Life in Vendée
Stories, guides, and tips about buying a mobile home and living the French dream on the Atlantic coast. Written for British and Irish buyers considering a move to France.
10 Things to See and Do in Vendée
From epic Atlantic beaches and historic islands to theme parks, medieval towns, and the best seafood you'll ever eat — Vendée has something for everyone.
Driving in France: The Essential Guide to Rules, Kit, and Fines
French roads are excellent but the Code de la Route has strict rules that catch out foreign drivers. From mandatory safety kit to speed limits that drop in the rain — here is everything you need to know before you turn the key.
Moving to France as a Non-EU Immigrant: What You Need to Know
A practical step-by-step guide for British, American, Australian and other non-EU nationals looking to make the move to France — visas, residency, banking, and everything in between.
The Best Local Markets in the Vendée
A practical guide to the finest weekly markets near Apremont — from the coastal sardine stalls of Saint-Gilles to Brétignolles' summer night market, plus the regional specialities worth seeking out.
How to Convert Your VLS-TS Visa into a French Residence Permit
Moving to France on a VLS-TS visa is just the first step. Here is a practical, step-by-step guide to converting it into a Carte de Séjour before your first year is up — including the documents you need, the deadlines to hit, and how to navigate the ANEF portal.
Puy du Fou: An In-Depth Review of the Vendée's Most Spectacular Theme Park
Regularly voted the world's best theme park, Puy du Fou is unlike anything you've ever experienced. No roller coasters, no queues — just breathtaking live spectacles that bring French history to life. Here's everything you need to know before you visit from Apremont.
Navigating the Schengen 90-Day Rule: A Guide for Brits
Brexit changed the rules for British visitors to Europe. Here's a clear breakdown of the 90/180-day rule, how the rolling lookback calculation works, the new EES and ETIAS digital systems, and what happens if you overstay.
Navigating French Healthcare: How to Use Your UK GHIC in France
Planning a holiday in France? Your UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives you access to state healthcare on the same terms as a French citizen. Here is exactly how it works, what it covers, and how to claim a reimbursement.
Understanding the French Apéritif
Before every meal worth eating in France, there is the apéritif. More than a drink, it is a ritual — a moment of unhurried conversation that marks the transition from the day's work to the evening's pleasure. Here is everything you need to know to embrace it.
Discovering Noirmoutier: The Pearl of Vendée
Just off the Atlantic coast lies the Île de Noirmoutier — an island of breathtaking landscapes, medieval heritage, legendary potatoes, and 80 km of cycling paths. Here is everything you need to know before you visit.
Navigating the French Healthcare System as a Tourist
Getting sick abroad is stressful, but France has a world-class healthcare system. Here is exactly what to do — from the local pharmacy to emergencies — if you need medical attention while holidaying in the Vendée.
Securing Your Mobile Home in France with Macif
A guide to campsite insurance requirements and Macif’s tailored mobile home cover — from baseline Civil Liability to premium Confort protection for fixtures, fittings, and outdoor installations.
How to Live in Vendée: A Complete Guide for Expats
Discover what life is really like in the Vendée department of western France — from the climate and lifestyle to local markets, healthcare, and the warm community that awaits you.
Emigrating Solo: Why Apremont in the Vendée is the Perfect Place to Start Your Next Chapter
If you are an older single person or retiree considering a move to France, discover why the charming village of Apremont in the Vendée offers the perfect balance of community, peace, and affordability — and why a pre-owned mobile home could be your smartest first step.
The Unfortunate History of the Vendée: A Region Scarred by Civil War
Beneath the Vendée’s tranquil landscapes and historic châteaux lies one of the most violent chapters of the French Revolution — the War in the Vendée (1793–1796). Understanding this history deepens your connection to the land and the resilient spirit of its people.
The Everest of the Seas: An Introduction to the Vendée Globe
For those of us living in the Pays de la Loire, the Vendée Globe is more than a race — it is a cultural touchstone. Every four years, Les Sables-d’Olonne becomes the epicentre of the most daunting challenge in professional sailing: a solo, non-stop, unassisted voyage around the world.
Discovering Les Sables-d’Olonne: The Pearl of the Côte de Lumière
As the jewel of the Côte de Lumière, Les Sables-d’Olonne is far more than just a summer destination — it is a town defined by deep maritime heritage, the legendary Vendée Globe, and an infectious adventurous spirit. Here is your guide to a perfect day out.
Hidden Gems: The Best Scenic Drives Around Apremont
While many visitors flock to the Atlantic coast, the real magic of the Vendée lies just inland. Apremont is perfectly positioned as a gateway to the authentic Bocage Vendéen — rolling hills, ancient river valleys, and hidden lakes that feel a world away from the busy seaside resorts.
The Ultimate Dual-Nation Road Trip: Using Vendée as a Base to Explore France and Spain
Positioned perfectly on the Western French coast, Vendée serves as an exceptional launching pad for unforgettable cross-border adventures. Here is how to plan the ultimate dual-nation road trip combining the rich heritage of France with the vibrant culture of Northern Spain.
Music and Concert Venues Near Apremont, Vendée
From a rock festival at a medieval château to a coastal bar with live bands, here are the best music and concert venues within easy reach of Apremont in the Vendée.
Life on the Campsite: What to Expect
Owning a mobile home on a campsite is a lifestyle, not just a property purchase. Here's what day-to-day life looks like at our campsite near Maché, Vendée.