Such a beautiful setting surrounded by glorious gardens that slope down to a river, Maison Zenith is set in a small hamlet in the Vendée department around an hour south-east of Nantes and the Loire River. The famous theme park, Puy du Fou, is only a 15-minute drive away.
The nearest boulangerie is in the local village just over 5km (a short drive or cycle ride) whilst further amenities can be found in Les Herbiers (12km), home to several restaurants including options for fine-dining and a twice-weekly indoor food market.
With fantastic walking and hiking opportunities as well as bird-watching, this is a fantastic region for nature lovers – the vast La Cité des Oiseaux (12km) is not to be missed. You can also admire the old windmills north of Les Herbiers at Moulin Mont des Alouettes and look out for events taking place at the large medieval castle, Château Tiffauges.
The attractive town of Cholet (32km) is known for its annual festivities, Museum of Art and History and textile heritage whilst historic La Roche-sur-Yon (40km) is home to the Haras de la Vendée equestrian centre. One of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’, Vouvant (50km), with its charming riverside setting, is located in the Vendée.
Nantes (58km) is a wonderful day out, a bustling city by the banks of the Loire River. Head to the city’s covered food market which is open six mornings a week, visit the Musée d'arts and enjoy a glass of muscadet or a traditional crepe in an atmospheric city café. Explore by the banks of the river and take a walk through the tropical Jardin Extraordinaire.
The riverside city of Angers (99km) is another highlight of this part of France, as is Saumur (108km), with its sparkling white wine and Cadre Noir equestrian school. Rochemenier Village Troglodytique (93km) and Fontevraud-l'Abbaye (118km) could also be reached for an amazing day out.
In the other direction, just over an hour away, is the Vendée coastline and traditional seaside towns including Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie (75km) and La Tranche-sur-Mer (81km) alongside a sweeping coastline of Atlantic beaches, surfing and other watersport opportunities.
The Region
From the Loire estuary to cosmopolitan La Rochelle and historic Saintes, this part of the Atlantic coast and its surroundings attract visitors who come for the region’s superb beaches, charming market towns, delicious oysters and rich history.
Starting just south of the fine city of Nantes, the Marais wetlands are a paradise for keen bird watchers and the perfect place for peaceful nature walks, cycle rides and canoeing through the marshes. Then there’s the blue-flag beaches, seaside resorts and fishing villages of the Côte de Jade alongside walking paths, cycling trails and horse-riding opportunities. The sunsets along this part of the coastline are especially idyllic.
The Atlantic island of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île is loved for its vast beaches, sand dunes and watersports. Admire its incredible landscapes, dig for shellfish, learn about the history of the island’s salt production and cycle to your hearts content passing historic sites, forests, salt marshes and coast – stop off for oysters en route for an authentic island experience.
Back to the mainland, discover characterful markets in the likes of Machecoul, Challans and La Roche-sur-Yon with Vendée specialities including beef, pork, Challans poultry, oysters, mussels, sardines, salt, white beans and a great range seasonal fruit and vegetables.
The Atlantic beaches of the Vendée coastline are wonderful, ideal for surfing and other water-based adventures, many backed by endless nature and woodland. La Tranche-sur-Mer has earned its ‘Famille Plus’ designation with its blue-flag beach, attractive promenade and family-friendly activities. For a change of scene, explore Le Marais Poitevin by boat and appreciate it’s magnificent natural surroundings -it's known as the ‘Green Venice’,
Puy du Fou is another highlight of this region, often considered one of the best theme parks in the world with its immersive adventures, period villages and spectacular shows.
Further south, passing La Rochelle and the wonderful islands of Île de Ré and Île d'Oléron, head inland in the Charente Maritime and spend time in the historic town of Saint-Jean-d'Angely with its Abbaye Royale, a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the Santiago de Compostela route.
Historians will also adore the 11th century Abbaye aux Dames in Saintes. The city’s old quarter is a joy to explore whilst the Roman amphitheatre and Basilique Saint Eutrope de Saintes, another UNESCO World Heritage site, are a must-see during your time. End your day with a cruise along the Charente, a picturesque river that continues east towards Cognac, Jarnac and the vibrant city of Angoulême.
