The Western Loire hosts the worlds toughest sailing race. Following the excitement of the Americas Cup it is the turn of the Vendee Globe to entertain sailing enthusiasts.
Les Sables d'Olonne is a lively seaside resort with a huge beach and promenade lined with numerous shops, cafes and restaurants along with a major fishing port and leisure marina.
Many are drawn to Les Sables during the summer yet in November there is another surge of interest for the spectacular depart of arguably the greatest long distance sailing event of them all, the Globe.
It is the solo aspect combined with the non stop round the world route which includes passing the dangerous capes of America, Australia and Africa which draws the bravest and most talented sailors to the Vendee Globe and in turn attracts international interest.
The race starts on the 10th of November and it is a great opportunity to catch a glimpse of race heroes such as Francois Gabert, Aemel le Cleac'h and Alex Thomson and their sleek mono-hull sailing craft sponsored by top brands such as Hugo Boss, Manque Populaire and MACIF.
After the amazing win by the American team, Oracle, assisted by the huge talent of Sir Ben Ainslie, piping the NZ team at the post in the Americas cup the yachting world is buzzing with excitement. The Vendee Globe is sure to be equally absorbing as the participants take on the ultimate sailing challenge and it is a great excuse to visit one of the major resorts of the Western Loire.
You could stay in one of our western Loire villas to watch the grand depart of this exceptional sailing event, just ask for more information.