Mesnard-La-Barotière: Nature, Water and Heritage

At Lac de La Tricherie and in the Bois du Défend

Lac de La Tricherie is a 17-hectare body of water. You can swim, go pedal boating and fish there. Access to water activities may vary by season. If you have a particular activity firmly in mind, check its availability before your visit.

On the eastern shore, you can spot numerous birds among the oak trees. You can therefore experience the lake both through its water activities and by birdwatching on the eastern shore. The Bois du Défend offers a different focus on nature: the area is notable for its great diversity of animal and plant species.

Footpaths have been laid out in the Bois du Défend. Some local trails, including trails in the Bois du Défend, are accessible to bicycles, strollers and wheelchairs. Surface conditions may vary; take this into account when planning your route and check conditions before setting out. When choosing your outing, you can consider water activities, birdwatching and nature trails as distinct options.

Activities in La Tricherie

At its site at 9, La Tricherie, 85500 Mesnard-la-Barotière, Tépacap Vendée offers tree climbing and the Accrosplash floating inflatable course. You can choose between an activity in the trees and a course on the water. Availability may vary by season; check before your visit.

The 2026 activity format also includes the “Jeu de piste – Sac à dos” game. It lets you rediscover La Tricherie independently through navigation and challenges in nature. It combines exploring the area with a task that involves finding your way and taking on challenges in nature.

Murals and historic sites

The former Saint-Christophe church contains 13th-century murals, discovered by chance in the choir in 1950. The place and date of their discovery give the paintings a specific historical context. In October 2006, the Conseil général de la Vendée set up a museographic display in the former church entitled “A l’écoute des images, Mille ans de fresques et de peintures murales en Vendée”, as well as an audio system explaining the murals in the choir.

The chapel of the Vieux Château is also one of the area’s historic landmarks. By decree of March 16, 1987, it was entered in the supplementary inventory of historic monuments. It is on private property and cannot currently be visited.

A playful extra

The “Le Secret de Perrine” activity booklet costs €5 and is available in shops in Mesnard-la-Barotière and at the Les Herbiers Tourist Office. Check availability before you arrive.

When planning your stay, you can first consider whether you would like to focus on water activities, trails and nature, or historic landmarks. These differences offer practical guidance when looking for hotels in Mesnard-La-Barotière.

Discover more destinations: Longeville-Sur-Mer, Pouzauges, Sainte-Flaive-Des-Loups, Saint-Prouant, Sérigné, Cugand, La Boissière-des-Landes, Saint-Christophe-Du-Ligneron.

For the broader travel overview: Vendée.