Automobile Museum, Vendée Coast Travel Guide

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Explore over 200 vintage vehicles from 1885 to present day at this family-owned automotive museum in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, France.

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Automobile Museum

The Musée Automobile de Vendée showcases a private collection of over 200 vehicles, from vintage cars to motorcycles, dating back to 1885. Founded by the Giron family, the museum displays automotive history through meticulously restored vehicles and period memorabilia in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire.

A brief summary to Automobile Museum

D949 Avenue des Sables, Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, 85440, FR
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Monday 10 am-7 pm
Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
Thursday 10 am-7 pm
Friday 10 am-7 pm
Saturday 10 am-7 pm
Sunday 10 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Automobile Museum.

Visit during the summer months (April to September) to enjoy the museum's extended opening hours.
Take advantage of the picnic area to enjoy a meal surrounded by automotive history.
Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events.

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Getting There

Driving

The Musée Automobile de Vendée is located on the D949, the road between Les Sables-d'Olonne and Talmont-Saint-Hilaire. From either town, follow the D949. The museum is well-signposted. There is ample free parking available on site.
Public Transport

While there isn't a direct bus route to the museum, you can take a bus to Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and then a taxi to the museum. Buses are available from Les Sables-d'Olonne and other nearby towns. A taxi from the center of Talmont-Saint-Hilaire to the museum will cost approximately €9-€20. During the summer, 'La Talmondaise' is a free shuttle that runs between the Veillon beach and the city center with 11 stops. From one of the stops you could take a taxi to the museum.

Discover more about Automobile Museum

The Musée Automobile de Vendée, located in Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, is a testament to one family's passion for automotive history. Gaston Giron started the collection in 1939, and it has since grown to include over 200 vehicles, ranging from automobiles and motorcycles to bicycles and horse-drawn carriages. Approximately 160 of these vehicles are displayed in a 3,300 square meter hall.The museum's collection spans from 1885 to the prototypes of the future, with vehicles from French and international brands. The displays include a Grand Bi (1875), a De Dion Bouton tricycle (1885), and a Chenard & Walker Type U (1912). The museum also features an exceptional collection of vintage posters and advertising panels, enhancing the visitor experience.More than just a display of vehicles, the museum recreates Gaston Giron's first garage from 1929, offering a glimpse into the early days of automotive service. Each year, newly restored models are added to the collection, ensuring a fresh experience for returning visitors. The Musée Automobile de Vendée is a must-see destination for car enthusiasts and families alike.