There are so many different landscapes in the Pays de Saint Gilles Croix de Vie: the marshland in Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, Jaunay lake, the Grande Plage in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, to name but a few.
All these places provide the ideal setting for photography fans
Throughout the seasons, the natural environment is transformed and the colours change, meaning there is always a great photo opportunity!
In Brem-sur-Mer, time seems to stand still in the marshes of La Gachère. There’s such a peaceful atmosphere here. Late afternoon, I stop off near a fishing hut and watch as the sun goes down.
The marshes of La Gachère – Brem-sur-Mer
In Brétignolles-sur-Mer, there are some brave souls venturing into the water at the Plage de la Sauzaie, to take on the waves. This is known as one of the best places to surf in the Vendée, and it is the perfect place to get some action shots. Just like the surfers themselves, I have to be patient and wait for the perfect wave. My top tip is to use the ‘burst’ feature to be sure to get THE best photo.
La Sauzaie – Brétignolles sur Mer
The entrance to Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie marina is an iconic place. Here, between the Tour Joséphine lighthouse and Adon lighthouse, the sky blends into the ocean and the boats seem to be floating mid-air. I stop off near Adon lighthouse where I have a panoramic view of the channel and Garenne dune.
Adon Bay – Saint Gilles Croix de Vie
On the André Bénéteau walkway, facing the river Vie on the marshland side, the view at high tide is superb. I come here in the morning to photograph the boats bobbing up and down in the early morning light.
The ‘Vie’ – Saint Gilles Croix de Vie
In Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez, the Corniche Vendéenne (Vendée headland) is a popular place with passionate photographers. The jagged nature of the headland means it’s possible to play with the different light and angles. I like watching the sunset in the distance, with the 5 Pineaux rocks and the Trou du Diable (devil’s hole) in the foreground.
The 5 Pineaux – Corniche Vendéenne
The forest is also a great place for some superb photos of nature, especially from the viewpoint, where you’ll have a panoramic view over the maritime pine treetops. The forest is also the perfect place for fans of drone photography, thanks to the perfectly aligned paths and rows of trees!
The forest – Saint Hilaire de Riez
The natural environment in the Notre-Dame-de-Riez countryside is lush and diverse. Between the river Vie and the river Ligneron, the landscapes are varied and are even more magnificent at sunrise. The light here is ideal for taking photos that portray the peaceful, easy-going atmosphere.
Notre Dame de Riez
