The «Petites Cités de Caractère» distinction is awarded to small towns and villages with an outstanding architectural and landscape heritage.
Apremont, castle and lake
Let yourself be seduced by the Renaissance château of Apremont and the gentle stroll along the lake.
The village and lake are largely accessible for people with reduced mobility, with play areas and green spaces for children. The castle and surrounding villages will appeal to heritage enthusiasts, and the lake offers an ideal setting for walks or water sports activities.
Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, heritage and sea air
Between castle, salt marshes and beaches, enjoy a full day between heritage and ocean. The not-to-be-missed ‘Passage du Gois’, a submersible route, offers a unique experience depending on the tides.
Noirmoutier is accessible to people with reduced mobility, with its town centre, harbour and certain beaches equipped for this purpose. Children will love the salt marshes, cycle paths and adapted beaches. The castle and salt marshes will captivate heritage lovers. The cycle paths, beaches and submersible road will help you make the most of the day and provide an original experience for young and old alike.
Mallièvre, a former village of weavers
Discover the smallest village of character in the Vendée, nestling in the green valley of the Sèvre Nantaise.
Mallièvre charms with its granite houses and natural setting. Accessibility for people with reduced mobility is limited, but a partial visit is still possible. Close to the Puy du Fou, the Sèvre Nantaise valley is perfect for a walk or cycle ride. The history of the weaving village and the local heritage will delight culture buffs.
Vouvant, between the Middle Ages and nature
Climb up to the Mélusine tower and enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the Vendée, nestling in the heart of nature.
Discover Vouvant along its cobbled streets, ramparts and old houses. The village is partially accessible for people with reduced mobility, with walkable areas and beautiful views. The nearby forest and lake of Mervent are perfect for picnics, walks and children's play areas and nature activities.
Heritage lovers will be enchanted by the medieval remains and the charm of the narrow streets. Sports enthusiasts will love the lake and the hiking trails around the lake and in the forest.
Nieul sur l'Autise, heritage and Poitevin marshes
Let the serenity of its Romanesque abbey surprise you before a peaceful stroll in the heart of the Marais Poitevin.
The heart of the village is generally accessible to wheelchair users, particularly around the abbey. The day continues in Maillezais and the Marais Poitevin, where a boat trip will delight young and old alike. History buffs will love the Romanesque abbey and the local religious heritage, while sports enthusiasts will enjoy the footpaths and cycle paths along the canals.
Mortagne-sur-Sèvre, valley and views
Enjoy superb views over the Sèvre Nantaise valley, between heritage and nature!
The old town centre is partially accessible for people with reduced mobility. Children will love the wide open spaces and the valley lanes for stretching their legs. The old houses and charm of the village will appeal to heritage lovers. The footpaths along the Sèvre Nantaise are ideal for sporting walks.
Foussais-Payré and the Faymoreau Mining Centre
Stroll through the picturesque narrow streets of Foussais-Payré, then set off to discover the Faymoreau Mining Centre, a unique site where the history of the miners of the Vendée bocage comes to life!
The village of Foussais-Payré has an authentic atmosphere and old houses. Just 15 minutes away, the Centre Minier offers a fascinating immersion into the galleries and the life of the miners, with interactive areas that are very popular with children.
Heritage lovers will love the architecture of the village and the industrial history of the museum. Sports enthusiasts and families will enjoy the footpaths and circuits around the mining centre. The site and village are partially accessible to people with reduced mobility, so everyone can make the most of this original and friendly excursion.
