The Passage du Gois, Noirmoutier's secret road

Published on August 8, 2024 at 4:00 pm

In the Noirmoutier region, a road plays hide-and-seek with travellers. It reveals itself as the tides go by, linking the island to the mainland. The 4km-long Passage du Gois fascinates tourists in the Vendée. To cross it, you need to find out about the tide times so as not to get stuck on the rising tide. Find out more about this legendary route!

Le Passage du Gois

Summary

A gateway to the island of Noirmoutier
The flagship activity: fishing on foot
Pay attention to tide times!

A gateway to the island of Noirmoutier

Before the construction of the Noirmoutier bridge in 1971, the Passage du Gois was the only gateway to the island of Noirmoutier. This legendary route links the commune of Beauvoir-sur-Mer to the island of Noirmoutier, and is unique in that it is revealed as the tides change. Twice a day, for the space of an hour or two, the sea recedes and the paved roadway can be seen and crossed on foot, by car or by bike. And if this submersible road in the Bay of Bourgneuf is unique in the world, it's for its exceptional length of 4.2 km.

The hidden route of the Passage du Gois

The flagship activity: fishing on foot

Much more than just an activity, fishing on foot at the Passage du Gois is a genuine tradition. Once the sea recedes, beginners and experienced fishermen alike are delighted to fill their baskets with clams, wild oysters, cockles, periwinkles and other shellfish, all in compliance with certain regulations.

Fishing on foot, the ideal family activity

Pay attention to tide times!

Despite signs on both sides of the crossing, many accidents occur every year. It's not uncommon to see vehicles stuck in the mud, the fault of the unwary who don't respect the tide timetable and get caught out by the rising water. If you find yourself trapped on foot, don't panic, you can take refuge at the top of one of the 9 refuge markers. Useful to know...