Eating Out

'Auberge de Mâitre Pannetier'
"At Vouvant – in the centre of the picturesque village, with plenty to see on a stroll around."

'Auberge de Mont des Alouettes'
"Near Les Herbiers – on the site of restored windmills, with pleasant footpaths through woodland."

'Auberge de Mont Mercure'
"At Mont St Michel, near to the magnificent church spire topped with a golden statue (the highest point in the Vendée)."

'La Morlière'
"Near Sigournais, overlooking a lake, with paths leading down to it."

Local Area and Activities

'Fôret de Mervent-Vouvant'
"Large area of woodland with cycling and walking trails."

'Maison de la Vie Rurale'
"Gives an insight into rural life and geography in the area. Interesting garden with strange vegetables (for example, spiny tomatoes!) and flowers."

'Manoir des Sciences'
"Former home of Ferchault de Réaumur, an amazing amateur scientist and inventor, interactive displays and animations."

'Marais Poitevin'
"Also known as ‘La Venise Verte’ or ‘Green Venice’ – an area of low lying land north of La Rochelle, with a network of narrow canals. Hire a punt and take a leisurely route along the canals."

'Puy du Fou'
"Internationally known, the Grand Parc, open during the day, is a large theme park with staged battles, falconry displays, Roman chariot racing etc. La Cinéscénie, at night time, is a spectacular light and sound display with a cast of hundreds, galloping horsemen, laser displays. It has to be seen, no description can do it justice!"

Markets and Shopping

'Fontenay-le-Comte Market'
"On Saturday morning, with stalls in the streets and a covered market for fish, meat, cheese, etc."

'La Rochelle Market'
"Well worth the drive, with a superb range of food stalls set in the attractive old part of the town. Open every day, but Wednesday and Saturday are the big days."

'La Rochelle Shopping'
"Combine a visit to the market with some serious shopping, including excellent clothes shops, such as Galeries Lafayette."