Haras de la Vendée : presentation and pratical information
Haras de la Vendée - A passion for the horse
Come and meet the horse, in all its majesty and diversity. Dedicated to the equestrian arts, the Vendée Stud reveals the secrets of the horse’s life thanks to fun activities and new shows. Enter into the intimacy of the bond that unites man and horse.
A passion for the horse.
Since its construction in 1846, the Haras de la Vendée has been welcoming visitors to this 4.5 hectare park in the heart of La Roche sur Yon. Established by Napoleon the 1st, this former National Stud preserves and promotes French equestrian culture. Visiting the stables, entertainments and various shows will give you an understanding of the closeness of the bonds that unite the horse and man.
The Haras de la Vendée comprises :
- Quality educational workshops and equestrian demonstrations
- A unique collection of horse-drawn vehicles dating from the 19th century
- Entertainment and shows combining history, humour and outstanding feats
Our visit aids :
- Guided tour in French or English
Our facilities
- Toilets on site
- Free parking near the site
- Shop with a large choice of books, souvenirs, games and Vendéen crafts
Recommendations and accessibility :
- Site accessible to people with reduced mobility
- Prior reservation required
Refreshments
On the site :
- Picnic areas near the Stud Farm and the possibility of picnicking on the site
- In summer, a fast food point is available from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m.
In La Roche-sur-Yon :
- La Roche sur Yon Tourist Office: 02.51.36.00.85
Practical visit information :
Opening times
Dates | Times | ||
From 06/04 to 30/04
| From Monday to Friday | 10h - 12h30 / 14h - 18h | |
Saturday and Sunday | 14h - 19h | ||
From 01/05 to 12/05 Closed on 06/05 and 07/05 | Every Day | 10h - 19h | |
From 01/07 to 31/08 | Every Day | 10h - 19h | |
Admission
- Adult (+ 26 years old) : 7 € (without summer shows) / 9 € (with summer shows)
- Youngsters (12-25 years old) and others reduced-rates (under conditions) : 5 € (without summer show) / 6 € (with summer show)
- Free entrance for children under 12 years old
Payment : Cash, CB
Location
The Haras de la Vendée is located :
- 35 minutes from les Sables d'Olonne
- 55 minutes from Saint-Jean de Monts
- 1 hour from Nantes
Coming by car :
- GPS coordinates : 46°39'50.2"N 1°25'36.9"W
- Arriving in La Roche-sur-Yon, follow the directions for "centre ville", then the directions for "Haras National". The public entrance is on Boulevard des Etats-Unis.
Map :