La Roche sur Yon is the town that Napoleon built. It is located in the heart of the Vendee in Western Loire, and celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2004. Although French property in the town is of a fairly modern construction, La Roche sur Yon is popular with tourists and foreign property buyers alike. It also has a regional airport to its north-east, providing international access to the beautiful Vendee countryside.
When La Roche sur Yon was constructed on the old settlement site in 1804, it was given the name of 'Napoleon'. The town's name was in fact changed a number of times before La Roche sur Yon - meaning the "Rock on the Yon" - was accepted. Given the translation it will probably come as little surprise to learn that the River Yon flows through the eastern part of the town. La Roche sur Yon property with views of the Yon are some of the most sought-after type of French property in the town.
La Roche sur Yon is seen by many as the gateway to the Vendee countryside. Following the Yon out from the town in either direction will yield a landscape dominated by fields of sunflowers and gentle undulating fields lined with trees - a perfect location in which to look for that secluded villa in France. Prospective La Roche sur Yon property buyers may also find a number of watermills along the river, some of which may possibly be up for sale!
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