Cycling on the "Queen of Bourgneuf Bay
At the dawn of autumn, let yourself be lulled by the mildness of the Pays de la Loire and set off to discover a hidden treasure: the "Queen of the Baie de Bourgneuf". On the Vendée coast, from Bouin to Beauvoir-sur-Mer, the small oyster-farming harbours are revealed like jewels in a jewel case of blue velvet. By bike, as a duo or in a small group, follow the cycle paths that wind along the coastline and treat yourself to an enchanted interlude, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
You'll love
Pedal along the Vendée Vélo and La Vélodyssée routes, with the ocean as your only horizon.
Taste the famous "Reine de la Baie de Bourgneuf" directly from a producer.
Discover the Passage du Gois, the mythical submersible route linking the Ile de Noirmoutier to the mainland.
Enjoy a gourmet break in a typical restaurant overlooking the sea.
Day 1 : On the trail of the oyster pearl
Morning: From port to port, the sea as far as the eye can see
Leaving from the Port du Collet, hop on your bike and head for the Vendée bike trail. As the miles go by, you'll be seduced by the vast expanses of sea spray, oyster farms and wild nature that will accompany you along the way. Your first stop is Port des Champs, 11 km away, where you'll marvel at the colorful oyster huts lining the quay and the impressive lock.
Afternoon: Gourmet break overlooking the ocean
What better way to enjoy oysters than direct from the producer? In Port des Champs, stop by Baptiste Raimbaud, one of the 200 local oyster farmers, and enjoy a few oysters on the terrace facing the sea. The "Queen of the Baie de Bourgneuf" will no longer hold any secrets for you!
Evening: A gentle Vendée night
For a peaceful, restful night's sleep, set down your suitcases at "La Valnière" bed & breakfast in Beauvoir-sur-Mer. In a warm and friendly setting, you'll appreciate the welcome and comfort of this charming home.
Day 2 : Between tides and flavors
Morning: Le Port Chinois, a magical setting
Take to the road again on La Vélodyssée. This cycle route takes you to the Port du Bec, known as the "Port Chinois" because of its pontoons supported by wooden pilings forming a tangle of poles reminiscent of the harbors of the China Sea. As the tides come in, you'll discover a most magical setting and the ballet of oyster farmers at rising tide.
Afternoon: Festival of iodized flavors
Seafood lovers rejoice! At Port du Bec, you'll be delighted by seafood. On the north shore, Le Mord'Eau offers mussel specialties, including "à l'Epoyenne" (cooked on pine thorns). On the south shore, Chez Melon tout est bon will delight you with seafood platters as generous as they are delicious!
End of the day: Le Passage du Gois, a mythical route
Follow the Vendée Vélo route to the mythical Passage du Gois! This submersible road, linking Beauvoir-sur-Mer to the Ile de Noirmoutier, is uncovered twice a day, allowing it to be crossed. At low tide, this unusual and emblematic passage is revealed to fishermen and walkers who come to enjoy the magnificent panorama.
Extend your stay
- Discover Noirmoutier's salt marshes and their fascinating history.
- Explore the charming narrow streets of the Ile de Noirmoutier and its medieval castle.
- Enjoy the island's sandy beaches and wild coves, accessible by bike.