1- Be an ecotourist
Appreciate the beauty of nature while minimising its environmental impact: it's possible when you're an informed ecotourist! Discovering nature in a respectful way is usually accompanied by an introduction to a completely different culture. Far from being an obligation, ecotourism is a way of life... and a state of mind! What if you adopted it, too, in Les Sables d'Olonne?
2- Thou shalt adopt the right gestures
Whether you're an amateur or a true expert in ecotourism, we'd like to remind you of the good habits to adopt:
- Protect the environment by touching it with your eyes (leave that flower where it is!).
- Take the time to discover the know-how of our destination.
- Pick up your rubbish when out and about.
- Favour soft mobility and public transport.
- Treat yourself to good local produce.
- Sort your waste (yes, even on holiday!).
- Respect your holiday destination as if you were at home.
- Use natural resources (water and electricity) wisely.
- Favour products with as little packaging as possible.
- Stay on the beaten track.
Slow tourism is easy, isn't it?
3- Save water
In Les Sables d'Olonne, life follows the course of the water. On the beach or near the harbour, we like to cool off in the iodised waters of the Atlantic Ocean, don't you? To keep our environmental project afloat, here are a few ideas for saving water:
- Use dual-flush toilets to avoid wasting water.
- Avoid bathing and use showers instead, which are much more economical.
- Use a glass to rinse your mouth when brushing your teeth.
- Use the dishwasher instead of washing up by hand (and don't rinse it first!).
- Use the water from cleaning vegetables to water plants.
Once you've got the hang of these habits, they'll stay with you for life!
4- Limit your electricity consumption
Les Sables d'Olonne shines on the Côte de Lumière: as if to remind us daily that it's better to think about switching it off! Here, as everywhere else, travellers are encouraged to reduce their electricity consumption. We've come up with some ideas to help you do just that during your holiday in the heart of our destination:
- Turn off lights when you leave a room.
- Favour natural light by opening the shutters.
- Switch off electrical appliances rather than leaving them on standby.
- Ventilate for just 5 minutes to renew the air in a room.
Do you see things more clearly?
5- Take the time
Feel the sea spray on your skin, enjoy having your hair blow in the wind during a bike ride... Taking your time in Les Sables d'Olonne means indulging in a whole range of unique sensations on the Vendée coast! On one of the most beautiful bays in the world, put down your towel to relax and unwind, or slip on your hiking boots on our signposted trails. Sport or relaxation, all that's left for you to do is choose the slow tourism you like in Les Sables d'Olonne!
6- Get around on foot or by bike
To reduce your carbon footprint and get plenty of exercise, take up the challenge of getting around (almost) exclusively by bike or on foot! It's also an opportunity to take on new routes, like the famous Vélodyssée, which crosses Brittany and runs 1,300 kilometres along the Atlantic coast to the Basque coast. Or perhaps you'd prefer to embark on a wine tour along the Route des Vins de Vendée? The choice is yours!
7- Rejuvenate by the water
What could be more rejuvenating than water-based activities on holiday? In Les Sables d'Olonne, enjoy the benefits of the sea... and try out some new challenges! Surfing, coastal sailing, diving or parasailing, there's something for everyone in Les Sables d'Olonne. Ready to take to the open seas with all our 100% slow tourism activities?
8- Enjoy nature
There's only one step from the sea to Mother Nature! In Les Sables d'Olonne, young and old alike enjoy exploring our natural landscapes, from the Auzance and Vertonne valleys on Olonne island to the Sauveterre dunes. It's the promise of a real family adventure... And an eco-responsible one, of course!
9- Share your experiences
Slow tourism also means taking the time to immerse yourself in a culture and ancestral know-how. Make the most of your holiday in Les Sables d'Olonne to enjoy a unique experience thanks to our passionate tourist guides. From the La Chaume district to an original virtual tour, not forgetting contemplating the winter wildlife, there's something for everyone in Les Sables d'Olonne... And every season!
10- Thou shalt eat local produce
Paying attention to what you put on your plate: that's also what slow tourism is all about! For a healthy mind in a healthy body during your trip, remember to eat the tasty specialities of our local producers and cooks. Whether you're strolling through the markets, sitting on a café terrace or enjoying a meal in one of our restaurants, get to know the delicious produce of our region... produced in a sustainable and responsible way! Would you like another slice of ecotourism?