Kitesurfing at La Tranche-sur-Mer

La Tranche-sur-Mer, often called the wind-sports capital of the Vendée, offers a series of sandy beaches that catch the region's reliable sea breezes. South-westerly through north-westerly winds blow cross-onshore, with chop and small waves and flatter water over the offshore bars. The long beaches and steady wind make it a busy summer hub for kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Best wind directions: SW, W, NW