Experience Jaunay lake

La Vendée is known for its beautiful sandy beaches. But these are not its only treasures.
The region is full of beautiful spots. Nature has so much to offer here.
Let us share one of our favourite spots with you.
If you have chosen to take a holiday at Le Petit Paris, it is to relax, but also to take the time to discover the treasures of the region.

La Vendée is home to incredible plants and wildlife, pastures and a rich heritage. Take a break from the coast and the crowds of tourists.
Head to the Lac du Jaunay and its calm vibes, impossible to find on the beaches in high season.
It takes about 30 minutes by car to get there from Le Petit Paris.
The lake is so vast (114 hectares), that it borders several towns in La Vendée: Saint-Julien-des-Landes, La Chapelle-Hermier, LAiguillon-sur-vie and La Chaize-Giraud.
On site, a free parking lot allows you direct access to the lake.

It is the ideal place for a family outing. The activities are fun and diverse…

We advise you to go well prepared to get the most our of your day :

a pair of sneakers
sunscreen
a hat
a tasty picnic
a bottle of water
comfortable clothes

Good to know:

Even if the lake is large and suitable for swimming, do not bring a bathing suit. The Lac du Jaunay is a drinking water reserve, so swimming is strictly forbidden (as are motorized vehicles).

Start the day with a 1 hour long walk. This 4 km circuit will allow you to get close to nature and to walk along the banks of the Jaunay . Be attentive, look closely, you may see wild animals in their natural habitat.

4 km circuit:

the departure point is in La Chapelle-Hermier, follow the Jaunay reservoir until the Jaunay lake bridge. From this bridge, admire the 360° view of the lake, water as far as the eye can see…
then leave the banks, follow the path (markers show you the way)
continue your way to the Chiron mill. Climb to the platform for a breathtaking view of the lake and its surroundings.
return to your starting point to complete the loop.

to discover more trails, pay a visit to the tourist office of the Pays des Achards. They will provide you with a guidebook with 26 marked trails, accessible by foot or by bike.
You can even combine your walk with a game of Geocaching (the lake shore is full of hiding spots). The tourist office proposes 4 geocaching circuits on the Jaunay lake.

Picnic on the shores of Lake Jaunay

After your walk, you will have built up a good appetite.
In the picnic area the “Pré“, you will find many tables to set down your tablecloth and have a seat.
Take advantage of the shade and coolness of the oak trees to regain your strength.
The area is equipped with public toilets.
Take time to breathe, relax and enjoy the tranquility.
Your children will have a ball on the playground.

In the afternoon, always in the middle of nature…

A few meters away from the picnic area, rent a boat “Canoe du Jaunay”.
This family activity will delight your children.
Paddle to the rhythm of the lake.

“Canoës du Jaunay” proposes rentals for two-seater canoes or pedal boats for 2, 3, 4 and 6 people. Choose the boat that suits you and set out to explore the lake.

Good to know: A Happy Hour formula allows you to take advantage of a 50% discount from 10am to 12pm from Monday to Friday all summer long!

After a stroll along the lake, finish the afternoon with an ice cream for the whole family.
Enjoy one last moment of this beautiful, natural spot.