A circular route from Port de la Meule to Plage des Vieilles

Park at the Port de la Meule car park on the Île d’Yeu.

(S/E) Head down towards the bottom of the cove. Right from the start, look out for the yellow and red markings of the GRP® Tour de l’Île d’Yeu, which you’ll need to follow for part of the route. At the far end of the harbour, cross the café terrace to reach the steps leading up the cliff. Continue climbing until you reach the Notre-Dame de Bonne Nouvelle Chapel.

(1) Walk round the building to the left and continue along the steep coastal path towards Pointe de la Tranche.

(2) Take a short detour via the wooden footbridge to enjoy the panoramic view of the ocean before rejoining the main path to the cliff edge at Anse des Soux , where you can head down for a break on the beach and in its sheltered cove.

(3) Continue along the coastline on the signposted path to reach the picturesque Port des Vieilles, known as one of the smallest ports in France, right next to Plage des Vieilles.

(4) Carry on along the beach, then leave the seaside by turning left onto the road to begin the circular return, following the yellow markings of the Sente des Meules.

(5) At the Fork in the road, turn left and head due west through the moorland and woods, still following the yellow markings. You’ll reach the D22A, Rue de la Meule.

(6) Turn left and head down the road towards La Meule to reach the harbour car park (S/E).

Wear walking boots or trainers, but not flip-flops, as some sections are steep.
This route is not suitable for pushchairs, bicycles or scooters.

The entire stretch of coastline from Port de la Meule to Plage des Vieilles, passing by the chapel, the footbridge and Anse des Soux, is magnificent.