Lighthouses
Benevolent works of art, symbols of safety at sea, lighthouses fascinate with their monumental edifice. Standing tall in the face of all adversity, they remain dignified in the spray they cause on stormy days. Sentinels of the seas warning of danger, six of them guide ships in Les Sables d'Olonne.
People of the sea
For a long time, the quays of the port of Les Sables d'Olonne were the scene of a colourful maritime life. In the days when sardine and tuna fishing set the pace in the port, the return of the boats was a major event: fishermen, fish merchants and bathers on holiday all came to watch the fish being unloaded. Since 1962, fish have been unloaded every day at the tidal centre.
The maritime past
In Les Sables d'Olonne, the waves tell the story of centuries of adventure and discovery! Since the 15th century, under the reign of Louis XI, the fishing port has emerged as a bastion of maritime activity, vibrating to the rhythm of trade and flourishing fishing. From the 16th century whale fishery to the heyday of cod fishing on the banks of Newfoundland, each era has left its mark on the tumultuous waters. Today, this port, elected home of the Vendée Globe, celebrates the legacy of the intrepid sailors and legendary boats that have plied its waters.
Canneries
In the 19th century, tuna and sardines were the pride of the canning factories, also known as confectionery factories, which occupied both sides of the channel, while shipbuilding took over the quays of La Cabaude, the future commercial port. Since the twentieth century, the port's heritage has undergone constant development, with the creation of Port Olona and future projects around the Vendée Globe, the rallying cry of all sailors.
The channel
The channel, around 2 km long, is an emblematic feature that separates the town of Les Sables d'Olonne into 2, and is particularly well known to sailing enthusiasts and spectators at the Vendée Globe. It's much more than just a waterway, it's an essential passageway to the town's various ports: the fishing port, the commercial port and the Port Olona marina.
The channel is a historic and strategic place, where you can watch the comings and goings of boats, fishermen, yachtsmen and spectators of nautical events such as the Vendée Globe, the Golden Globe Race ....
