We are within an easy drive of two of the top theme park destinations in France , Futuroscope at Poitiers,which has a large number of interactive games,rides and attractions, and  Puy du Fou which has a 'Hollywood style' outdoor gladiator and viking shows, falconry exhibitions and a spectacular outdoor 'sound & light' show in the evening.

The Marais Poitevin (Venise Verte),is a fascinating area of meadows and marshlands, criss-crossed by canals and rivers where you can hire a boat and spend the day meandering through the waterways. Coulon is an excellent starting point, and from here you can also take a ride on the Pibalou miniature train.

At the seaward edge of the Marais, there are opportunities to go birdwatching and there are beautiful beaches at the seaside resorts of Les Sables-d'Olonne and La Tranche.

South of Chalans, strong muscles will be needed to pedal the Velo-Rail trucks along the disused tracks - 2 to pedal and 2 can relax as passengers!

For steam railway enthusiasts, there is also the Chemin de Fer de la Vendee at Mortagne sur Sevres 10km from Cholet,a 22km stretch of track, complete with dining car and a small museum.

As you would expect in France, there are a number of opportunities for cycling - the Tourist Offices often have informative leaflets about routes.There is a cycleway running the length of the Vendee coast and 60miles of cycle tracks on the Ile de Re (La Rochelle) - with a Velo-Bus to come back on if required!

Also very popular is hiring bikes to explore the Marais Poitevin - excellent flat easy riding.

Within 30 mins drive there is an excellent 18-hole golf course at Mazieres-en-Gatine, overlooked by a spectacular chateau.

Locally, there are several 'plans d'eau' which have a large lake for swimming, usually with a man-made beach and waterslide and many activities such as pedalos, water sports, crazy golf - something for all the family.

For the fishermen/women, the fantastic Pescalis, Europe's premier fishing complex is just 10 minutes drive away. It has more than 250 acres of lakes with carp up to 25 kilos!

Only 10 mins away is the Parc Aventure, tree-top fun for all ages and very popular with our visitors, and an excellent Karting track.

For something 'completely different' travel underground at the Faymoreau Mining Centre,and don't miss the beautiful stained glass in the Chapel.

There are many walks in the area - a number to take from Les Glycines Gites. There is a route which takes you through the many Apple Orchards that surround us and slightly further afield, one which tracks the 'famous 'Chabichou' goats cheese.

Just north of L'Absie is the Rocher Branlant - the 'rocking rock'-a huge balanced boulder which moves very slightly when pushed!

The Forest of Secondigny is the meeting place of 2 Santiago de Compostela routes (GR364 and GR36 - which starts in Plymouth).

Of course, there is always shopping.....

• Local Markets in the area, of which, there are many for each day of the week, and a fantastically rich way to experience French life and Food

• Likewise, a brilliant experience , are the numerous 'Vide-Greniers' (literally loft emptying) the 'Car boots' of France