Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez include a diverse range of natural and historical sites. The region features extensive pine forests, coastal paths, and sandy beaches, offering varied outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as lighthouses and castles, alongside natural landscapes like the Pays-de-Monts national forest. Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez provides opportunities for cycling, walking, and discovering local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez
- The most popular attractions is Bicycle path - Pays-de-Monts national forest, a cycle way that offers routes through pine forests and along the sea. This extensive national forest covers over 2,200 hectares, providing a natural environment for exploration and easy walking trails Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez.
- Another must-see spot is Grosse Terre lighthouse, a viewpoint and man-made monument. This lighthouse is visible for over 33 kilometers and stands 17 meters above ground level, offering views of the sea.
- Visitors also love Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road, a beach area with a cycle way. This route features a seaside composed of rocks and small sandy beaches, providing a scenic path along the coast.
- Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez is known for its coastal cycle paths, historical lighthouses, and natural forest areas. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from family friendly activities to cultural sites.
- The attractions around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 390 upvotes and 15 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: August 16, 2026
Bicycle path - Pays-de-Monts national forest
Highlight • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Grosse Terre lighthouse
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
André Bénéteau Footbridge
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road
Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sallertaine
Highlight • Religious Site
The Romanesque church, the artisan island, the garden of Vaulieu, the old mill and the mill of Rairé make it an exceptional site.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez
Other adventures around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez
Tips from the Community
The Saint-Martin church is an 11th and 12th century church located in Sallertaine, France[1]. It belongs to the diocese of Luçon. It is dedicated to Saint Martin. This church is the remainder of an old priory founded at the beginning of the 11th century, dependent on the abbey of Marmoutier. Some masonry from the primitive church remains in the walls. The current state of the building is the result of a major reconstruction carried out at the end of the 12th century. The church was consecrated in 1173 by the bishop of Poitiers. The vaulting of the crossing of the transept presents a unique curiosity in Western France. Clearly seeking to imitate the so-called Plantagenet Gothic style, the master mason, who does not seem familiar with this new technique, created a Romanesque dome, sufficient in itself, which he adorned with ribs, without structural necessity, but which gives it an appearance evoking the Angevin vaults. Some elements of frescoes remain in the nave, which was once entirely covered, particularly an exceptional crucifixion because Christ still has his eyes open. Part of the nave has been demolished. The church suffered damage in 1568 during the Wars of Religion. Major restorations took place from 1617. The narrow Romanesque windows were enlarged, the crossing is surmounted by a timber spire. Three altarpieces adorn the apse and the transepts, leading to the destruction of the south absidiole and the installation of the sacristy in the southern one, separated from the transept by a wall supporting the new altar. Damaged during the revolution, becoming too narrow in the 19th century, it was replaced by a new parish church in 1906. It should then have been destroyed, but Abbot Grelier, passionate about archaeology, managed to have it classified as a historical monument in 1910 and 1912. However, the classification only included the western end of the nave, which the municipality had demolished in 1915. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancienne_%C3%A9glise_Saint-Martin_de_Sallertaine
0
0
La Passerelle André Bénéteau (Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie) Since 2011, the "André Bénéteau" cycle-pedestrian footbridge runs alongside the Concorde bridge in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie. It is built a few meters upstream, on the piers of the old railway bridge destroyed in 1981. https://photos-de-vendee.blogspot.com/2014/09/la-passerelle-andre-beneteau-saint.html
0
0
Magnificent Romanesque church from the 11th and 12th centuries 😍
0
0
Beautiful little church in the middle of the historic town centre. The square in front of it offers a good starting point for hikes
1
0
Great view - Avoid in summer
0
0
That all sounds very nice, sunshine! In the pouring rain we were happy to get across the bridge quickly and using the shortest route!
1
1
As we drove past in the rain we saw this striking lighthouse.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for easy walking or cycling around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez?
For easy walking and cycling, the Bicycle path - Pays-de-Monts national forest is an excellent choice. This extensive forest covers over 2,200 hectares, offering routes through pine forests and along the sea. Another great option is the Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road, which features a scenic path along the seaside with rocks and small sandy beaches.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions to visit?
Yes, you can explore the charming village of Sallertaine, known for its Romanesque church, artisan island, and old mill, set amidst lush greenery and marshes. Additionally, the Commequiers Castle, a partially restored moated castle from the 15th and 16th centuries, offers a glimpse into the region's past, though it is currently closed for public access. A treasure hunt for children is available to discover its history.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or lighthouses?
The Grosse Terre lighthouse is a prominent landmark offering views of the sea and the Île D'Yeu. Standing 17 meters above ground level, it's visible for over 33 kilometers and is the last of its type in France. The Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road also provides scenic coastal views.
What outdoor activities are popular around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez?
The region is ideal for various outdoor activities. Cycling is very popular, with routes through the Pays-de-Monts national forest and along the Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road. You can find numerous cycling routes in the Cycling around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez guide. Hiking is also a great option, with trails like the 'Avenue de la Corniche – Grosse Terre Lighthouse loop' and others detailed in the Hiking around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Many attractions are suitable for families. The Bicycle path - Pays-de-Monts national forest offers easy trails for all ages. The Grosse Terre lighthouse and Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road are great for scenic outings. The village of Sallertaine provides a charming environment, and Commequiers Castle offers a fun treasure hunt for children.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see?
Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes. You'll find extensive pine forests, such as the Pays-de-Monts national forest, and beautiful coastal areas with sandy beaches and rocky shores, exemplified by the Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities. Many enjoy the 'very nice walk in the pines and by the sea' offered by the Pays-de-Monts national forest and the 'fantastic bike path along the coast' of the Brétignolles-sur-Mer Coastal Road. The scenic views from the Grosse Terre lighthouse are also highly praised.
Are there options for gravel biking near Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez?
Yes, Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez offers excellent opportunities for gravel biking. You can find various routes, including those that take you through coastal areas and forests. Explore detailed routes and difficulty levels in the Gravel biking around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez guide.
Can I find any hidden gems or less-known spots?
While not strictly 'hidden,' the village of Sallertaine, with its artisan island and tranquil marsh surroundings, offers a charming and less bustling experience compared to the coastal areas. Its unique character makes it a delightful discovery.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (May to September) generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and enjoying the beaches. The climate is typically mild, making it pleasant for exploring the forests and coastal paths.
Are there any specific trails for hiking around the attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, you can explore the 'Avenue de la Corniche – Grosse Terre Lighthouse loop from Sion-sur-l'Océan' or the 'Impasse des Mûres – View of the Forest Pond loop from Forêt domaniale des Pays de Monts'. More options are available in the Hiking around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez guide.
Most popular routes around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez
Most popular attractions around Saint-Hilaire-De-Riez
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
