Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois - Top 20

Saint-Malô-Du-Bois and its surroundings offer several sites with rich history. You can visit the Mont des Alouettes: Windmills and Chapel, a significant historical site with two surviving windmills and a chapel, notable for its connection to the Vendée Wars. Another historical point of interest is the Moulin de la Sagesse, an old mill with a past tied to religious communities. While the village itself suffered significant destruction during the Vendée Wars, its architectural heritage and authentic landscapes of the Bocage Vendéen are still appreciated.

The Vallée de Poupet, situated along the Sèvre Nantaise river, is a prime spot for nature and outdoor activities directly within Saint-Malô-Du-Bois. Here, you can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. The area also provides pleasant picnic spots. For more structured outdoor adventures, you can explore various routes listed in our guides, such as Hiking around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois or Gravel biking around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois.

Yes, several attractions cater to families. The Mont des Alouettes: Windmills and Chapel is considered family-friendly, offering an interesting historical and scenic outing. Although the Boistissandeau Castle itself cannot be visited, its surrounding forest provides a pleasant area for walks. Additionally, the nearby Vallée de Poupet offers activities like canoeing and hiking suitable for families.

For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Saint-Michel-Mont-Mercure bell tower. This religious building and summit is the highest point in Vendée, and you can climb its stone staircase for a 360° view of the surrounding landscape. The Mont des Alouettes: Windmills and Chapel also offers scenic viewpoints.

Beyond Saint-Malô-Du-Bois, several major attractions are within easy reach. The internationally acclaimed Puy du Fou historical theme park is just a few kilometers away. Approximately 15 km distant is the Parc Oriental de Maulévrier, Europe's largest Japanese garden. You can also visit the 12th-century Château de Tiffauges, located about 19 km away.

Absolutely. The region around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois is excellent for hiking. You can find various trails, including those that pass by attractions like the Vallée de Poupet. For detailed routes, refer to our Hiking around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois guide, which features routes like the 'La Mallièvre – Poupet Valley loop' and 'Chain tray loop from Saint-Malô-du-Bois'.

Yes, there are several cycling opportunities. Our Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois guide offers options such as the 'Mont des Alouettes – Mount of the Larks loop'. For off-road adventures, check out the Gravel biking around Saint-Malô-Du-Bois guide, which includes routes like 'Poupet Valley – Mont des Alouettes loop'.

The Mont des Alouettes holds significant historical importance, particularly in relation to the Vendée Wars. It was a strategic location during this tumultuous period in French history. Today, it features two surviving windmills, one still operational, and a chapel inaugurated in 1968, serving as a testament to the region's past and the ingenuity of previous generations in harnessing natural power.

You can find castles in the vicinity. The Boistissandeau Castle, with its rich history, is located nearby. However, it is private property and cannot be visited directly, though its surrounding forest is accessible. Further afield, the 12th-century Château de Tiffauges is another significant historical castle within a short drive.

Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Mont des Alouettes: Windmills and Chapel is valued for its historical context and the ingenuity of the windmills. The Saint-Michel-Mont-Mercure bell tower is highly rated for its panoramic 360° views. Overall, the preserved, authentic landscapes of the Bocage Vendéen and the diverse outdoor activities available are key highlights for the komoot community.

Yes, the area features several historical mills. The Mont des Alouettes is home to two surviving windmills, one of which is still in operation. Additionally, you can discover the Moulin de la Sagesse, an old mill with a fascinating past tied to religious communities and local history.