Admit it, you could spend hours relaxing on the private terrace of your fully equipped mobile home or in the heated indoor pool of this 4-star campsite in Vendée. Make the most of your exceptional waterfront holiday in Vendée to visit the region's capital: La Roche-sur-Yon.

Where is La Roche-sur-Yon?

The town of La Roche-sur-Yon, located in the heart of Vendée’s countryside, lies 35 km northeast of the Le Paradis campsite (a 35-minute drive), 30 km from the Atlantic Ocean, 68 km from Nantes, the capital of Pays de la Loire, and close to Essarts en Bocage.

La Roche-sur-Yon, a city shaped by Napoleon

Did you know that La Roche-sur-Yon was once called Napoleon-Vendée during the Second Empire? This is because the city owes its significant development to the Corsican-born emperor, following a decree on May 25, 1804. The Vendée prefecture was transformed into a pentagonal urban plan with a grid layout, becoming a prime example of neoclassical urban design.
The Renaissance House, built in 1566, is one of the few remaining structures from before this transformation, a time when the castle and old clock tower were the heart of the medieval city. Visitors cannot escape reminders of Napoleon’s influence, as the vast esplanade, Place Napoléon, serves as a testament to his vision. Today, Place Nap’ impresses with its large dimensions, unique layout, and a fascinating attraction for all ages: its incredible mechanical bestiary.
Combine the Animals of the Square with the peaceful Yon Valley, a national stud farm, and several remarkable museums, and you have one of the must-see destinations in the Pays de la Loire region and northwestern France. La Roche-sur-Yon is vibrant year-round, thanks to its bars, restaurants, shopping streets, and festivals like La Folle Journée, Colors, R.Pop, and the International Film Festival.

What to do in La Roche-sur-Yon?

Fancy walking in the footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte? Here’s a focus on the 10 must-visit places in La Roche-sur-Yon:

  • Haras de la Vendée: This renowned national stud farm can host 200 stallions in a wooded estate spanning 2.5 hectares. Guided tours reveal the history and operations of the stud farm.
  • Saint-Louis Church: Built in the early 19th century, it is the largest religious monument in the Vendée region. Its neoclassical architecture stands out, located right in the city center on Place Napoléon.
  • La Roche-sur-Yon Museum: Labeled a "Museum of France," this contemporary art museum, inaugurated in 1847, houses nearly 200 paintings from the 17th to the 20th century, about 40 sculptures, and around 3,000 graphic art pieces.
  • Place Napoléon: Covering 28,000 m², it is one of the largest public squares in France. Often redesigned, it features astonishing mechanical animals, the Animaux de la Place, which delight children.
  • The Yon Valley: From Piquet to Moulin-Papon Lake via Dompierre-sur-Yon, the Yon Valley is one of the green lungs of Vendée’s bocage. This 40-hectare haven of greenery is perfect for a walk among the trees or a family picnic by the water.
  • Historial de la Vendée: Located in the commune of Lucs-sur-Boulogne, this museum highlights key episodes in Vendée’s history in an 8,000 m² space. Its futuristic architecture blends concrete, glass, and steel.
  • Jardin des Compagnons: A peaceful and green corner in the heart of La Roche-sur-Yon, perfect for recharging between visits. Nestled among old stone houses, it retains traces of its past, including a bread oven and a well.
  • Renaissance House: This 16th-century residence overlooking Place de la Vieille Horloge now hosts a free museum tracing the history of La Roche-sur-Yon from the medieval era.
  • Gelencser Chocolate Museum: Indulge your taste buds in this chocolate shop that fascinates cocoa lovers, both young and old. The visit concludes with an observation of the chocolate-making process and, of course, a tasting.
  • Jardins du Loriot: This oriental floral park a few kilometers from La Roche-sur-Yon offers an exotic escape and a connection to nature, featuring playful trails that children will enjoy.

Restaurants in La Roche-sur-Yon

Need to recharge before continuing your stroll around Place Napoléon? Here’s an overview of the 5 best restaurants in La Roche-sur-Yon:

  • Bistro Yonnais: Close to the Vendée prefecture and François Mitterrand Garden, Bistro Yonnais is a great spot for a meal in the city center between visits. Tartare, terrine, and burgers are among the specialties. Price: From €26 per menu.
  • La Chaumière: True to its name, this restaurant is set in a large thatched cottage in a peaceful setting south of La Roche-sur-Yon (Belle Place). It stands out for its creative cuisine and lush surroundings. Price: Between €14.50 and €28.50.
  • Le Karo: A gourmet restaurant in the heart of the city, perfect for discerning palates, where dish presentation is key. Price: Between €18.50 and €35.50.
  • Le Pas Sage: Located on the exceptional Place Napoléon, Le Pas Sage offers a unique dining experience. How about scallops with risotto followed by homemade chocolate mousse? Price: Between €13 and €36.
  • Brasserie Le Clem’: One of the best spots in La Roche-sur-Yon’s historic center for enjoying a burger and fries in a cozy atmosphere. Price: Between €16.90 and €29.

 

5 Reasons to Visit La Roche-sur-Yon

  • A Napoleonic town created just 200 years ago, embodying the modern French city.
  • A unique central square, Place Napoléon, with its fountains and famous Animaux de la Place that delight children.
  • A protected environment and stunning landscapes surrounding the city, with numerous hiking and mountain biking trails.
  • An interactive city to explore with family through a mobile app (Baludik) offering 5 itineraries.
  • Fairs and markets (Halles, Garenne, Jaulnières) to meet local producers, buy regional products, and soak up the vibrant Yonnaise atmosphere.