La Roche-sur-Yon is the capital of the Vendée, chosen by Napoleon I in 1804.

 
The centre of La Roche-sur-Yon is in the shape of a pentagon, with a grand statue of Napoleon at its very heart. On Place Napoléon, there are also large metal creatures , such as a crocodile or frogs, that you can interact with and manipulate. The neo-classical Saint Louis church is impressive and you can visit the oldest house of the town (1566). There’s a beautiful Italian theatre that resembles a magnificent Roman villa and is a landmark in a landscape of Napoleonesque buildings. 

Within the pentagon centre of La Roche-sur-Yon, there is also a National Stud farm, Haras de la Vendée , where you can learn all about equestrian arts and watch stunning spectacles showcasing horse and man performing in perfect harmony.

At the north of La Roche-sur-Yon, the reservoir at the Moulin-Papon dam is a pleasant place for walks.

> La Roche-sur-Yon Tourist Office