The Vendée cannot be bettered for a family beach holiday. It has long, gently shelving beaches and sheltered coves backed by fragrant pine trees, which provide great, safe conditions for swimming. Sans Souci is within easy reach of many beaches (approximately 1 hour) and coves along the southern Vendeen coastline; the more well known of which include Les Sables-d’Olonne and La Tranche Sur Mer. Even out of season, there is plenty of activity in the resort of Les Sables-d’Olonne, which is considered the smartest on the Vendée coast, however it is perhaps the busiest in the height of season. The town stretches between a small port and an immense beach of fine sand running for more than 3km.
La Tranche Sur Mer is another popular seaside resort, although smaller than Les Sables-d’Olonne. Its beach has been awarded the Blue Flag and is a very popular destination for families. There are a number of fishing ports and small resorts dotted along the coastline. Inland, sleepy villages sit amid rolling countryside of vineyards and fields of colourful sunflowers.

Puy du Fou

The park brings in some 1.45 million visitors every year, making it the second most popular attraction in France after Disneyland Paris. However, do not be put off by these visitor numbers – the park has ample, free parking, which is easily accessible just off the access road leading to the park. It is well planned and therefore allows easy access and exit from the park. The park occupies a vast woodland area and the journey through this forest is very cleverly designed, which means that you are in no way hindered by the other visitors to the park. There is plenty of open space to allow you to walk around freely and easily, and sufficient seating within all of the shows to allow everyone to enjoy the performances without the need to queue.The park is split into separate areas, with each show or display depicting a different era of the history of France. All of the dialogue in the shows is in French, but English dialogue can be provided via the use of headphones (headphones are only available at the ticket office so ask for details on entry). Do not worry if you do not wish to use headphones – you will still understand the main message of the shows and the actors' stunts and talents need no translation!

There is no need to book tickets in advance, however discounts are available if you do decide to book on-line in advance of arrival. The price for adults (2010 prices) starts at 30 euros for a one day pass and 17 euros for children (this price includes entry to all of the shows and access to each of the displays around the park). You may wish to purchase two (or more) day passes as there is a lot to see in one day, although it is achievable if you arrive soon after the gates open. The only extras you will need to pay for are refreshments, although there are plenty of picnic areas provided throughout the park and therefore you may wish to take food/drink with you. If you do wish to purchase food or drink, there are a number of restaurants in the park for you to enjoy, as well as kiosks selling drinks, snacks and ice creams

Now a French regional park, Marais Poitevin, known locally as ‘La Venise Verte’, is a system of canals, dykes and slow flowing rivers amongst meadows and poplar trees through which farmers are often seen travelling in flat bottomed punts. Visitors can explore the canals by punt (with or without a boatman to guide you) on the peaceful waterways, or via the many miles of well marked cycling tracks.

The fabulous resort of La Rochelle is able to offer a wide range of exclusive shops. It is firmly established as one of the country’s foremost yachting centres as well as having a rich history that is most visible at the Old Port, which with its 3 medieval towers, is the main focus of the town.

Opposite La Rochelle and also worth exploring is the fashionable island of Re. To the French, the Ile De Re is a chic destination. It has vineyards, farms and whitewashed villages, which all add to its undoubted charm. Although a bridge now links it to the mainland, it retains most of its insular character and its famous salt-marshes. Numerous blazed cycle-tracks allow visitors to crisscross the island in peace and quiet.

Vouvant, labelled one of France’s most beautiful villages, lies 12km north of Fontenay-le-Comte, surrounded by medieval walls and looking down over the meandering river Mère. A nice place to visit for a relaxing lunch and stroll. There is an atmosphere of silence and safety – an atmosphere resulting perhaps from the intervention of the Fairy Melusine, who is said to have built Vouvant Chateau in a single night.

Also on the outskirts of Poiteirs, Futuroscope is dedicated to film and the moving image. Mind-boggling special effects and some of the world’s largest screens make this fantastic fun for all the family.

For a rather more relaxing experience, make a point of visiting the Parc Floral de la Court d’Aron. This magnificent garden lies between Luçon and Les Sables-d'Olonne. Koi carp swim lazily in the ponds, and bamboos and banana palms rustle in the breeze. From late June till early August a vast lake is totally covered with thousands of exquisite pink-tinged lotus flowers - simply breath-taking. There is also an area with animals and a play area for the children – all in all, a great, relaxing, family day out.

There are markets in all towns and villages on different days of the week and numerous festivals throughout the year.

The Angela Bird's Vendée Pages website offers useful information on the area, so too does the In the Vendée website. If your French reading abilities are up to it, you can also try the site of the Conseil General de la Vendée

For further information or to make a booking, please contact Nick and Justine at info@lasanssouci.com

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