Travel Guide Noirmoutier-En-L'île

In the north of the island, the center of Noirmoutier is full of narrow streets, historic buildings and places steeped in history. Recently awarded the "Petite Cité de Caractère" label, it's the island's nerve center, home to a large concentration of merchants. A tricky channel welcomes small fishing boats and pleasure craft. Admire the former seigniorial stone salorge, now a cultural center. On Place d'Armes, you'll find two private mansions, Hôtel Jacobsen and Hôtel Lebreton des Grapillères. They flank the château and its museum. The Hôtel Jacobsen is an architecturally remarkable residence, built in 1760. In the heart of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, you won't want to miss the castle, built in the 11th century and surrounded by its ramparts and dry moat. Next door, Saint-Philbert church. Not far away, the Banzeau district, one of the oldest on the island. Occupied in the 11th century by people in the service of the abbey, it later became home to sailors in the 17th century. Narrow streets lined with hollyhocks and adorable white houses with colorful shutters give the district a picturesque character. From the harbor quay, a 7 km-long promenade, known as the Jacobsen jetty, offers beautiful views. Alongside the jetty, you'll discover the Müllembourg nature reserve, salt marshes and wild marshes where numerous species of birds nest. Before arriving at the mythical Plage des Dames, stroll through the magnificent Bois de la Chaise with its majestic mansions. Continuing along the coast, you'll come to the charming little village of Le Vieil. At the far end of the island is the port of L'Herbaudière.