The effects of tourism on space and society in the south Vendeen littoral, from La Tranche-sur-Mer to the bay of l'Aiguillon

The attraction of the coast of south Vendée is mainly due to its long stretches of sandy beaches and to the mildness of the weather. Following the Second World War, the number of tourists grew rapidly this being a popular family area with camping, caravanning, renting of lodgings, staying with friends or relatives, or second homes. This tourism development not only puts growing pressure on space, but also on traditional local trades. The most disrupted is agriculture. The biological exploitation of the sea has remained at l'Aiguillon-La Faute. At La Tranche and La Faute, tourism takes first place. At l'Aiguillon, where the balance of trades is better, it would be a mistake to sacrifice the biological exploitation of the sea for tourism.