Talmont-Saint-Hilaire Castle: a journey to the heart of the Middle Ages
Close to camping Le Port De Moricq
Discover the Château
in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire
Just a 20-minute drive from Le Port de Moricq campsite, the Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire stands promontorily on the Vendée coast. Dating back to 1020, this medieval fortress is one of the oldest stone buildings in France and one of the region’s most emblematic historic sites.
Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire: a glimpse into its medieval history
A fortress steeped in history
From its construction by William the Bald to the presence of Richard the Lionheart, the château has stood the test of centuries and feudal alliances. Today, its remains offer a glimpse into the past, with an exceptional keep – a former bell tower converted into a defensive tower – and fascinating archaeological remains.
Over the centuries, the Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire has undergone several phases of transformation. Beginning as a military fortress in the 11th century, it became a seigneurial residence, then a strategic stronghold during the medieval wars. It has also endured the vagaries of history: looting, rebuilding and occupation. Its dominant position on the estuary enabled it to control the region’s maritime and commercial exchanges, reinforcing its strategic importance.
The castle walls tell the story of this long epic. Explanatory panels punctuate the tour, providing an educational insight accessible to all. Models show how the architecture has evolved over the ages. An ideal tour for history buffs, families and heritage enthusiasts.
Events and guided tours at Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire
Tours, activities and events
Open fromApril to November 2025, the château offers a wide variety of activities: fascinating guided tours, birds of prey demonstrations, medieval workshops (calligraphy, crossbow, mini-farm), treasure hunts, egg hunts at Easter and chivalry shows in summer.
Guided tours, suitable for all ages, are led by costumed guides who share historical anecdotes and fascinating tales of illustrious figures who have left their mark on the château’s history. Falconry demonstrations are a big hit with the public, allowing them to observe birds of prey in flight in the authentic setting of the inner courtyard.
Children can have fun and learn at the same time, thanks to the educational workshops on offer during the school vacations. Treasure hunts invite the whole family to solve riddles and discover the site’s hidden secrets. In summer, live shows of chivalry, combining equestrian stunts and armored combat, enrich the immersive experience.
The program evolves throughout the year, with highlights such as Halloween, the Journées du Patrimoine (Heritage Days) and summer evening events. Each season brings its own set of events, making each visit unique.
Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire: store, catering and visitor services
Resources, services and immersion
The site has been awarded the Monument Historique label, and is accessible to children, school groups and people with reduced mobility. It also features a store, cafeteria, picnic areas and parking lot.
Everything is designed to offer a comfortable and inclusive experience. Specific routes have been laid out to facilitate visits by people with reduced mobility, with access ramps and adapted information aids. Accessible toilets are also available close to the reception area.
The castle store offers a selection of souvenirs, historical books, medieval toys and handicrafts. The cafeteria offers cold drinks, ice creams and snacks for post-tour refreshment. There are also shaded picnic areas for families to relax in pleasant surroundings.
For groups, educational packages are available on reservation, including workshops and personalized tours. The site regularly welcomes school groups, with content adapted to history and civics curricula. A real educational tool for discovering our heritage.
Culture, nature and leisure: a trip to the Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire
A cultural getaway at your fingertips
Majestic, lively and steeped in history, the Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire offers a captivating blend of spectacle and heritage. Just a short jaunt from Le Port de Moricq campsite, it will delight young and old in search of medieval emotions and marine panoramas.
The site’s proximity to the Vendée coastline makes it easy to combine this visit with a day at the beach or a hike along the coastal paths. The château makes an ideal stopover on a vacation in the region, offering a balance of culture, nature and relaxation.
This destination appeals to families and history buffs alike, thanks to its interactive activities, authentic setting and accessibility. Whether you come for a first discovery or to learn more about the Middle Ages, you’ll leave with rich, vivid memories.
In short, the Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire is a must-see for anyone visiting the Vendée. A cultural getaway that’s fun, educational and easy to get to, it’s a must-see when you stay at Le Port de Moricq campsite.
Château de Talmont-Saint-Hilaire opening hours, prices and access
Practical information
Open non-stop, with typical opening hours from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. depending on the season, the visit generally lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours, ideal for a family or historical outing.