Velluire: Cycling Routes, Nature and Local History

Velluire offers a range of ways to enjoy a stay: cycling circuits, walking routes, nature watching and historical landmarks. Some nature and leisure activities are located in the wider area of Le Poiré-sur-Velluire or Les Velluire-sur-Vendée. If you are looking for a hotel in Velluire, the specific route lengths and place references can help you plan your activities.

Cycling circuits of varying lengths

The easy Les Voies cycling circuit is 17.9 kilometres long and starts at the car park on Rue du Château in Velluire. The route follows the Vendée, around Bois Joli and across open plains. Les Huttes is also designated as an easy cycling circuit: at 24.7 kilometres, it is around 6.8 kilometres longer. It passes through the Marais poitevin, including Velluire and Bois de Loyauté. The routes can therefore be distinguished by their stated lengths and the landscapes and places named for each. As route details can change, it is advisable to check the current route before setting out.

Exploring on foot

The family-friendly Les Chaintres walking route starts in the centre of Velluire and follows the Vendée. Its starting point is behind the church on Place de Verdun; the route is about 2.7 kilometres long. The Le Bois Joli walking route runs from the banks of the Vendée to the edge of Bois Joli. There are two picnic areas with children's play equipment along this route. Another play area and a large shelter are available at the starting point; toilets are nearby. The two routes therefore differ both in their described course and in the facilities mentioned.

Nature in the wider area

In the wider area of Les Velluire-sur-Vendée, the Autour du Communal walking route circles the regional nature reserve of the Communal marsh at Le Poiré-sur-Velluire. A nature trail with observation platforms and freely accessible binoculars makes it possible to watch wildlife there. Another nature trail in the wider area of Le Poiré-sur-Velluire is De Belle en Baisse. It has been open since 2024 and includes nine information-board stops and three observation platforms in the regional nature reserve.

The annual festive opening of the Communal marsh takes place in mid-April. The programme includes grazing cattle and horses, a producers' market, nature outings and carriage rides. Check the specific dates and programme before your trip. In the wider area of Les Velluire-sur-Vendée, there are also three leisure areas: two at Bois de Velluire and one on the Vendée. They are for picnicking and relaxing.

Local history and historic buildings

The church in Velluire is partially listed as a historic monument. Its apse was protected as a monument by decree of 26 December 1927. In the wider area of Le Poiré-sur-Velluire, the façades and roofs of Château du Chastellier Barlot have been protected as a monument since 23 September 1977. These details concern two different buildings and protection dates; they do not imply public access.

Velluire's former towpaths are also part of the local history and are used by walkers, anglers, birdwatchers and nature photographers. The Hutte du Cul-des-Mottes on the towpath is described as the last remaining small farm there. An elaborately engraved solid-gold torc, found in the Massigny quarries, is cited as evidence of Velluire's strong Celtic presence. The quarries had been known for centuries for their white stone, which was used for numerous private homes and public buildings. Velluire railway station was part of the commune's transformation in the 19th century.

Local specialities and evenings by the Vendée

La Gautronnette in Velluire offers local specialities such as brioche, gâche and several galettes, including Brioche de la Mariée, Galette Angélique Pur Beurre and Galette de l’Aunis. It is best to check before your visit whether these are currently available. The Guinguette La Belle Verte welcomes visitors for sociable evenings on the banks of the Vendée near the Hutte de Velluire. Check current opening times and the programme before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Olonne-Sur-Mer, La Tardiere, Palluau, La Chapelle-Palluau, Noirmoutier-En-Lʼîle, Fougéré, Maillezais, Saint-Mars-la-Réorthe.

For the wider travel overview: Vendée.