La Roche sur Yon is situated near the Atlantic coast and is the capital of the Vendée département. Today it is a busy commercial and industrial centre.

The center is dominated by an equestrian statue of the emperor, Napoléon who was the driving force behind the creation of the city.

The city has a sporting heart with 700 ha given over to an immense water feature including a swimming pool and a skating rink. Many other sporting activities are also catered for.

The surrounding countryside and small country roads are ideal for cyclists and walkers.

The coast with its long sandy beaches and the busy and fashionable resort of Les Sables d'Olonne is only 36km from La Roche-sur-Yon. It is almost mid-way between Nantes to the North and La Rochelle to the south and consequently it is an ideal base from which to explore this very attractive and historic region of France.

Things to Do

Whatever you look for from a holiday can be found in the area or within a short drive away.

There are many outdoor pursuits and sports of all kinds are catered for. The area offers excellent sea and fresh water fishing opportunities and there are three golf courses within driving distance of the town. The nearest is 10km south, at Golf de la Domangere. This championship course will test the most skillfull of player, with water featuring on 13 of the holes and with three lakes guarding the 16th green.

In addition to the many historic sites and museums to be explored there is breath-taking scenery at every turn. Plenty of local markets will occupy your shopping time and the local produce will not fail to excite your taste buds with the locally produced wines and the delicious cuisine of the region.

Places of Interest

  • Musée de la Roche - paintings and art from the 19th century are exhibited at this museum, along with more contemporary photographs and the history of La Roche sur Yon. +33 (0)2 51 47 48 35  
  • Eglise Saint Louis - this church is open to the public and offers free guided tours. + 33 (0)2 51 47 48 27
  • Visite du Théatre - the interior was restored in 2004 and the theatre is now truly a wonderful site to discover. Free guided tours available. + 33 (0)2 51 47 48 27

    • La Roche Sur Yon (Vendée) mini guide

    Guide point Details
    Location: La Roche Sur Yon is located in north west France, in the Vendée department, 40 minutes from Nantes
    Public Transport:

    By Boat / Car

    The nearest ferry port is St Malo (3.30hrs), Brittany ferries sail from Portsmouth. There is also a quicker Condor Ferry from Weymouth or Poole.

    By Air

    We are well served by the budget airlines, Ryanair, Flybe, and Easyjet all fly into La Rochelle from various UK destinations, and Ryanair fly into Nantes from Stanstead and East Midlands. Both Nantes and La Rochelle are 1 hours drive from the house.

    Public Transport in the Town

    STY bus service company available. Enquire at the kiosk situated in Place Napoléon.

    Sovetours - another bus service company located 105 Boulevard d'Angleterre.

    The train station is at Place d'Estienne d'Orves.
    Tourist information website: www.ot-roche-sur-yon.fr
    Tourist information contact email: info@ot-roche-sur-yon.fr
    Tourist information switch board number: + 33 (0)2 51 36 00 85
    Tourist information address: Rue Georges Clemenceau, 85000 La Roche Sur Yon