1709801913768The Virgin stands like a lighthouse on the waterfront. Pointing to the horizon, it has been keeping an eye on the ocean since 1868. A must-see monument in the resort, she is best placed to contemplate the beautiful sunsets.
Behind it, a bust pays tribute to Jacques LAPORTE, founder of Montalivet.
💡🍀Alittle tip: walk around the column and luck will smile on you!
20240318 124804 Rotated
20240318 125227 RotatedThe only remaining trace is the name “Vendays”, a contraction of the Gallic words vindos (white) and ialo (clearing).
There are many legends about Montalivet… so it’s up to you to choose your favorite!
An old shepherd called Libet lived in our commune. In the local dialect, we used to say “jou mounte a Libet” when we brought him provisions while he was grazing his flock.
After a boat carrying olives ran aground near Soulac, the currents brought the cargo to our beaches, giving rise to the name “Mount of Olives”: Monte Oliveto.
The historian Jean Dufour also reports hypotheses on a Breton origin (“avel eleiz”, the wind in full) or even Gascon (“mont alibet”, bare mountain).
Img 3383In the heart of the pine forest, the Grange du Patrimoine and its natural spaces are dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and traditions that are the strength of our region. This museum is the perfect place to learn more about local activities and heritage. 100,000 years of the Médoc’s history are described: its geology, history, climate, fauna, flora…
A local association, Los Tradinaires, is exhibiting photos, tools and historical documents to showcase the work of the commune’s former resin makers. From the preparation of the pine to the harvesting of the resin, a film explains the activity of gemmage before the 60s.
The Heritage Barn is open to the public free of charge.
Visits are on Tuesday afternoons. Please register on 05.56.09.30.12
