Campsite near the seaside resort of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
If you’re staying at the L’Océan campsite in Saint-Jean-de-Monts, a trip to Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is a must. This dynamic seaside resort boasts a charming fishing port, beaches and local specialties. Stroll along the quays, discover the lively streets of the town center, and let yourself be tempted by a tasting of sardines, the town’s specialty.
Whether you’re a lover of gastronomy, water sports or seaside strolls, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie offers a day rich in discovery and pleasure for all ages.
What to do in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie?
Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is an ideal destination for enjoying the Vendée coast and discovering its maritime and cultural heritage. Here are a fewmust-do activities in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie:
- Discover the fishing port: The port of Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is renowned for its sardine fishing. You can watch the fishing boats, visit the fresh fish markets and taste the famous local sardines.
- Stroll through the market: The Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie market is one of the largest and liveliest in the region, offering local produce, seafood and Vendée specialties.
- Enjoy the beaches: The Boisvinet and Grande Plage beaches are ideal for swimming, surfing or lazing in the sun.
- Take a boat trip: Several boat excursions are available to discover the coast from the sea, or take a cruise to the Ile d’Yeu.
- Stroll along the quays and through the town center: The center is charming, with its lively lanes, boutiques and café terraces. A perfect place to stroll and have a drink.
- Visit the Maison des Écrivains de la Mer: this museum highlights local maritime culture through exhibitions, books and objects linked to the history of navigation.
- Discover the cycle paths: The town is criss-crossed by several cycle paths, including the Vélodyssée, offering beautiful rides along the seafront and through the marshes.
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Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie: Port de Charme and Sardine Capital
In the Vendée, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie is a lively seaside resort, combining maritime traditions with an authentic atmosphere. Renowned for its active fishing port and sardine production, it’s the perfect place to discover the world of fishing and savor local flavors.
Among the must-sees, the fishing port offers a daily spectacle with the return of the boats and the sale of fresh fish, including the famous sardine, the town’s emblem. Beaches such as Boisvinet are ideal for swimming and lounging, while the Grande Plage attracts water sports enthusiasts.
Lovers of maritime culture can visit the Maison des Écrivains de la Mer, dedicated to the region’s naval literature and history. For a moment of relaxation, stroll through the town center, with its markets, shopping streets and seaside cafés. Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie’s warm atmosphere and typical Vendée coastal landscapes will win you over.