In the spring Discover exuberant nature. Enjoy a restorative taste of the pre-season.
Since the half-term holidays, the island has donned brilliant colours. Shop signs have been repainted, bicycles have been cleaned, and at the slightest ray of light, people bask on the beach, still wearing a light jumper but thrilled to enjoy the beneficial sun. On the weekend, everyone makes the most of the opportunity to go on an outing or do some gardening, so long as they’re outside! The light imperceptibly begins to change, the trees and hedges grow new shoots, the birds become busy, and the potato fields have been hoed and are ready for sowing (and some are already dotted with green clumps). Pedestrians and cyclists change their pace, in less of a hurry to get out of the cold. People even have lunch outdoors, practically purring under the first rays of sun.
All the hallmarks of spring are there and, on the island, the first pan of new potatoes signals the return of spring!!!
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DISCOVER THE MILLS OF LA GUÉRINIÈRE
As you come to Noirmoutier Island, you will be surprised by the impressive number of windmills here. The island’s mills are ballet masters, elegant and romantic. Flocks of seagulls often come to salute their strange cousins with a tip of the wing. The mills too would love to still be playing with the wind, but they have lost their “wings”. But they still provide a faithful reminder of their millers and that bygone era.
BIRDING AT SÉBASTOPOL POLDER
Located at the entrance to Noirmoutier Island in Barbâtre, the Sébastopol Polder is a protected regional nature reserve. It is a meeting place for many scientists and nature lovers. This nesting spot is terrific for birding and for outdoor walks with the family.
Romantic Noirmoutier Island
Noirmoutier Island welcomes lovers with its preserved scenery and its authenticity.
What to do with children on Noirmoutier Island?
Noirmoutier Island is bursting with hidden treasures which sea dogs young and old will enjoy discovering together. Let our activities suggestions inspire you.
Picnic in the fresh air
From Barbâtre to Noirmoutier, many picnic tables are scattered through the woods and the pine forests along the coast of the island. These outdoor facilities surrounded by nature are also great for snacks, party games with family or friends, napping or pétanque (bowls). Little ones can also enjoy the beach, under your watchful eyes.
BUY FRESH AND LOCAL PRODUCTS AT THE ISLAND MARKETS
Going to the local market is definitely a must to discover the local products of the island of Noirmoutier and treat yourself to delicious tastings! Each village has its own market day, find here the day of your next gourmet stop.
Taste the most marine potatoes!
On Noirmoutier Island, potatoes thrive in the particularly mild climate and the salty air. They grow in sandy earth, enriched by seaweed, which is where they get their unique flavour.
FISH OF NOIRMOUTIER ISLAND
A walk along L’Herbaudière’s fishing port or through the island’s markets is enough to awaken the sense of any love of fine cuisine. From the fish auction to your plate, the island’s fishermen and chefs do credit to the fish caught daily, skilfully sublimating the fresh products.
Our local products
A mild climate, nourishing sea and fertile land: Noirmoutier Island has what it takes to cultivate quality, flavourful products. You can find all the products of Noirmoutier directly at the producers’ sites, at market stalls and in the shops. All our local products from the land and the sea are certified with the “Flavours of Noirmoutier Island” (“Saveurs de l’île de Noirmoutier”) label.
WALKING AMONGST THE PINES, FAR FROM THE HUSTLE & BUSTLE
Almost as soon as you cross the bridge, Barbâtre Forest to the west will capture your gaze. Planted with large maritime pines, the largest forest on the island runs alongside the beach, combining views of the sea with the pleasant scent of undergrowth where pine needles crunch underfoot.
