The best gravel rides around Dompierre-Sur-Yon

Neoclassical style church, commissioned by Napoleon, whose construction lasted from 1813 to 1829.

Beautiful view of the Yon below.

see this landscape, the dry salt beautiful place full of good vibes

The Gueffard Mill on Île d'Olonne is an old windmill dating back to at least the 17th century, mentioned in 1656 under the name "moulin du Bourg". It was a common mill belonging to the lord of the Court of Île d'Olonne, who earned an income from its operation. This mill operated until 1932, with a diameter of 5.4 meters and a height of over 7 meters, equipped with a system allowing its sails to be oriented according to the wind. After years of abandonment, it was purchased by the municipality in 2002, and an association began its restoration in 2016, including the consolidation of the foundations and the creation of a belvedere. The mill is an important historical symbol of the local heritage of Île d'Olonne.

La Roche-sur-Yon station was opened in 1866 under the name "Napoléon-Vendée" by the Compagnie des chemins de fer de la Vendée. It was created when the line linking Nantes to La Rochelle and Tours opened, representing a major challenge in opening up the city and the growth of local commerce. Its establishment initially sparked local debates and required the mayor to intervene with Napoleon III to defend the city's interests. Located outside the main urban center for topographical reasons, the station encouraged the creation of a new district of hotels and shops linked to the railway. Over time, it has become an important regional railway hub, today served by several passenger and freight lines.

The Rambourg mill, located in Nesmy near La Roche-sur-Yon, is a rare early 20th-century watermill still equipped with its original mechanisms. It ceased its milling activity in 1981 and has since been restored and opened to the public for guided tours during the summer, from July 1 to August 31, every day except Saturday. The interior of the mill can only be seen during these guided tours, allowing visitors to understand the traditional workings of the mill. The site also offers a bucolic setting conducive to relaxation, with a ford, picnic area, and walks along the banks of the Yon. The mill participates in Heritage Days with specific activities.

On Place Napoléon in La Roche-sur-Yon, thirteen mechanical animals made of wood and steel, designed by François Delarozière and the La Machine company, populate the pools and are free for the public to handle. This mechanical zoo brings together crocodiles, hippopotamuses, dromedaries, sacred ibises, otter, owls, flamingos, frogs, and Nile perches. Each animal has a control station that allows different parts of its body to be activated (wings, mouth, legs, etc.). Visitors, young and old, can bring these works to life using hydraulic, pneumatic, or mechanical systems. The animals spit water, move, or interact according to the wishes of passersby. The activity is designed to be interactive, fun, and educational, supervised by "veterinarians" to guide visitors. The animals are inspired by a bestiary that is half-Egyptian and half-Vendean, paying homage to local history and biodiversity.

Magnificent, both in the high and low marshes. And you, salt workers, at work, the birds...