Discover Marô, the Breton-Vendéen Marsh

The Marôis a wetland extending over two departments, Vendée and Loire-Atlantique, 18 communes and more than 36,000 hectares. The marsh is a gentle place to discover.Slow tourism" is a perfect fit for this peaceful territory, far from the hustle and bustle of the cities.

In the Marais Breton-Vendéen, it's all about nature tourism, with activities that encourage gentle travel, while respecting the inhabitants and the environment. In fact, Le Marô was awarded the "Palmes du tourisme durable 2020" prize for sustainable tourism.

Hiking on land... and on water

In Le Marô, signposted itineraries allow you to discover the Vendée countryside on your own. On foot, by bike or on horseback (or pony for the young ones), the trails immerse you in the landscapes of salt marshes, meadows, canals and small villages (Sallertaine, Beauvoir-sur-Mer...) that make up the beauty of this unique landscape.

You can also discover the Marô by canoe, kayak or paddle. Or why not take a trip on a yole, a small, light, flat-bottomed boat? From Le Perrier, the "yoleur" will guide you through the Grande Taillée estuary. It's up to you whether you prefer the mist of dawn or the warm colors of sunset!

Observe the wild flora and fauna of Vendée

The marsh is an ideal observation ground for wildlife enthusiasts. In spring, it's an intense nesting ground. And in autumn, brant, egrets, white egrets and avocets make the Baie de Bourgneuf their home.

To help your children learn more about nature, visit Biotopia, 5 minutes from Saint Jean de Monts, on the edge of the national forest. An immersive film, a time corridor and 170 m2 of exhibition space give you an insight into the ocean, the dune and the forest. All the better to observe the surrounding nature after your visit. Nature guides also offer guided tours.

A rich natural and traditional heritage to discover in Marô

In La Barre-de-Monts, the "Daviaud" eco-museum will give you a better understanding of life in this unique ecosystem. A fun-filled 800 m2 exhibition should appeal to children and adults alike. An escape game is also available. Please contact us directly for details and opening times. A bird observatory was opened in June 2020 right next to the museum.

In Notre-Dame-de-Monts, climb to the top of the Kulmino (a 70 m-high water tower), for a breathtaking view of the marsh, the dune and the islands from this original panoramic platform.

In Soullans, art and nature lovers can take time to admire the works of art in the Charles Milcendeau museum. From everyday scenes of market garden life to flamboyant journeys to Spain, welcome to the world of the famous local painter.

Oysters and salt at the heart of Marô

Salt marshes are as fascinating for their implacable geometry as for their harvest! Between the 11th and 13th centuries, the first salt pans were dug by Benedictine monks. This tradition continues to this day. Meet the salt workers and witness the harvesting of salt in summer and samphire in spring.

Beyond the canals and marshes, head to the coast to enjoy the atmosphere of the fisheries and discoveroyster farming. After a guided tour of an oyster farm, oysters will hold no secrets for you... and you'll be delighted to taste the local produce!