Blockhaus Hospital Museum, Sables d’Olonne

Known for its enchanting Atlantic shores, Les Sables-d’Olonne is home to a remarkable monument, a silent witness to the past: the Musée du Blockhaus Hôpital.

This historic site, anchored in the heart of this vibrant seaside town, invites you to immerse yourself in the dark history of the Second World War.

Museum history

Rooted in the picturesque town of Les Sables-d’Olonne, the Musée du Blockhaus Hôpital has lived through some highly emotional times. Its massive silhouette, a vestige of the troubled era of the Second World War, first served as amakeshift shelter andhospital for German soldiers.

It was in the mid-90s, under the impetus of history buff Jean-Michel Jousse, that this austere bunker began its metamorphosis. His vision: to transform this space of war into a place of learning and remembrance, so that future generations never forget.

What about this vision today?

Today, visitors enter the museum as if in a time machine. The various rooms, meticulously laid out, plunge visitors back into daily life during the Occupation. The exhibits, arranged with surgical precision, depict moving tales of a bygone era. From carefully preserved uniforms to original medical equipment, everything is part of the historical reconstruction.

The museum also reflects local and national history, thanks to a rich collection of period documents, silent but eloquent witnesses to this dark period. These rare items add a palpable dimension to the historical reality that the museum strives to convey.

This makes the Musée du Blockhaus Hôpital an essential place of remembrance. A place where history is not just told, but lived and breathed, leaving an indelible impression on every visitor.

Visits

The Musée du Blockhaus Hôpital, a gateway to history, offers daily tours throughout the year. From October to March, the museum is open from 10am to 6pm, and from April to September, from 10am to 7pm. To make the most of your visit, allow about an hour. Please note that last admission is one hour before closing time.

The museum offers special rates for groups of 15 or more. For further information, please contact them. Finally, the museum closes in January and reopens during the February vacations. Whether you’re looking for a one-off or a regular visit, the Musée du Blockhaus Hôpital offers an immersive immersion in a bygone era.

What to do around Les Sables d’Olonne?

Following a visit to the Musée du Blockhaus in Sables d’Olonne, why not further enrich your experience by exploring what else the town has to offer? The opportunity to discover the Sables d’Olonne Zoo is just around the corner. A sanctuary for many endangered species, it’s a privileged exploration in an authentic natural setting.

Then continue your exploration by heading to Île Penotte, a singular district where art is displayed on the facades of houses. Shell walls depict fabulous mosaics, creating an almost fairytale-like atmosphere.

The charm of Les Sables d’Olonne doesn’t stop there. With its golden beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, it’s hard to resist the call of idleness or the urge to take part in the water sports on offer.

And if you’re still thirsty for adventure, there’s plenty more to discover in Les Sables d’Olonne. Local gastronomy, artisanal stores, cultural events… Every step you take in Les Sables d’Olonne is a promise of discovery.

Your camping holiday near Les Sables d’Olonne

The 4-star Bois Soleil campsite, 15 minutes from Les Sables d’Olonne, is a veritable oasis of tranquility on the Atlantic coast. Thanks to its proximity to the seaside resort of Les Sables d’Olonne and the beaches, holidaymakers enjoy a prime location for an unforgettable stay.

The campsite offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every taste. For nature lovers, there are 30 pitches for tents, caravans or motorhomes. Comfort seekers can opt for one of the 186 mobile homes, offering up to 4 bedrooms.

The campsite is also distinguished by its aquatic area. Two pools heated to 28 degrees are available to residents. One is indoor, offering gentle moments of relaxation from April to September, while the other is open-air, inviting you to cool off from June 16 to September 18.

Finally, life at the Bois Soleil campsite is not only synonymous with idleness, but also with entertainment. A wide range of entertainment and sporting activities are organized throughout the summer to enhance your stay, making your visit to Les Sables d’Olonne and the Blockhaus Hopital museum a memorable experience.