La Roche sur Yon by private jet

Its unique location makes it both urban and wild. Halfway between Nantes and La Rochelle, close to the sea and to Puy du Fou, La Roche-sur-Yon adapts to all your desires! Discover the capital that Napoleon brought back to life by decree in 1804! Between cultural and heritage sites, live shows, outdoor sports, hiking and cycling, and scenic walks, you won’t have time to be bored!

Set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Yon Valley, La Roche-sur-Yon first developed around its castle and in the Vieille Horloge district, where the Renaissance House dating from 1566 is a key witness to its past. But it was above all thanks to Napoleon’s decree of May 25, 1804—marking the city’s creation—that the town took on a new face, under the guidance of civil engineers: a pentagonal shape and a checkerboard layout. This functional urban plan is organized around squares, the most famous of which recalls its founder—Place Napoléon—and reflects the foundations of a new France envisioned by Napoleon, whose “Masses of Granite” form the bedrock. Most monuments from the first half of the 19th century are in the neoclassical style.

For those who love to keep moving, numerous sports and cultural events punctuate life in the city and its metro area: festivals such as Face&Si, R.POP, Pay ta tong, and Colors; the Bicentenaire and Joséphine races; the Tour de Vendée; and in 2018, the Tour de France! The La Roche-sur-Yon area also offers a wide range of outings and discoveries: walks through generous nature, a journey through time in Napoleon’s footsteps, and a playful stop at a one-of-a-kind mechanical zoo…
If you enjoy walking or cycling, the Yon Valley offers magnificent routes through unspoiled wilderness. You can take in the beauty and charm of Piquet! Don’t hesitate to rent an e-bike to ride to the Moulin de Rambourg! In addition, La Roche-sur-Yon boasts many parks right in the city center. Downstream, the Yon River flows through the city and offers lovely views of imperial architecture and green spaces in this flower-filled town: the barracks, the Roc district with its stone houses, the Pont Boileau, the Vallée Verte… The river then glides toward Rives de l’Yon, where it puts on its finest show. Carved by water through granite rock, the Vallée de Piquet offers an awe-inspiring spectacle for visitors seeking adventure.

Stop by the Moulin Papon dam. Its vast expanse of water allows watersports enthusiasts to enjoy rowing, windsurfing, or even dinghy sailing. It’s also one of locals’ favorite spots for a relaxing stroll or a workout. Heading down toward the riverbed, you’ll discover a steep valley where the water has sculpted the famous Marmites de Gargantua into the granite chaos! A unique place, full of good vibes, perfect for disconnecting from the urban side of La Roche-sur-Yon.

Animal lovers shouldn’t miss the Haras de la Vendée, a cultural site run by the Vendée Department that shares the passion for horses. In a 4.5-hectare park dedicated to the equestrian arts, meet horses in all their majesty and diversity. Discover dressage, watch training sessions, and learn about the steps that go into creating an equestrian performance. Attend horse shows, guided tours, or interactive educational workshops.

After so much activity, it’s time to refuel! The Gelencser Chocolate Museum is a must-see in the city. Founded in 1956, Maison Gelencser welcomes you to its museum with a sensory trail and other surprises. To top off this cocoa-themed outing, you can even make your own treats! A delight for young and old alike!

Fly with Jetmiles to enjoy the most complete, flexible, and competitive offering in the skies for the past 10 years.