Famous for numerous gently sloping beaches which are ideal for water sports or just sunbathing. The region is also noted for the 'Venise Vert' (Green Venice) canal system, and water sports and walking around the Mervent area as well as the Pierre Brune fun park for children. For the connoisseur the Vendée is surrounded on three sides by the Loire, Cognac and Bordeaux. Inland the landscape is dominated by vineyards and sunflower fields with small villages every few miles. Ideal for a quiet holiday in the sun, the Vendée is said to equal anywhere in France for hours of sunshine each year. The climate means the season extends from Easter to late October - the average monthly temperature in September is 70 degrees.