In Olonne-sur-Mer, a large forest by the sea

Adjacent to the long sandy beaches, the large state-owned forest of Olonne-sur-Mer is a protected area that’s a pleasure to immerse yourself in.

With its vegetated dunes and shady undergrowth, it’s a charming idea for a walk during your stay at a campsite in Olonne sur Mer.

Discover the forest between salt marshes and beaches

The Vendée is known for its bocages and marshes, but at the gateway to Les Sables-d’Olonne you’ll also find a classified forest, forming a unique environment. The appeal of these wooded or vegetated dunes, which protect the coastline as well as the villages, comes from the rampart they form, which is not disturbed by urbanization.

The 1120 hectares that stretch along the 8 km of Olonne-sur-Mer beach give nature free rein, much to the delight of walkers. Along with the pines, oaks and oyats emblematic of the grey dunes, this natural area is also home to numerous species of flowers, such as gorse and the delicate omphalode.

Trails for short and long walks

Signposted paths are ideal for walking in the Olonne forest, as well as for cycling and horse-riding. Whether you’re looking for a short loop or a hike lasting several hours, there’s a wide choice of itineraries to explore the forest.

Signposted in yellow from the Sainte-Émilienne parking lot, the Conches Bressaudières circuit takes walkers for just over a kilometer, accessible to all abilities. Set between forest and marsh, it is the perfect link between different types of landscape.

For a hike with a little more elevation gain, don’t miss the Menhir circuit, covering 5 km from the Grande Pointe area. You’ll follow undergrowth paths and the Sauveterre beach, but the real highlight is the climb up the Butte de ski, paved with pine needles, and the search for the famous local menhir.

What can you do in the vicinity of this forest?

To the north of the Olonne-sur-Mer forest lies Bretignolles-sur-Mer, a commune that lives to the rhythm of the ocean and offers an important spot for water sports activities. At the southern end, La Chaume marks the end of the forest, one of the many picturesque districts of Les Sables-d’Olonne known for its colorful fishermen’s houses.

Other villages, once attached to the town, have also retained their old-fashioned character. La Girvière, la Bréchoire, la Bauduère and l’Allerie, where you’ll find the Bois Soleil campsite, are all districts worth exploring on a stroll. And don’t forget Ile Penotte and its famous colorful houses decorated with seashells.

Cultural visits to Les Sables-d’Olonne include the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and the charming Château de Pierre Levée, with its Petit Trianon feel.

For nature walks, don’t miss the salt marshes, which can be visited by boat, for example, to discover the secrets of the salt harvest. The marshes are also a nature reserve, home to many species of birds, which you can patiently observe.

The beaches can be reached via the Olonne forest. So don’t miss the most famous of them all, Sauveterre beach, a huge stretch of sand that has retained its wild character and offers absolutely sublime sunsets at Olonne sur Mer.

Where to stay on a cheap campsite in Olonne-sur-Mer?

Ideally located for discovering the magnificent Olonne forest by the sea, the Bois Soleil campsite welcomes you for a vacation just a stone’s throw from Sauveterre beach, cycle paths and footpaths. Our multi-faceted campsite offers a wide choice of mobile homes to suit all budgets, as well as pitches for tents, caravans and motor homes.

The campsite’s large water park features two swimming pools, a paddling pool and waterslides. The sports fields, playgrounds and kids’ club will also delight the whole family, as part of the range of activities and entertainment on offer.

With its incomparable geographical location, our campsite between the sea and the forest of Olonne-sur-Mer is the perfect place to discover the Vendée!