You dream of stress-free vacation Where we really take the time? Welcome to the Land of Pickles! Here, we disconnect, we savor and we breathe. 🌿 And above all, we take the time to do nothing (It's an art, and you'll become a master at it!). Whether you're an expert at napping under the pines, a fan of strolls along the water, or a connoisseur of sunny terraces, you've come to the right place. We've put together a special little guide for the relaxed traveler! 📖
You hesitate between nature and ocean for the holidays? Good news: here, no need to choose! In the Land of Achards, we have both within reach of a towel. One foot in the the countryside, the other a few fathoms from the Atlantic 🏖️, and you, in perfect balance… On a deckchair.
1. Take the time to live: here, we operate in slow motion!
Less stress, more well-being: that’s the golden rule. We take our foot off the pedal, we breathe… And we enjoy.
Walk around the Jaunay Lake, it's a bit like launching a meditation app 🧘♂️, except that here, no ads, just the rustling of leaves and the singing of birds in the background. Strolling on the the market, it's a life-size podcast, with authentic discussions and the enticing aromas of cheeses and local products.
And the traffic jams? They are rare here… Except perhaps those of the flocks of sheep of Jean-Luc, a shepherd at the Chancellor's Farm 🐑 ! As for hiking, forget the stopwatch and let yourself be guided by a nature expert: a donkey. With the donkey farm at the Tour des Ânes, “taking your time” takes on its full meaning, especially when your long-eared companion decides it’s time for a snack 🥕.
Live at a different pace: yours (and especially his).
2. Take a breath of fresh air… Or the whole pot!
Our green setting is not just a decor: it is a life-size playground!
Whether you are a Sunday hiker or a seasoned cyclist, there is always a trail to explore. Besides, if you thought that the Vendée was flat, get on a bike and let the coasts of the Pays des Achards surprise you!
Want to change your perspective? 🛶 Paddle on the Jaunay Lake by canoe or paddle! More of a patience-testing type? A fishing rod in hand, it's an opportunity to meditate facing the water (with, who knows, a fish on the end of the line to reward your zenitude) 🎣.
For those who prefer to gain height, head to thetreetop adventure course above the ponds. A real remake of Tarzan… except that here, the scream on the zip line is rarely as heroic!
In short, whether you like climbing, riding, paddling or simply breathing deeply, one thing is certain: fresh air is to be consumed without moderation!
3. Our producers and artisans in the spotlight
Forget the glitz and red carpets, here, the real stars wear rubber boots and have their hands in the dirt… Or in mohair wool 🧶? Whether it’s in Z'Animaux Vegetable Garden or Fromagerie Pierrette, every meeting is perfect!
You thought natural dyes were limited to tie and dye 70s? Wait until you meet a local dyer : between plants and pigments, you will discover that nature has more nuances than a rainbow 🌈.
And for an even more immersive experience, spend the night at a passionate host. Vendée hospitality, it's not just a cozy bed: it's also a good slice of fresh bread for breakfast, anecdotes, real moments of exchange, and sometimes even an impromptu lesson on the local fauna... With the chickens from the garden in guest stars 🐓.
4. Sharing, again and again
In the Land of Pickles, we don't just eat to feed ourselves, we savor, we share, and above all, we favor home-made. No chain fast food or bike delivery. Here, we go directly at the producer, because nothing replaces the taste of sharing 🍽️.
Taste a homemade prefou is embrace local culture…And potentially say goodbye to fresh breath! But it doesn’t matter, as long as you’re smiling 😁!
A visit of salt marshes from Île d'Olonne will make you understand that even salt has a story, and that it deserves much more than a simple role as an extra on your plate. What about the soft Vendée brioche, accompanied by a glass of trouspinette 🍷 or a nice plate of mogettes? It's already making our mouths water 😋.
5. Quiet exploration: when adventure is easy
No need to go to the other side of the world to live a real adventure. Here, exploration is done gently, without stress or jet lag 🌍.
Want a 100% mystery exploration? Head to the Girouard village to test the game LegendR® and awaken the investigative soul within you 🕵️.
More of a nature person? 🥾 Go hiking on the trails of Beaulieu-sous-la-Roche or let yourself be carried on horseback through the undergrowth.
And for a touch of magic ✨, stay awake during a “Night of the Stars” evening on the banks of the JaunayAdventure is also knowing how to look up and take the time to admire.
6. Farniente 1 – Guilt 0
Forget the hustle and bustle, the tight schedules and the desire to “make the most” of your vacation. In the Land of Achards, idleness is not an option, it is a way of life.…and he takes responsibility for it without the slightest guilt!
Settle down with a good book 📖 by a body of water, let the sun warm your eyelids… And presto, without even realizing it, you’re in the middle of a nap 💤 (yes, yes, that counts as an activity). For those who like more sporty relaxation, a yoga session in the wild or a visit to the spa will get you off on the right foot. Are you nodding off 😴? A well-placed hammock and a gentle breeze will do the rest.
We guarantee it: letting go has never been so easy!
7. Conviviality is our driving force (and it runs all year round!)
In the Land of Achards, we like to meet up, chat and enjoy ourselves together. No need for an excuse to share a good time: opt for an open air concert 🎶 for a summer evening, a gourmet hike where each step brings you closer to a feast, or even a simple picnic in the countryside with friends, remaking the world in all simplicity.
And because conviviality also means raising your glass to toast, let yourself be tempted by a craft beer from The Perched in the company of locals 🍺. Night markets, shows at chatbaret, the lively guinguettes 💃… Every moment becomes an opportunity to create memories!
