The beautiful island in Europe that's like a 'mini Majorca' but without the tourists
Fancy a break? Perhaps you'll consider travelling to a small island located just off the west coast of France
Île d'Yeu, a small continental island off the coast of Pays de Loire, has been captivating visitors for centuries.
This enchanting island in Europe, just 10km long and home to 5,000 residents, is a beacon of untamed beauty, often compared to a “mini Majorca” but without the overwhelming crowds of tourists.
Renowned for its rugged unspoilt coastline, reminiscent of the Celtic landscapes of Scotland, and its rich cultural heritage dating back to prehistoric times, Île d'Yeu offers an unique and tranquil atmosphere like no other.
The island is a part of the private association of the Islands of Ponant (AIP), which includes 15 inhabited islands in France’s Atlantic coast and Channels.
The association aims to promote economic, cultural and tourist development while ensuring “the maintenance of territories propitious to active and attractive island communities", according to Île d’Yeu Tourism Office.
Located 17km from the coast, this pretty little island can be reached from Fromentine, Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie or from Noirmoutier.
To reach Île d'Yeu, travel options include ferries (with or without your vehicle) or air travel via helicopter or plane. The Fromentine—Port-Joinville ferry operates all year long, while additional ferries from Saint Gilles Croix de Vie (April to September), and Barbâtre, Noirmoutier (July and August) are available during the summer.
Most visits begin in Port-Joinville on the north coast of the island, since that is the arrival point for ferries. Upon disembarking, you will be greeted by an idyllic marina filled with fishing boats and traditional whitewashed houses.
You will also not be able to miss the colourful stalls at the centre of the island. With a variety of eateries that cater to all, this culinary hotspot offers traditional delicacies and locals’ favourite dishes.
A few to name include the classic dish Patagos, a fine shellfish served in a rich creamy parsley and garlic sauce. While “tarte aux pruneaux”, a sweet prune tart once known as “the wedding tart”, is a traditional dessert found all throughout the island. However, no wedding invitations are needed to sample this specialty dish.
Île d’Yeu offers plenty of activities. Enjoy a pleasant stroll by the sea, on the beach, or along one the numerous cross-country trails.
Visit the Le Vieux Château of Île d’Yeu, a 14th century fortress built at the start of the Hundred Years War. The guided tour provides stunning views and a glimpse into the island’s preserved history, and is highly praised by reviewers on Tripadvisor.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s perfectly preserved natural environment, which boasts more than 760 wild plant species and spectacular flowering displays all year round.
The island’s coastal areas, wetlands, and groves are home to nearly 290 species of birds and if you time your trip correctly, you may even spot the penguins on the coast in August.
Île d’Yeu also features thirty beaches, offering a superb selection of small coves and wide sandy stretches.
The western and southern parts of the island are ideal for exploring small coves and coastal creeks, with Plage des Soux and the Anse des Fontaines bay being particularly popular.
The long sandy beaches of the northeastern coast, between the salt marshes and Ker Châlon, are perfect for nature lovers and swimmers.
These beaches are much safer for swimming and watersports due to its shallow waters, lack of currents, and warmer sea temperatures.
If this enchanting island hasn’t convinced you to pack your suitcases already, then nothing will!
