Launching the new chess year in Vendée, the 8th Open des Herbiers 2026 takes place on Saturday-Sunday, January 3-4, 2026, in Les Herbiers, France. Hosted in a modern sports hall, the tournament offers a clean five-round format with an increment from move one, a FIDE-standard rating, and smooth on-site logistics that make it easy for visiting players.

This page focuses on Tournoi A (rating 1800-2399)—the top section of the weekend festival—covering the exact venue address, time control, entry fees, and confirmed prize highlights. Additional sections run in parallel the same weekend, contributing to an overall prize pool managed by the organizer.

🗓️ Event Details

🏆 Prize Fund

(Other prize breakdowns for concurrent sections are set by the organizer.)

⏱️ Time Control & Pairings

• Cadence: 60′ + 30″/move from move 1.

• Rounds: 5 (Swiss system) across the weekend.

• Regulations: FIDE Laws of Chess; results sent for FIDE Standard rating.

• Pairings: Standard Swiss pairing software; tie-break order announced by the organizer.

📂 Sections / Groups

(Additional sections run in parallel; details published by the host club.)

📅 Schedule

(Exact round times were not officially listed at publication; the organizer posts them on site and via the club.)

📝 Registration

• Who can play: Players within 1800–2399 for Tournoi A.

• How to enter: Check updates and contacts via the club site: https://www.echecslesherbiers.fr.

• Fees: Adults €25 (late €30 after Dec 31, 2025) • Youth €12 (late €15 after Dec 31, 2025).

• Rating submission: Event homologated by FFE and submitted to FIDE (February list).

• On-site: Bring ID/FIDE details for verification at check-in.

👥 Organizer

The Open is run by the Club d’Échecs des Herbiers, emphasizing friendly hospitality, efficient round turnover, and centrally located facilities.

• Website: https://www.echecslesherbiers.fr

🏨 Venue

Gymnase de l’Amiral — Rue de l’Amiral de l’Étenduère, 85500 Les Herbiers, France
A modern sports hall offering ample space, convenient access, and parking near the town center.

🚗 How to Get There

• By car: Navigate to Gymnase de l’Amiral, 85500 Les Herbiers; local parking available.

• By public transport: Regional links to Les Herbiers, then short local transfers to the gymnasium.

• Practical tip: Arrive early on Saturday to complete on-site check-in before Round 1.

Start your 2026 season with five focused classical rounds and a welcoming atmosphere at the 8th Open des Herbiers in Les Herbiers, France.