Jard-Sur-Mer: Coast, Walking Trails and Heritage

Coastal Landscape and Walking Trails

The wooded coastal area of Jard-Sur-Mer covers 350 hectares and has been preserved from extensive urban development. Between Boisvinet and Plage de la Mine, sandy beaches alternate with rocky areas, where people go rock fishing.

A walking trail at Pointe du Payré starts at the Plage de la Mine car park, passes through the forest and offers views of the ocean and the Payré estuary. Check the conditions on the cliffs locally.

The area around the Payré estuary, behind the Veillon dune, has been part of the Natura 2000 programme since 2009 because of its diverse habitats and notable species.

Cycling Route and Coastal Activities

The 28.5-kilometre “Ça roule avec Richard Cœur de Lion” cycling loop runs between Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and Jard-Sur-Mer. Nine information panels at key points provide information about Richard Cœur de Lion and his era. Unlike the walking trail at Pointe du Payré, the loop has a different focus: it combines cycling with historical and cultural information, while the forest trail on foot leads to views of the ocean and estuary. You can choose between two different kinds of outings, without assuming a specific walking or cycling time.

Surfing, windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding are available on the coast of Jard-Sur-Mer. Providers and seasonal access may vary. If one of these activities is important to your trip, check the options in advance.

Discover the Heritage

The free heritage guide can be used independently: QR codes link to videos with commentary about twelve emblematic sites. Introduced in 2024, the guide is available through current municipal visitor channels. Its format connects the individual stops with audiovisual explanations, without requiring a guided tour.

The Church of Sainte-Radegonde is an 11th-century Romanesque church. Guided tours are offered there on Tuesday and Thursday mornings in July and August, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; check the dates before your trip. The foundation stone of Chapelle Sainte-Anne was laid in 1650. Inside, a small 17th-century wooden boat hangs as an ex-voto—a votive offering in the shape of a boat.

The Moulin de Conchette windmill was built in the late 19th century and fully renovated. The landscaped walking trails offer views of the ocean. The site thus highlights two distinct aspects: its architectural history and its coastal views.

Seasonal Market

The 2026 seasonal events programme included the “Mercredis Gourmands” market: on Wednesdays in July and August, it brought local food producers to the pedestrianised Rue de l’Océan. If you plan to visit the market as part of your trip, check the dates for the period in question.

Discover more destinations: Notre-Dame-de-Riez, Breuil-Barret, Saint-Mesmin, Cugand, Le Langon, Sainte-Hermine, Nalliers, Froidfond

For the broader travel overview: Vendée.