Hotels in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie

Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie: Vendée Sardine Port on the Atlantic

Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie sits at the mouth of the Vie river on the Vendée coast, roughly 50 km southwest of La Roche-sur-Yon. Two historic fishing villages — Saint-Gilles and Croix-de-Vie — merged in 1967 to form a single commune of around 8,000 residents. The port remains one of France's leading sardine-fishing harbours, landing catches that supply canneries operating in the town since the 19th century. The Grande Plage stretches north of the harbour, backed by pine-lined dunes, while the Corniche promenade links it to quieter coves toward Saint-Hilaire-de-Riez.

Where to Stay

Most hotels and rental apartments concentrate along the beachfront and in the old Croix-de-Vie quarter near the fish market. Families favour properties within walking distance of the Plage des Demoiselles. The town draws surfers, cyclists on the Vélo Francette long-distance route, and visitors arriving for the July sardine festival.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: TGV to Nantes (2h from Paris), then 1h20 by regional bus or car to Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
• Best season: July–August for beach weather; May–June for quieter streets and open harbour.
• Local market: Wednesday and Saturday mornings on the Croix-de-Vie quayside.
• Currency: Euro (EUR); card accepted widely.