Why Investing in Holiday Lets in Vendée is A Lucrative Venture Yielding 16% Net Returns

People are always surprised when I tell them I don’t invest in the UK, all my investments are in France.

I always hear “weren’t you scared?” “How did you find the properties?”

As an investor I was seeking good returns but for a small outlay, an opportunity in the realm of holiday lets seemed the perfect answer

After a lot of internet searching I found myself drawn to the picturesque region of Vendée, France. With careful research and a discerning eye, I ventured into this market, acquiring my first property for just €9,995 and subsequently reaping a remarkable 16% net yield, I went on to purchase a further 9 to run as holiday lets and managed the bookings on Airbnb. 

Here’s why I chose Vendée as my investment destination and why it has proven to be a wise decision.

 

1. **The Vendée Globe**: The allure of the world-renowned Vendée Globe race, where 40 international skippers embark on a solo, non-stop circumnavigation without any assistance, was a significant factor in my decision. The event, organized every four years in Les Sables d'Olonne, not only attracts avid sailing enthusiasts but also draws global attention, ensuring a steady stream of tourists seeking accommodation during this exhilarating event.

 

2. **Olympic Torch Relay**: Vendée's inclusion as one of the sites for the Olympic Torch Relay further solidified its appeal as an investment hub. With the torch journeying through 64 territories, including Vendée, the region is poised to experience heightened tourism activity, presenting ample opportunities for holiday let owners to capitalize on the influx of visitors.

 

3. **Cycling Haven**: Vendée’s reputation as a cycling paradise, epitomized by the renowned "Vélodyssée" route tracing along its scenic Atlantic coast, caught my attention. With 18 designated cycling routes, the region caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes. 

This emphasis on outdoor activities ensures a steady stream of tourists throughout the year, making it an ideal location for holiday lets.

4. **Puy du Fou**: The presence of Puy du Fou, a world-renowned theme park located in the northern part of Vendée, further sweetened the deal for me. Boasting spectacular shows ranging from gladiatorial battles to medieval jousts, the park attracts millions of visitors annually. 

Its immersive experiences and captivating performances ensure repeat visits, providing holiday let owners with a reliable source of rental income.

Moreover, the evening spectacle, Le Cinéscénie, offers a mesmerizing journey through Vendée's history, featuring over 1,100 participants and several animals. 

This cultural gem adds depth to Vendée's appeal as a tourist destination, enhancing the overall experience for visitors and, consequently, the attractiveness of holiday let investments in the region.

My decision to invest in holiday lets in Vendée, France, has proven to be astute, yielding a remarkable 16% annual net return. By meticulously researching and understanding the local attractions and activities, I was able to identify a lucrative market ripe for investment. 

Vendée's blend of sporting events, cultural festivities, and natural beauty make it an irresistible destination for tourists, ensuring a steady demand for holiday accommodation. As well as providing guaranteed rentals from sponsors, hosts, participants and promotors of these events, meaning I never have to worry about void periods or low occupancy.

As we struggle more and more to get on the UK property ladder, I remain confident that overseas investments will continue enduring appeal and profitability as an investment destination.