I know what you mean,the Vendee's main resorts can seem a bit soulless and concrete. The old part of La Chaume is nice to see,as is St Gilles Croix de Vie; lots of old streets to mooch around there.
Castles and old towns/villages, Apremont is a gem, also Clisson, Noirmoutier, Tiffauges, Rocheserviere, Luçon and of course Nantes. Just to the north, Pornic is a beautiful seaside town too.
The history is there in La Vendee,but not always on the seafront; you might have to go inland a little & search it out.
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
Our plan doesn't involve falling in love with any given area "too much"!!
Last year, our debut... we went for, and thoroughly enjoyed, a small section of La Dordogne. This year, as we have a little less time to play with, we've trimmed a couple of hours travelling time off, and are heading for the Vendee.
Next year, we may well introduce "one stop" overnight camping to our plans, as we shall have an easy-erect inflatable (as opposed to the current overnight hotels in each direction), and with a little luck, may head further south, may include 2 overnighters in each direction, and may even involve crossing more than one border!!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.