There are houses that seem to carry the warmth of shared moments in every corner, and Villa du Soleil Couchant is one of them. Among whispering pines just set back from the ocean, this impressive home invites you into a space where time feels softer and days unfold with ease. Lovingly restored with charm, its character remains beautifully intact, blending traditional décor with thoughtful modern touches that bring both comfort and old-fashioned elegance to every stay.
Inside, a generous lounge forms the social heart of the house, where original architectural details meet fine furnishings, and wide openings draw the garden into view. The dining area is perfectly suited to grand convivial meals, while the well-equipped kitchen has been designed with group living in mind, making shared cooking both practical and enjoyable, or you could hire a chef for part of your stay. Each of the seven bedrooms offers its own distinct atmosphere, most with their own bath/shower rooms.
Moments of relaxation centre around the indoor pool, set beneath a glass roof where changing light creates a soothing, almost meditative setting throughout the year. A 4-person sauna and jacuzzi add to the appeal whilst outside, terraces and garden spaces unfold with glimpses towards the ocean, offering countless spots to gather, play pétanque or simply listen out for the sound of birdsong.
By the curve of Cayola Bay on the Vendée coastline, the villa enjoys a setting where rugged rocks meet the shifting blues of the Atlantic. A coastal cycling path runs beside the road in front of the villa, leading towards nearby beaches and scenic viewpoints. Bourgenay’s marina and amenities are a short drive away, while the wild sands of Plage du Veillon invite long walks by the water. In nearby Les Sables-d’Olonne, a lively seaside atmosphere awaits, with water sports, a bustling harbour and a calendar of events throughout the year.
Days at Villa du Soleil Couchant find their own rhythm, shaped by sea air and shared moments - a place where time feels gently unhurried.
Features:
Villa Interiors
Ground Floor (some steps)
- Entrance hallway- Large living area with various sofas, table football and doors opening to garden- Dining room (curtained from living area) with doors opening to indoor swimming pool area- Kitchen, fully-equipped including bean-to-cup coffee machine, Nespresso machine, kettle, toaster, induction hob, oven, American-style fridge-freezer, microwave, dishwasher and crepe/fondue/raclette maker- Shower room and WC (near entrance)
Ground Floor Bedroom Quarter (via four steps from living area)
- Master bedroom 1 with double bed, dressing area with safe, garden access and en suite bathroom with Italian shower, double hand basin and enclosed WC- Dorm-style children’s quad bedroom with two sets of bunk-beds and garden access- Separate shower room with walk-in shower, double hand basin and enclosed WC
Upstairs
- Bedroom 2 with double bed and en suite bathroom with round bath, hand basin and toilet. Doors open to conservatory-style room with seating and windows- Bedroom 3 with double bed (can be split as twin) and en suite bathroom with small round bath, sink and toilet. Doors open to conservatory-style room with seating and windows- Bedroom 4 with double bed and access to shared balcony (overlooking pool roof and trees)- Bedroom 5 with double bed and access to shared balcony (overlooking pool roof and trees)- Jack n Jill style shared en suite bathroom (accessed via bedrooms 4 and 5) with large bath, shower, double handbasin and enclosed WC- Separate WC (in hallway)- Bedroom 6 with double bed and en suite bathroom with bath, hand basin and toilet- Laundry room
Indoor Swimming Pool (via steps from dining area)
- Indoor heated swimming pool (15x7.5m, depth: max 2.45m), heated to approximately 28C, with secure access- Poolside terrace with loungers, seating and doors opening to outdoor terraces- 4-person jacuzzi- 4-person sauna and shower room with two showers, toilet and hand basin
Outside Grounds (some steps)
- Large garden and wooded grounds with paths and statues- Various terraces with garden furnishings- Gas barbecue and electric griddle- Pétanque pitch- Private parking and garage
Location:
Perched above the sweeping curve of Le Cayola bay, Villa du Soleil Couchant enjoys a privileged setting on the Vendée coastline, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic’s ever-changing hues.
With only a road and walking/cycling path separating the estate to the rocky shores and sea below, this striking location features only a handful of neighbouring properties and remains within easy reach of some of the region’s most sought-after seaside destinations. Walk or cycle around 700m along the road/path and you will reach a wild stony bay and a high-end French restaurant with a terrace and exceptional view (check opening days in advance and book ahead).
Just a short drive away, Bourgenay (4km) provides convenient amenities alongside its marina atmosphere, while the unspoilt sands of Plage du Veillon (5.5km) are perfect for long coastal walks and relaxed beach days. The nearby town of Talmont-Saint-Hilaire (9km) adds further appeal with its local shops and services – it’s also home to Château de Talmont where events take place in the summer months.
For a livelier coastal experience, Les Sables-d’Olonne (9km) is renowned as one of France’s premier seaside resorts. Its expansive bay is a hub for water sports, from sailing and paddleboarding to kayaking and sea excursions, while its vibrant promenade hosts a variety of events throughout the year. The town is also internationally celebrated as the starting point of the Vendée Globe, drawing visitors to its bustling harbour and maritime atmosphere.
Heading south, the coastline continues to impress with the wild beauty of Plage des Conches (30km) and the seaside charm of La Tranche-sur-Mer (36km), both known for their wide beaches and excellent surf conditions. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the oceanfront Port Bourgenay Golf Course (3km) nearby, while families will appreciate the Vendée Aquarium, just a 5-minute drive away.
For a memorable day trip, the Île de Ré is accessible in around 90 minutes by car or via a seasonal boat from La Tranche-sur-Mer. With its picturesque villages, sandy shores, salt marshes and laid-back island lifestyle, it offers a delightful contrast to the mainland, completing the rich variety of experiences surrounding Villa du Soleil Couchant.
Terms & Conditions:
?
€5000 charged to client’s credit card by the owner as a pre-authorisation one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection.
4.00 p.m.
10.00 a.m.
Yes.
Extra €25 per person, payable locally.
Not allowed.
Celebrations and special events are not allowed.
Flexible
Extra €990, payable locally. Guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit.
Outside only.
7 nights in July and August. 2 nights during low season, increased to 4 or 5 nights across selected May dates, please enquire for more information.
Yes.
Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures.
French Visitors Tax payable locally in cash (typically costs €1-€10 per adult per night - please enquire if exact amount is required).
Yes.
