Close to La Tranche-sur-Mer and the sweeping beaches of the Vendée coastline, La Cigogne is a pretty French Farmhouse full of character and features a gorgeous swimming pool within its walled garden.

Just on the edge of a little village, this inviting holiday home has been newly renovated yet still exudes an immense amount of charm. Steeped in tradition, step into the light and airy lounge with exposed stone walls and flagstone flooring, then wander through to the exquisitely tiled kitchen, fitted out with high-end appliances of course – this really is the best of old meets new.

There are four double bedrooms, one with an en suite shower room, as well as a beautiful family bathroom with a large, contemporary walk-in shower and romantic freestanding bath. There’s an air of delightful simplicity across the bedrooms with old-fashioned furnishings and such pretty décor, so typically French in style.

A new swimming pool with Roman steps awaits and the south-facing garden is the perfect spot for an evening glass of wine on warm summer evenings, atmospherically lit up at night. Leave the blue-shuttered farmhouse behind and wander into the village for an early evening aperitif at the local bar-tabac before returning to your patio for al-fresco dining by the barbecue.

There is also a supermarket within walking distance (or a short drive) whilst the small town of Angles, around 2km away, offers restaurants, shops and a twice-weekly summer market. Around ten minutes in the car is the bustling and charming seaside resort of La Tranche-sur-Mer, loved by families and watersport enthusiasts alike. Along this part of the coastline there are many brilliant restaurants and markets showcasing the best Vendée specialities.

Discover other beaches of the Atlantic coast, some backed by pine forest, others with fantastic surfing opportunities or hop on a seasonal ferry across to Île de Ré, a wonderful island known for its coastline, old villages, salt marshes and cycling trails. Closer to home, set off on your bike to explore the surrounding nature reserve, looking out for rare birds, or explore the enchanting landscapes of the Marais Poitevin by canoe or kayak.

Then there’s go-karting, a much-loved waterpark and the brilliant Château des Aventuriers within easy reach, not to mention the famous Puy du Fou, one of France’s largest theme parks, just over an hour away. La Cigogne really does enjoy an amazing location where you can experience the authenticity of the Vendée alongside its many beaches and popular attractions. 

On the edge of a small traditional village and only a 10-minute drive from the sweeping Atlantic beaches of La Tranche-sur-Mer, La Cigogne offers charm and authenticity in the Vendée department of western France.

Potter into the local village where there is a Bar-Tabac/Épicerie, open mornings and late afternoons, perfect for a coffee or glass of wine amongst the locals before you pick up your bread or other simple groceries, then admire the 15th century tower just outside the village. The village is close to a nature reserve with a great variety of birds and the surrounding lanes are brilliant for cycling.

A supermarket is a little further on foot (or a 1.2km drive from La Cigogne) close to the centre of the typical small town of Angles (2km), home to a handful of shops, restaurants and a twice-weekly market in July and August.

It’s fantastic being just a 10-minute drive from La Tranche-sur-Mer (9.5km), a ‘Famille-Plus’ designated seaside resort with blue-flag beaches and a great range of water-based activities from pedal boats, paddle boards and surfing in the sea to sailing on the resort’s lake, Le Circle Nautique Tranchais.

Other beaches along the Vendée coastline include the pine-backed Plage de Boisvinet, loved by surfers, family-friendly Plage des Conches and Plage de la Terrière, all within a 10 to 15-minute drive. Look out for summer festivities and the twice-weekly market in Longeville-sur-Mer (10km) and take time to discover the beautiful scenery of the Marais Poitevin, an absolute paradise for nature lovers.

Boat departs La Tranche-sur-Mer to Île de Ré, a wonderful island with charming villages, stunning beaches, endless salt marshes, summer watersports and superb cycling opportunities. Enjoy lunch in the historic harbour town of Saint-Martin-de-Re, then hire bikes to explore the incredible landscapes.

Adrenaline-seeking guests will love the go-karting track just a 5-minute drive away (check opening dates/times in advance) whilst water-lovers should spend the day at the much-loved O'Gliss Water Park (7km) which usually opens late June to early September. Le Château des Aventuriers (14km) is another great day out for children (and grown-ups) of all ages whilst further afield is Puy du Fou (88km), one of France’s most famous theme parks.

Accommodation