Velluire brings together cycling loops, walking trails along the Vendée and traces of history. To choose what to do, you can opt for easy cycle routes of varying lengths, clearly described walking trails and a look at the local heritage.
By bike: two easy loops
The easy Les Voies cycling loop is 17.9 kilometres long and starts at the car park on Rue du Château in Velluire. Along the way, it follows the Vendée, goes around Bois Joli and crosses open plains. The route thus combines riverside scenery, woodland surroundings and open countryside in one loop.
The equally easy Les Huttes cycling loop is 24.7 kilometres long. It passes through the Marais poitevin, including Velluire and Bois de Loyauté. The two loops therefore differ both in length and in the landscapes mentioned: Les Voies is 6.8 kilometres shorter. Check the latest route details before setting out, as route information may change.
Walking along the Vendée and around Bois Joli
The family-friendly Les Chaintres walking trail starts in the centre of Velluire and follows the Vendée. Its starting point is behind the church on Place de Verdun, and the route is about 2.7 kilometres long. The Le Bois Joli trail runs from the banks of the Vendée to the edge of Bois Joli. This route has two picnic areas with children's play equipment. At the starting point there is also another play area and a large shelter; toilets are nearby. Check the latest route details and facilities before your visit.
Velluire's former towpaths also shape opportunities for walks and wildlife watching: they are used by walkers, anglers, birdwatchers and nature photographers. These activities differ, but all are connected to the former paths by the water. The Hutte du Cul-des-Mottes is considered the last remaining small farm on Velluire's towpath.
Church, stone and local history
The church in Velluire is partly listed as a Monument historique. Protection of its apse dates back to a decree of 26 December 1927. Velluire railway station, which formed part of the changes taking place at the time, is also part of the commune's 19th-century history. These two historical points of interest belong to different eras and can be explored alongside the routes through the area.
The quarries of Massigny had been known for centuries for their white stone. It was used for many private homes and public buildings, so their historical significance lies both in the extraction and use of the material. An intricately engraved solid-gold torque was also found in the Massigny quarries and is cited as evidence of Velluire's strong Celtic settlement.
In the wider area of Le Poiré-sur-Velluire, the façades and roofs of the Château du Chastellier Barlot are also noted as a historical feature: they have been protected as a historic monument since 23 September 1977. The protected status applies to these parts of the building.
Evenings and regional specialities
The Guinguette La Belle Verte welcomes visitors for sociable evenings on the banks of the Vendée near the Hutte de Velluire. Check the latest opening hours and programme before visiting. La Gautronnette in Velluire offers local specialities such as brioche, gâche and several galettes, including Brioche de la Mariée, Galette Angélique Pur Beurre and Galette de l’Aunis. Check whether the business is currently open before travelling.
More nature spots in the wider area
In the wider area of Le Poiré-sur-Velluire, the De Belle en Baisse educational trail in the regional nature reserve has nine information-board stops and three observation platforms. The trail has been available since 2024. In mid-April, the annual festive opening of the Communal marsh features cattle and horses grazing, a producers' market, nature outings and horse-drawn carriage rides. Check the specific dates and programme before travelling.
In the wider area of Les Velluire-sur-Vendée, there are three leisure areas: two at Bois de Velluire and one on the Vendée. They are for picnicking and relaxing. The Autour du Communal walking trail runs through them around the regional nature reserve of the Communal marsh of Le Poiré-sur-Velluire. An educational trail with observation platforms and freely available binoculars offers opportunities to observe nature. Facilities and route details may change; check the latest information before visiting.
Discover more destinations: La Mothe-Achard, Les Landes-Genusson, Oulmes, La Ferriere, Bretignolles-Sur-Mer, Nesmy, Foussais-Payré, Pouzauges.
For the broader travel overview: Vendée.
