Villeneuve-en-Retz

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Located just 20 minutes from Pornic in Loire-Atlantique, Villeneuve-en-Retz is a commune created in 2016 from the merger of Bourgneuf-en-Retz and Fresnay-en-Retz.

In an idyllic setting on the Atlantic coast, where the canals of the Marais Breton Vendéen intertwine to create a unique natural environment, it offers residents and visitors a rich and varied heritage.

It is the perfect destination for a weekend break or camping holiday, for example, for residents and holidaymakers who love nature, history and local gastronomy.

Presentation

A preserved natural area

Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and green plains, Villeneuve-en-Retz boasts an exceptionally rich natural heritage. With its dunes, marshes and hedgerows, this town offers a true immersion in the heart of unspoilt landscapes.

The Dune du Collet, with its fine sand bordering the ocean, invites contemplation and relaxation, while the vast expanses of the Breton marsh feature wet meadows, winding canals and salt marshes, providing a refuge for remarkable wildlife.

Birdwatchers can observe a multitude of birds, including the discreet little egret, the elegant avocet and the synchronised flights of wading birds on the tidal flats. A bike ride through the surrounding countryside allows you to discover these landscapes at your own pace, following one of seven marked routes. At every turn, birdsong, the crunch of sand under your wheels and the salty scent of the sea air and maritime pines awaken the senses. The tides set the rhythm of life in this unique ecosystem.

Whether on footpaths or cycle paths, Villeneuve-en-Retz offers an authentic experience where nature reveals itself in all its diversity. Each excursion is an invitation to discover the natural riches of this corner of the Loire-Atlantique, in a peaceful, rejuvenating setting that is perfect for relaxation...

Salt and salt marshes: ancestral expertise

Villeneuve-en-Retz bears the mark of the salt trade, which has shaped its landscape and history since the 12th century.

The port of Le Collet, exporter of salt throughout Europe

The birthplace of the former Bay of Brittany, the town bears the legacy of a past where the salt trade flourished long before the salt marshes of Guérande and Noirmoutier. In fact, as early as the Middle Ages, the retreat of the ocean led to the formation of a small island in the middle of the marsh: the port of Le Collet was born. Today, this small port is located between Les Moutiers-en-Retz and Villeneuve-en-Retz, in the heart of the Lyarne marsh.
Le Collet was a major exporter of salt produced in the coastal salt marshes, particularly to Scandinavian and Eastern European countries.

Essential for preserving food supplies, salt was as important a commodity then as oil is today !

Find out more about the history of the port of Le Collet

The salt workers tell you about their trade

Even today, the salt marshes reveal a landscape sparkling in the sun, where the sea-spray-laden air leaves a slight salty taste on the lips. The sauniers, the local name for salt workers, perpetuate an ancestral know-how, offering a sensory immersion into the heart of the region's maritime history.

In summer, between Les Moutiers and Villeneuve, Mano welcomes you to the marshes to explain the secrets of the trade : how and why does water circulate in the channels ? How is salt formed ? What is the difference between coarse salt and fleur de sel? How is it harvested ? Did you know that the Gauls were already producing salt before the salt marshes existed ?
If you are quiet enough, you may spot some of the marsh birds, including the elegant avocet...

Discover the salt marshes of Villeneuve-en-Retz

Activities for all tastes

In Villeneuve-en-Retz, authentic discoveries and local delights await you.

Gourmet tours

Three local farms open their doors to curious visitors.

La Ferme du Marais Champs is known for the quality of its meat and dairy products.
La Ferme du Fresne is renowned for its aromatic herbs, homemade products and educational workshops.
Les Poulettes du Marais raises chickens and offers an escape game and fun activities: butter making, photo rally, meeting the animals, and more.

Do you enjoy wine tasting and discovering local grape varieties ? Then a visit to winemaker Vincent Hérissé at Moulin de la Touche is a must!

Finally, the weekend is an opportunity to stroll through the local produce markets to taste cheeses, buy oysters and mussels, fresh fish, and more.

Cultural and artisanal discoveries

How is soap made ? Don't miss a visit to Marcel's soap factory, where artisanal soaps and local scents awaken the senses.
Craft lovers will also be charmed by the pottery workshop ‘Du sable dans ma valise’ (Sand in my suitcase), which combines creativity and expertise.
Finally, to better understand the history and identity of the region, a visit to the Musée du Pays de Retz is a must. The woody scent of antique objects and the rough texture of tools from yesteryear immerse visitors in the life of times gone by. The visit is enriching for young and old alike, with numerous activities organised throughout the year (wooden games, medieval weapons, exhibitions, etc.).

Events not to be missed

The Spring Art Fair celebrates local creativity, while European Museum Night offers fascinating night-time tours.
In summer, Starry Night delights astronomy enthusiasts.
Summer showcases rural heritage with the Journée du Patrimoine de Pays et des Moulins (Countryside and Mills Heritage Day). A wonderful invitation to combine discovery, culture and wonder.

See the Villeneuve-en-Retz calendar of events

The team's favourites

Marie, a holiday advisor at Destination Pornic, is passionate about Villeneuve-en-Retz.
She particularly enjoys walks in the Lyarne marshes, where the serenity of the surroundings and the changing light offer unique moments. She invites you to discover these enchanting landscapes during a morning walk, camera in hand.

The pottery workshop Du sable dans ma valise : meet Frédérique, a passionate artist !

this is an opportunity to find unique and original pieces for your interior decoration: vases, cups, plates, etc.
to support craftsmanship and preserve traditional techniques,
it's a chance to chat with a local artist,
and take part in workshops : discover the basic techniques and make your own piece! You can take it home with you or have it sent to you by post when you return from your holiday.

Find out more

Villeneuve-en-Retz