{{filter.label}}
Holiday in Talmont Saint Hilaire
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire is a charming coastal town in the Vendée department of western France. Its history dates back to the medieval period when it was an important stronghold. The most notable historical site is the Château de Talmont, a fortress built in the 11th century by the Dukes of Aquitaine. The castle later became associated with Richard the Lionheart, who strengthened its defenses. Over time, the town evolved from a feudal stronghold into a peaceful maritime and agricultural community.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Talmont-Saint-Hilaire grew as a coastal destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful landscapes, beaches, and seafood culture. Today, it blends medieval heritage with tourism, making it a popular spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Description
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire is known for its mix of historic sites, scenic coastline, and natural beauty. It sits along the Atlantic Ocean, near the famous Marais Poitevin marshlands. The town features charming streets, a picturesque harbor at Port Bourgenay, and stunning coastal cliffs and beaches.
Château de Talmont – The medieval fortress that dominates the town’s skyline, offering stunning views and interactive historical experiences.
Plage du Veillon – A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by dunes and forests, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
Marais Salants – Traditional salt marshes where visitors can learn about local salt production.
Port Bourgenay – A lively marina with restaurants and activities, serving as a gateway to the Vendée coastline.
Typical Food
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and the Vendée region are famous for fresh seafood, local specialties, and rustic French cuisine. Some typical foods include:
Moules de Bouchot – Small, flavorful mussels harvested from local waters.
Sardines de Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie – A Vendée specialty, often grilled or preserved in oil.
Oysters from the Atlantic Coast – Fresh and briny, best enjoyed with a glass of local white wine.
Jambon de Vendée – A cured ham, often served with butter and bread.
Fion Vendéen – A traditional custard tart from the region.
Brioche Vendéenne – A sweet, soft bread with a slightly buttery flavor, often enjoyed at breakfast.
Local wines from the Fiefs Vendéens appellation pair perfectly with the region’s seafood and charcuterie.
Activities
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire offers a mix of historical, outdoor, and maritime activities, making it an ideal destination for families, history buffs, and nature lovers.
Explore Château de Talmont – Experience medieval history through interactive exhibits and reenactments.
Beach activities at Plage du Veillon – Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and sand yachting.
Water sports – Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing in the Atlantic.
Cycling and hiking – Discover scenic trails along the coast and through the marshlands.
Golf at Port Bourgenay – A scenic golf course overlooking the ocean.
Visit the Aquarium de Vendée – A great spot for families to learn about marine life.
Taste local seafood – Dine at harborside restaurants for fresh oysters, mussels, and fish dishes.
Salt marsh tours – Learn about traditional salt production and its importance to the region.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Talmont-Saint-Hilaire grew as a coastal destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful landscapes, beaches, and seafood culture. Today, it blends medieval heritage with tourism, making it a popular spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Description
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire is known for its mix of historic sites, scenic coastline, and natural beauty. It sits along the Atlantic Ocean, near the famous Marais Poitevin marshlands. The town features charming streets, a picturesque harbor at Port Bourgenay, and stunning coastal cliffs and beaches.
Château de Talmont – The medieval fortress that dominates the town’s skyline, offering stunning views and interactive historical experiences.
Plage du Veillon – A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by dunes and forests, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
Marais Salants – Traditional salt marshes where visitors can learn about local salt production.
Port Bourgenay – A lively marina with restaurants and activities, serving as a gateway to the Vendée coastline.
Typical Food
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and the Vendée region are famous for fresh seafood, local specialties, and rustic French cuisine. Some typical foods include:
Moules de Bouchot – Small, flavorful mussels harvested from local waters.
Sardines de Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie – A Vendée specialty, often grilled or preserved in oil.
Oysters from the Atlantic Coast – Fresh and briny, best enjoyed with a glass of local white wine.
Jambon de Vendée – A cured ham, often served with butter and bread.
Fion Vendéen – A traditional custard tart from the region.
Brioche Vendéenne – A sweet, soft bread with a slightly buttery flavor, often enjoyed at breakfast.
Local wines from the Fiefs Vendéens appellation pair perfectly with the region’s seafood and charcuterie.
Activities
Talmont-Saint-Hilaire offers a mix of historical, outdoor, and maritime activities, making it an ideal destination for families, history buffs, and nature lovers.
Explore Château de Talmont – Experience medieval history through interactive exhibits and reenactments.
Beach activities at Plage du Veillon – Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and sand yachting.
Water sports – Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing in the Atlantic.
Cycling and hiking – Discover scenic trails along the coast and through the marshlands.
Golf at Port Bourgenay – A scenic golf course overlooking the ocean.
Visit the Aquarium de Vendée – A great spot for families to learn about marine life.
Taste local seafood – Dine at harborside restaurants for fresh oysters, mussels, and fish dishes.
Salt marsh tours – Learn about traditional salt production and its importance to the region.
Click to show the map