Travel destination during a heatwave : feel the Fresh Air of Vendée
Vendée’s coastline — breezy beaches, shady nature, and cool, refreshing things to do
Vendée Coast: The Ideal Summer Destination During a Heatwave
When weather reports announce a heatwave, choosing the right vacation spot becomes essential to enjoy summer while staying cool. The Vendée coast, nicknamed the “Côte de Lumière” (Coast of Light), offers the perfect setting to escape high temperatures thanks to the refreshing influence of the ocean, its shaded areas, and numerous “cool” activities.
A Climate Tempered by the Atlantic Ocean
One of the major advantages of this summer destination during a heatwave is the refreshing effect of the sea breeze. The ocean air reduces the feeling of heat and makes nights more pleasant than inland. From Les Sables-d’Olonne to Saint-Jean-de-Monts, passing through Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie and La Tranche-sur-Mer, the Vendée coast lets you enjoy the beach while breathing fresher air.
Spacious, Well-Equipped Beaches
Along the shoreline, Vendée beaches offer vast stretches of fine sand where you can settle without being crowded, even in peak season. Lifeguard stations, showers, water points, and shaded areas make it easier to prevent the effects of extreme heat. Supervised swimming and the Blue Flag label guarantee safety and environmental quality.
Shaded Areas Within Walking Distance
The Vendée coastline is not just about beaches. Pine forests, marshlands, and coastal paths provide natural refuges from the heat. State forests, such as those of Olonne and Monts, are ideal for a walk or picnic in the shade. Salt marshes and nature reserves offer a cooler atmosphere during the hottest part of the day.
Accommodation Designed for Summer Comfort
Campsites along the Vendée coast are often located right next to the beach and offer shaded pitches, swimming pools, and mobile homes equipped with blinds, shutters, and covered terraces. This makes it easy to follow best practices during a heatwave: stay hydrated, limit sun exposure, and rest in cooler spaces.
A Summer Rhythm Adapted to the Heat
On the Côte de Lumière, life happens during the cooler hours: morning markets, sunset strolls, evening entertainment, and seaside dining. Days are planned according to the temperature: beach in the early morning, shaded breaks at midday, and outings in the evening.
Activities to Keep Cool Even in Summer
During periods of high heat, this vacation destination is perfect for water sports: surfing, sailing, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, as well as water parks and nautical bases for the whole family. The Vélodyssée, a cycling route along the coast, is great for riding early in the morning or in the evening, shaded by pine trees. Coastal thalassotherapy centers and spas add a relaxing option, all at a pleasant temperature.
