938, the Portes Notre Dame sluice has regulated the sea level; beyond it, the marsh stretches as far as the Soullandeau peninsula. On Boucle n°18, access to the path along the Ligneron may be difficult in winter or on rainy days. Check trail conditions before setting off. A children's playground and picnic tables are located beyond the small bridge over the Ligneron. Freshwater fishing is possible on the Vie and the Ligneron.
Menhirs and church history
The Menhir dit La Pierre-au-Trésor-de-la-Triée is a Neolithic menhir in Notre-Dame-de-Riez and has been classified as a historic monument since 12 May 1924. The Menhir du Pré Doux is also classified as a historic monument; it was granted protected status on the same date.
A church also dedicated to Saint Ambrose was given to the Benedictine Abbey of St Cyprien de Poitiers by a lord of Rié in 1100. The Church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption was built between 1888 and 1889. It contains fourteen Stations of the Cross, admired by tourists. Its historical associations therefore span a medieval donation and a building from the late 19th century. The church's traditions also include a votive offering: after a victory, Louis XIII sent the church a gilded silver monstrance decorated with enamel.
A summer event
The Sardinade is a summer festival in Notre-Dame-de-Riez. The festival features a show and fireworks, and ends with a folk dance. Check the event dates if you would like to plan your trip around it.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Martin-Lars-en-Sainte-Hermine, Moreilles, Saint-Cyr-En-Talmondais, Landeronde, Nalliers, Brem-Sur-Mer, Loge-Fougereuse, Tiffauges.
For the broader travel overview: Vendée.
