The aquarium of the Vendée
Are you planning a family holiday at Le Cabestan campsite in Vendée, France? Are you looking for other sites of interest to vary the activities in addition to those offered by the campsite? A visit to the Vendée aquarium, located about thirty kilometres from the Le Cabestan estate, is an excellent alternative.
Aquarium Overview
Located in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, the Aquarium de Vendée is recommended for marine life enthusiasts. With over 500,000 liters of salt water, this aquarium is home to an incredible variety of marine animals belonging to 500 different species. This animal park near Saint Hilaire de Riez highlights three major universes: the French and European coasts with species from the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, the Indo-Pacific zone and the tropical universe.
Here you will spot remarkable species such as sharks, sea turtles, seahorses, rays, jellyfish and a variety of exotic fish. But also, this aquarium also offers temporary exhibitions highlighting works inspired by the marine world and signed by talented artists.
Located just minutes from Les Sables d’Olonne in France, the Aquarium de Vendée is a fascinating place that allows you to discover marine life from a unique and exciting perspective.
Workshops and activities
The aquarium offers various activities, including dolphin and seal shows, as well as feeding sessions. Animations also include:
- Exhibits on specific environments such as mangroves and coral reefs
- exhibits on particular species such as sharks
- exhibitions on environmental issues related to the oceans.
In addition, thanks to the tactile workshop, children aged 3 to 12 can discover the morphology of marine animals such as spider crabs, sea urchins, starfish and oysters. A game book is offered at the beginning of the visit for an interactive and fun experience, including quizzes and riddles on the three universes of the site. To optimize the observation skills of the little ones, a treasure hunt is available in the heart of this aquarium near Saint Hilaire de Riez.
Practical information
The Vendée Aquarium, near Les Sables d’Olonne, is open all year round, from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, with a non-stop opening from 9:30 am to 7:00 pm, in summer. The visit to the aquarium lasts about 1h30 and the prices vary according to age, children under 3 years old have free access. In addition, a reduced rate is offered for an adult or a disabled child, as well as accompanying adults. Special offers such as a student fare, family packs and season tickets are also available.
For small appetites, the “L’HIPPOCAMPE” snack bar of the animal park is available offering you savory and sweet dishes as well as refreshing drinks.
From the Le Cabestan campsite, it takes about thirty minutes by car on the D38 road to reach the Vendée aquarium in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire.