The area: things to see and do
Oléron, Brouage, Royan, Rochefort: a selection of checked visits and outings, all within an hour’s drive of the estate. You will find even more places, with our comments, in our guide rochebonne-vacances.fr.
Beaches
Marennes Plage
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
A bathing lagoon of around 5 hectares, protected by a line of dunes, where you can swim whatever the tide, with no baïnes (rip-current hollows) and no tidal currents. Water sports centre, places to eat on site and views of the Seudre bridge and the Oléron bridge.
Open all year round; lifeguarded bathing in summer. No animals around the bathing lagoon at any time of year.
Plage de Bourcefranc-le-Chapus
Bourcefranc-le-Chapus
A quiet sandy beach south of Bourcefranc, in the Seudre estuary, looking out to the Île d’Oléron and the Arvert peninsula. Bathing is unsupervised.
Free access all year round. Dogs allowed on a lead all year round.
Plage de la Cèpe (Ronce-les-Bains)
La Tremblade
A sandy beach of about 2.7 km lined with seaside villas and pine trees, facing the Île d’Oléron and very popular with families; at low tide it reveals the oyster beds. Bathing is unsupervised.
Open all year round. No animals on the beaches from 15 June to 15 September; dogs allowed on a lead for the rest of the year.
Plage de la Pointe Espagnole (Côte Sauvage)
La Tremblade
The gateway to the Côte Sauvage, reached by a sandy path of about 460 m through dunes and pine woods from the car parks. The ocean here is exposed to strong currents and big waves: swim only in the supervised area in summer.
Free access all year round; lifeguards on duty in summer. Dogs allowed on a lead except from 15 June to 15 September.
Plage de Gatseau
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
A sheltered beach at the southern tip of the Île d’Oléron, facing south towards the Arvert peninsula and fringed by a pine forest. Blue Flag and Tourisme & Handicap labels; a memorial stone recalls Operation Jupiter of April 1945.
Open all year round; lifeguarded bathing in summer (July–August). Dogs not allowed in July and August; allowed on a lead for the rest of the year.
Grande Plage de Saint-Trojan
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
A long sandy beach facing the Atlantic, reached through forest and dunes, popular for surfing, kitesurfing and sand yachting; currents and baïnes (rip-current hollows) mean you must swim within the supervised area.
Open all year round; lifeguarded bathing in summer (July–August). Dogs on a lead allowed all year round, but in July and August only south of the supervised area.
Plage de la Giraudière
Le Grand-Village-Plage
A sandy beach of around 3 km lined by pine forest and popular with surfers, with marked zones for surfing, kitesurfing and sand yachting.
Open all year round; lifeguard post in season. Dogs and horses are not allowed from 15 June to 30 September inclusive (except guide and assistance dogs).
Plage de l’Écuissière
Dolus-d’Oléron
A sandy beach on the west coast, between La Rémigeasse and Vertbois, backed by the state forest; at low tide, a wide rocky foreshore lends itself to shore fishing and lets you see a fish weir, with an information board. Swimming is unsupervised, even in July and August.
Open all year round. Pets are allowed according to the tourist office; please follow the municipal by-law posted on site.
Plage de Bonne Anse
Les Mathes
A gently sloping sandy beach at the heart of the bay of Bonne Anse, in an unspoilt natural setting, near the La Palmyre watersports centre. Swimming is unsupervised.
Free access all year round. Pets are allowed on the stretch from the Chemin du Corsaire to La Coubre lighthouse.
Plage de La Palmyre
Les Mathes
A sheltered family beach in the bay of Bonne Anse, close to the centre of La Palmyre and the marina; the nearby channel and currents call for caution. Adapted access for people with reduced mobility.
Open all year round; lifeguarded in season. Pets are not allowed on the beach according to the tourist office; refer to the municipal by-law posted at the entrance.
Plage de la Grande Côte
Saint-Palais-sur-Mer
A 2.5 km sandy beach lined with dunes and forest north of Saint-Palais, popular for surfing, bodyboarding and sand yachting; bunkers are dotted along the site.
Open all year round; lifeguarded in summer. Dogs are allowed only from 1 October to 31 March.
Plage du Bureau
Saint-Palais-sur-Mer
A sandy beach in the heart of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, lined with Belle Époque villas and skirted by the sentier des douaniers coastal path. Children’s club and facilities for people with reduced mobility.
Open all year round; lifeguarded in summer. Dogs are allowed only from 1 October to 31 March.
Plage de Nauzan
Vaux-sur-Mer
The largest beach in Vaux-sur-Mer, shared with Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, lined by a paved promenade with shops and restaurants; night market in summer. Access ramps, and bathing wheelchairs lent by the lifeguard station during the supervised season.
accessible all year round; lifeguarded in summer; no animals on the beach from 1 April to 30 September (rules posted at the entrance)
Plage de la Grande Conche
Royan
A sandy beach of about 2.6 km in the town centre, near the harbour, with calm waters, children’s clubs, beach volleyball and a seafront lined with shops. Blue Flag and Tourisme & Handicap label.
Accessible all year round; supervised bathing area in summer. No animals, even on a lead, from 1 April to 30 September (municipal by-law).
Plage de Pontaillac
Royan
A family beach facing the residential Pontaillac district, used for surfing, bodyboarding and windsurfing, with restaurants and cafés along the beach. Access ramp for people with reduced mobility.
Accessible all year round; lifeguarded from late June to early September. No animals, even on a lead, from 1 April to 30 September (municipal by-law).
Plage de Saint-Georges – Le Central
Saint-Georges-de-Didonne
A sandy beach a short walk from the centre of Saint-Georges-de-Didonne, well suited to family swimming, water sports and strolls along the seafront.
Accessible all year round; lifeguarded in summer. Animals not allowed on the beach (municipal by-law posted at the entrance).
Plage des Nonnes
Meschers-sur-Gironde
A family beach of sand and pebbles near the village of Meschers, partly shaded, with a children’s beach club, sailing club, bar and restaurant; windsurfing, sailing and paddleboarding are practised here.
Accessible all year round; lifeguarded in summer. Dogs not allowed, even on a lead, from 1 April to 30 September; dog walking is permitted on the municipality’s beaches from 1 October to 31 March.
Grande Plage de Fouras
Fouras-les-Bains
A gently sloping sandy beach between the Bois Vert and Fort Vauban, with a seawater pool and two bathing pontoons. Beach club in July and August, and kayak and paddleboard hire in summer.
accessible all year round; lifeguarded in July and August; dogs are banned all year on the Grande Plage: according to the town hall, only the Plage Sud is open to them, from 1 November to 30 March (on a trial basis)
Plage de Châtelaillon-Plage
Châtelaillon-Plage
Around 3 km of fine sandy beach along the seafront, with beach equipment and sun lounger hire, and two lifeguard stations in summer.
Open all year round; lifeguarded swimming in July and August. Dogs are not allowed on the beach, even on a lead, from 1 May to the end of October (except guide and assistance dogs); allowed on a lead the rest of the year.
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Villages and harbours
Mornac-sur-Seudre
Mornac-sur-Seudre
A former fishing port on the Seudre estuary, listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Mornac combines colourful oyster huts, an old covered market, the Romanesque church of Saint-Pierre with its fortified bell tower, and narrow lanes now home to craft workshops and galleries. Explore the village on foot; from April to October, waymarked Détours® loops set off along the marsh dykes.
All year round (Détours® loops along the dykes from April to October)
Port de La Cotinière
Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron
The leading fishing port in Charente-Maritime and the only port on Oléron’s west coast, La Cotinière lets you watch the boats come in and the catch being landed. The tourist office runs guided tours of the port area on request, including for groups.
All year round
Village et port de Boyardville
Saint-Georges-d’Oléron
A village that grew up in the early 19th century with the building of Fort Boyard, which stands a few kilometres offshore: marina, La Perrotine channel, the former Maison Heureuse holiday camp and a beach bordered by the Saumonards state forest. An easy heritage trail, whose route can be downloaded from the tourist office website, lets you explore it on foot.
All year round
Couleurs Cabanes, ateliers d’artisans d’art du port du Château-d’Oléron
Le Château-d’Oléron
On the harbour at Le Château-d’Oléron, some thirty artists and craftspeople have set up their workshops in former oyster huts, at the initiative of the town council. Wander freely among the huts; car and bike parking on site.
All year round
Port et chenal de La Cayenne
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
Around 4 km long, from the Marennes marina to the old landing stage on the Seudre, La Cayenne channel is the longest in the Marennes-Oléron basin: colourful oyster huts, oyster ponds (claires) and waymarked paths for walkers and mountain bikers. Oyster farms here offer seafood platters and sell oysters, to enjoy on the spot or to take away.
All year round
Centre de Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron
Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron
The island’s main town, with pedestrianised shopping streets and markets: a 12th-century lantern of the dead, a church whose hexagonal bell tower served as a landmark for sailors, an 1899 bandstand and the Maison des Aïeules, where Pierre Loti is buried (not open to visitors). The tourist office occasionally runs a guided tour in Loti’s footsteps, booking required.
All year round
Fouras-les-Bains et le fort Vauban
Fouras-les-Bains
A seaside resort on a peninsula facing Fort Boyard and the Île d’Aix: the keep of Fort Vauban houses the regional museum (ten rooms of local and maritime history) and its terrace overlooks the estuary, while the Pointe de la Fumée, a major oyster-farming spot, is where the boats leave for Aix. The fort has many steps and is not wheelchair accessible.
All year round; Fort Vauban museum open from February to mid-December, weekends only outside summer and the French school holidays
Île d’Aix (traversée depuis Fouras)
Île-d’Aix
A car-free island at the mouth of the Charente, linked all year round to the Pointe de la Fumée (Fouras) by a boat for foot passengers and cyclists, in about twenty minutes: a fortified village designed by Vauban, the Napoleon museum and Fort Liédot. Dogs are allowed on board with a ticket and must be kept on a lead; there is no cash machine on the island, so bring cash.
All year round (daily crossings, times depend on the tides)
Port-des-Barques
Port-des-Barques
A fishing and oyster-farming village on a peninsula at the mouth of the Charente: low houses on the estuary side, interwar seaside villas on the cliff, carrelet fishing huts on stilts and views of the islands and forts. In season, the peninsula’s ecomuseum presents oyster farming and the history of the estuary.
All year round; ecomuseum open from June to September and during some French school holidays
Site ostréicole de la Baudissière
Dolus-d’Oléron
Oyster-farming site on the east coast of Oléron, where the old huts, restored by the local council with volunteers, form a colourful group along the Baudissière channel; they house artists’ and craftspeople’s workshops (painting, jewellery, soaps, perfumes, hats, leather) and temporary exhibitions. Free access all year round, with a car park and public toilets.
All year round (free access)
Port de Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
Oyster port with colourful wooden huts, renovated in 1997: some are still used by oyster farmers, others house the village’s painters and galleries. Free to stroll all year round; pets welcome.
All year round
Ports de La Tremblade (chenal de l’Atelier, chenal ostréicole de la Route Neuve et bassin à flot)
La Tremblade
At the heart of the Seudre estuary, the port of La Tremblade brings together leisure boating, oyster farming and fishing around the Chenal de l’Atelier, the Route Neuve oyster channel and the wet dock. Around the quays you will find restaurants, tasting huts and craft shops.
All year round
Talmont-sur-Gironde et l’église Sainte-Radegonde
Talmont-sur-Gironde
Listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Talmont is explored on foot: lanes lined with hollyhocks in summer, Saintonge-style houses, the line of the old ramparts and the 12th-century Romanesque church of Sainte-Radegonde perched on the cliff above the estuary, with its seaside cemetery.
Accessible all year round; car park at the entrance to the village (charges apply from April to September); the village is explored on foot.
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Île d’Oléron and Fort Boyard
Citadelle du Château-d’Oléron
Le Château-d’Oléron
Walk the citadel ramparts freely at any hour, all year round; guided tours mostly run during the French school holidays.
all year round
Maison de la Nature de l’île d’Oléron
Le Château-d’Oléron
Nature workshops, shore-fishing outings and family activities, booked in advance, with a fuller programme during the school holidays.
all year; activities mainly in the school holidays
Port des Salines
Le Grand-Village-Plage
An open-air museum set in the salt marshes: learn how salt is harvested on the island and stroll between the pans.
April to early November
Site ostréicole et naturel de Fort-Royer
Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron
Near Boyardville, an oyster-farming and nature site where you learn how oysters are raised; tours and activities by reservation only.
February to November, on weekdays
Phare de Chassiron
Saint-Denis-d’Oléron
At the island’s northern tip, climb to the top of the lighthouse for the ocean view, then visit its museum.
all year (except 25 December and 1 January)
P’tit Train de Saint-Trojan
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
A little tourist train leaves Saint-Trojan through the forest and dunes; dogs on a lead are welcome aboard.
late March to early October, plus the autumn half-term
Opsitta Parc
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
A LEGO exhibition, an 18-hole mini golf and an outdoor laser game (booking required, from age 6), all in one place.
school holidays and some weekends
Le Marais aux Oiseaux
Dolus-d’Oléron
A park run by the Département and devoted to marshland birds, with a wildlife rescue centre; a peaceful family outing.
February to early November
Centre aquatique Iléo
Dolus-d’Oléron
An indoor pool complex open all year, with an outdoor area in summer: the answer for rainy days with children.
all year (outdoor pools in summer)
Cinéma Eldorado
Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron
Three-screen cinema classified as an arthouse cinema (Art et Essai) and holding the Jeune Public label, in the centre of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron.
Open daily, all year round.
Moulin de La Brée
La Brée-les-Bains
A windmill that has gone back to producing flour, with a hands-on museum space (models, videos, interactive exhibits) on cereal growing, how windmills work and flour, plus a children’s trail. Workshops for children aged 4 to 12 during the spring, summer and All Saints’ school holidays, booking required.
April to early November
Maison éco-paysanne
Le Grand-Village-Plage
A former Oléron farmhouse and interpretation centre on housing, from the homes of the past to eco-friendly homes. A trail for young visitors, activity booklets and workshops for children aged 4 to 12 during the French school holidays (booking required).
April to early November
Les Ânes d’Oléron
Saint-Georges-d’Oléron
An educational farm with more than 70 animals, including around thirty donkeys, showcasing local breeds such as the Poitou donkey. Self-guided farm visits and donkey rides for children aged 3 and over, no booking needed; dogs allowed on a lead.
normally from February to the All Saints’ holidays; opening varies with the season and the weather, and the farm announces rest periods for the donkeys: check the dates on its website before visiting
LudoCafé
Dolus-d’Oléron
A play venue run by a local association (Lud’Oléron Marennes) on rue des Écoles, with play areas suited to children’s ages, including a 0–3 area, and a café area; games evenings are held during the year.
Open all year round on a few days a week, with occasional closures announced on its website; different opening times during the French school holidays.
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Marennes, Brouage and the Seudre
Moulin des Loges
Saint-Just-Luzac
Our village’s tide mill can be seen on a guided tour on Wednesdays, with extra activities in summer.
April to late October, on Wednesdays
Cinéma L’Estran
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
Marennes’ cinema on Place Carnot, with a programme that changes every week: one to keep for a rainy evening.
all year round
Tour de Broue
Saint-Sornin
The remains of a medieval tower overlook the Brouage marshes: open access at any hour, with a far-reaching view.
all year (open access)
Citadelle de Brouage et Halle aux Vivres
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage · 15 min
A fortified village in the middle of the marshes, best explored along its ramparts; the Halle aux Vivres is a separate visit.
all year; Halle aux Vivres February to mid-November
Fort Louvois
Bourcefranc-le-Chapus
A small sea fort facing Oléron: walk there along a causeway at low tide, or take the boat at high tide.
April to early November, depending on the tides
Train des Mouettes
Saujon
A heritage train between Saujon and La Tremblade, along the Seudre estuary; dogs on a lead are allowed aboard.
mid-April to late September
Parc Aventure de la Gataudière
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
A treetop adventure park in Marennes for an afternoon of tree climbing with the family; booking is online.
Église Saint-Pierre-de-Sales et son clocher
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
An 85 m Flamboyant Gothic bell tower from the 15th century, listed as a historic monument: its terrace, 55 m up after 289 steps, looks out over the Seudre, the marshes, the sea and the Île d’Oléron. The bell tower can be climbed in summer and, in winter, by appointment with the presbytery; the church is open on weekdays all year round.
Church open on weekdays all year round; bell tower climb in summer, and in winter by appointment with the presbytery
Église Saint-Just
Saint-Just-Luzac
In the village centre of Saint-Just-Luzac, this 15th- and 16th-century church, listed as a historic monument in 1910, displays a Flamboyant Gothic style rare in Saintonge and an unusual triangular porch.
Open every day, all year round; free, unguided visit.
Château fort de la Fée Mélusine et son parc de loisirs médiéval
Saint-Jean-d’Angle
A fortified castle listed as a historic monument, with a 15-hectare park: more than 40 traditional games, archery, a musical forest, a barefoot trail and a farmyard. Two escape games open to ages 12 and over accompanied by an adult; allow around three hours.
April to September and during the French All Saints’ school holidays; check before you come: opening days vary from period to period; animals allowed
Ludothèque L’Aluette
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
A games library run by a local association (Lud’Oléron Marennes), open to everyone, at the same address as the Marennes media library, with areas suited to toddlers (including a 0–3 area), children and teenagers, and plenty of board games to play on site.
Open all year round, with different opening times during the French school holidays.
Musée du Vélo
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
In the heart of the Brouage citadel, a collection of more than 135 rare bicycles, from the hobby horse to the Solex bike, by way of penny-farthings, tricycles and prototypes, displayed alongside some fifty mannequins in period costume.
May to September; limited opening, visits by appointment possible: it is best to phone before you come
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La Palmyre and Royan
Zoo de La Palmyre
Les Mathes · 30-35 min
La Palmyre Zoo, set under the pines, opens every day of the year; allow a full day, with shows from Easter to early November.
all year round
Luna Park La Palmyre
Les Mathes
La Palmyre’s summer-evening funfair, with rides, stalls and food; dogs are welcome on a lead.
summer evenings (late June to late August)
Phare de la Coubre
La Tremblade
Climb this lighthouse on the edge of the Coubre forest; threatened by erosion, it is due to be dismantled, with no date set.
Coolongalook Parc Aventure
Royan
An adventure park in the heart of a forest in Royan, with treetop courses; opening days are listed on its website.
April to early November
Planet Exotica
Royan
A park of exotic gardens in Royan, with a new ‘Dinoland’ area; open every day, all year round.
all year round
Pointe de Suzac
Saint-Georges-de-Didonne
A protected natural site (Conservatoire du littoral, Natura 2000) with views on one side of the main beach of Saint-Georges-de-Didonne and the Vallières lighthouse, and on the other of Suzac beach and the Michelaise coast; a themed trail runs through it. The Vallières lighthouse was closed to visitors for safety reasons, by municipal order: check before you come.
all year round
Église Notre-Dame de Royan
Royan
Reinforced-concrete church built from 1955 to 1958 by Guillaume Gillet during the rebuilding of Royan, listed as a historic monument in 1988, with its V-shaped supports and saddle-shaped vault. Open every day of the year for self-guided visits; pets are not admitted.
All year round (no pets)
Pont du Diable et sentier des douaniers
Saint-Palais-sur-Mer
From the Corniche des Pierrières, near the Plage du Platin, the view takes in the Pont du Diable rock arch, the Pierrières rocks topped with carrelet fishing huts and the Terre-Nègre lighthouse, on the coastal path (sentier des douaniers) that follows the shore for 3.5 km between the Conche du Bureau and the Plage de la Grande Côte. Since 2022, sections of the path, including the Pont du Diable steps, have been closed by municipal order due to erosion: check before you set out.
All year round
Phare de Cordouan – traversée depuis Royan (Croisières La Sirène)
Royan
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cordouan lighthouse stands out at sea at the mouth of the Gironde; from Royan harbour (quai de Monastir), Croisières La Sirène runs a cruise with commentary and a stop at the lighthouse. At low tide, passengers land by amphibious barge and then on foot, sometimes knee-deep in water: bring shoes that can get wet. The visit requires a good level of fitness.
From April to 1 November, departure times vary daily with the tides; booking strongly recommended in July and August. Pets are not allowed on this lighthouse visit programme.
Abbaye de Sablonceaux
Sablonceaux
Founded in 1136 and now run by the Chemin Neuf Community, the abbey retains its abbey church with Romanesque bell tower and domes, its chapter house, its former dormitory and the abbot’s lodging. Temporary exhibitions and a shop on site.
Free, unrestricted access all year round; guided tours from June to September, and once a month for the rest of the year. Animals welcome; groups of 10 or more on request.
Family Fun Park
Meschers-sur-Gironde
Indoor leisure complex on the route de Semussac: indoor electric karting (mini-karting from age 2), bowling, laser tag, trampoline park, fun climbing wall and Kid Park, with a bar and restaurant on site.
Open all year round, closed one day a week outside the French school holidays; the karting has separate opening hours, to be checked on the website.
Pirate Parc
Saint-Sulpice-de-Royan
Indoor, air-conditioned pirate-themed play park for children aged 1 to 12: slides, trampolines, ball pit, rope bridge and a motor-skills area for toddlers. Snack bar and restaurant on site.
Open all year round; check before you come: opening days vary, with more during the French school holidays. No pets.
Karting de Royan
Royan
Approved 600 m track with electronic timing, in the Royan 2 business park; junior karts from a height of 1.30 m (from age 7–8). Booking recommended during the holidays.
From mid-February to late November; daily during the French school holidays, on certain days only at other times.
Cinéma Le Lido
Royan
Six-screen cinema on the place de la Gare, right by Royan railway station, showing current releases.
Open all year round, with screenings every day; programme on the cinema’s website. No pets.
Musée de Royan
Royan
The municipal museum traces the history of Royan: the 1622 siege, the Cordouan lighthouse and the Gironde pilots, the rise of sea bathing, Picasso’s stay in 1939-1940, the 1945 bombings and the modern town. Holding the Famille Plus label, it also runs hands-on workshops on site.
Open all year round, except some public holidays; check before you come: opening days vary, with more in July and August. No animals allowed.
Grottes du Régulus
Meschers-sur-Gironde
Troglodyte caves carved into the limestone cliff above the Gironde estuary, which served as a refuge for Protestants and later as dwellings in the 19th century. Self-guided or guided visits depending on the time of year, with activity games for children and a treasure trail for groups of 3- to 12-year-olds.
From April to 11 November, daily. Dogs allowed on a short lead, except during guided tours.
Espace aquatique de la Lande
Saujon
Swimming pool of the Royan Atlantique conurbation, with a 25 m indoor pool and a paddling pool; in summer, the glass frontage opens onto two outdoor pools.
Open all year round, except on most public holidays; outdoor pools in summer. Opening hours vary through the year. No animals allowed.
Parc animalier de la Ferme de Magné
Sainte-Gemme
Animal park of around 7 hectares beside the D728: wallabies, camels, a dromedary, ostriches, zebus, raccoons, fallow deer and farm animals, with fairground rides, pony rides and pedal karts. Fishing ponds complete the site.
From early February to late November; daily during the French school holidays, on certain days only at other times. Dogs not allowed, even on a lead.
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Rochefort, La Rochelle, Saintes
Corderie Royale
Rochefort
On the banks of the Charente, the former naval ropeworks houses the Centre International de la Mer and its exhibitions.
Château de La Roche Courbon
Saint-Porchaire
A château surrounded by formal French gardens, with caves, a prehistory museum and games; the château itself is seen on a guided tour.
February to December
Aquarium de La Rochelle
La Rochelle
Near the Old Port, the aquarium opens every day of the year, all day long: an outing for the whole family, even in the rain.
all year round
Centre historique de Saintes
Saintes
A town with two thousand years of history on the banks of the Charente: a walking route links the Arch of Germanicus, the Gallo-Roman amphitheatre, Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Basilica of Saint-Eutrope and the Abbaye aux Dames, by way of the pedestrianised Rue Alsace-Lorraine and the squares of the old town. The Quai de Verdun, lined with town mansions, runs along the Charente.
All year round
Vieux-Port de La Rochelle et ses tours
La Rochelle
The historic heart of La Rochelle, the Vieux-Port is guarded by its medieval towers: the Tour de la Chaîne and the Tour de la Lanterne are open to visitors, while the Tour Saint-Nicolas is currently closed for works. The quays lead to the Bassin des Chalutiers, where the maritime museum traces the history of the port.
All year round; towers closed on 1 January, 1 May and 25 December; no pets allowed in the towers
Parcours découverte du centre-ville de Rochefort
Rochefort
In this Town of Art and History, an easy discovery trail of about 5 km sets off from the tourist office information point and links the watch turret of the old ramparts, town mansions, the covered market, the Porte de l’Arsenal, the dry docks, the Théâtre de la Coupe d’Or and Place Colbert. The route, which can be downloaded from the tourist office website, also passes the Corderie Royale and the Musée national de la Marine.
All year round
Musée national de la Marine de Rochefort
Rochefort
Housed in the Hôtel de Cheusses, at the heart of the former arsenal commissioned by Louis XIV, the museum tells the story of Rochefort’s naval port through models, tools, paintings and sculptures. Self-guided visit with audio guide (five languages) or guided tour.
From mid-February to early January; closed one day a week, except in July and August.
Pont transbordeur de Rochefort-Martrou et Maison du Transbordeur
Échillais
This transporter bridge links Rochefort and Échillais across the Charente: pedestrians and cyclists cross the river in its suspended gondola. On the Échillais side, the Maison du Transbordeur (free admission) traces the bridge’s history since its construction and presents transporter bridges in France and around the world.
late March to early November, closed in winter; dogs on a lead are allowed at reception, in the gondola and at the Maison du Transbordeur (Toutourisme-certified site)
Maison de Pierre Loti
Rochefort
Reopened after a lengthy restoration, the house of writer and naval officer Pierre Loti can be explored on a guided tour or with an audio guide. A combined ticket with the Musée Hèbre is available.
February to December, closed in January; booking required, online or at the Musée Hèbre reception desk (no bookings by phone or email); the house is not accessible to people with reduced mobility (stairs, narrow corridors)
Musée Hèbre (musée d’art et d’histoire de Rochefort)
Rochefort
Orientalist painting, landscapes and objects from Oceania and Asia brought back by Rochefort’s explorers and naval officers make up this art and history museum, where visits to Pierre Loti’s house are also booked. On the ground floor, the architecture and heritage interpretation centre (free admission) features, among other things, a relief model of the town made in 1835.
February to December, closed in January; check before you visit: opening days vary
Musée de l’Aéronautique navale
Rochefort
Around thirty naval aviation aircraft and helicopters, from the Dewoitine 520 to the Super Frelon, and some 1,500 models, maintained and restored by volunteers from the ANAMAN association on the former Rochefort naval air base. Self-guided visit with audio guide or scheduled guided tour.
Open all year round but only on certain days of the week (days vary with the period): check before you go. Groups by appointment; only small dogs carried in a bag are admitted.
Amphithéâtre gallo-romain de Saintes
Saintes
Built around AD 40-50 in the hollow of a natural valley, the Saintes amphitheatre, probably one of the oldest in Gaul, could hold more than 15,000 spectators. An activity booklet is available for children aged 7 to 12, and guided tours run on certain dates.
February to the first days of January, closed for the rest of January; check before you visit: opening days vary; no dogs (except assistance dogs)
Arc de Germanicus
Saintes
Erected in AD 18-19 at the entrance to the Roman bridge, this double arch was moved in the 19th century and saved from demolition thanks to Victor Hugo and Prosper Mérimée. It stands on Place Bassompierre, on the right bank of the Charente, which is linked to the historic centre by a footbridge.
Free, unrestricted access all year round.
Abbaye aux Dames, la cité musicale
Saintes
The Romanesque abbey church of Sainte-Marie, with its carved façade and pine-cone-shaped bell tower, and the conventual buildings can be visited with a 3D-sound headset, an audio guide or a guide. Now a centre for music, the abbey also offers musical siestas and guided tours for families.
all year except over the Christmas and New Year holidays; check before you visit: opening days vary
Basilique Saint-Eutrope et sa crypte
Saintes
A stop on the Way of St James to Santiago de Compostela, the basilica has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998. Its vast Romanesque crypt, the oldest part of the building, houses the tomb of Saint Eutrope.
Open every day, all year round; free access.
Fort Liédot
Île-d’Aix
On the Île d’Aix, this fort can be visited on your own or on a guided tour, with short themed activities and a permanent exhibition on the history of the construction of Fort Boyard, extended by a play area inspired by the programme’s set. Game challenges are offered for children aged 3 to 12.
April to early November, closed in winter; 30 to 45 minutes’ walk from the island’s harbour, reachable by boat all year round from Fouras; pets allowed
Musées nationaux de l’île d’Aix (musée napoléonien et musée africain)
Île-d’Aix
The house where Napoleon I spent his last days in France before his exile to Saint Helena in 1815 displays furniture, portraits and mementoes of the Emperor. In the same street, the African museum shows the collections assembled by Baron Gourgaud, including dioramas of African wildlife and the dromedary said to have been Bonaparte’s.
all year; check before you visit: opening days vary; a single ticket covers both museums, booking advised; the island is reachable by boat all year round from Fouras (the crossing takes about 20 minutes)
Château de Panloy
Port-d’Envaux
On the banks of the Charente, this château built under Louis XV, still lived in by the same family and with its original furnishings, is visited on a guided tour. Its 7-hectare park, with stables, dovecote and nature trail, can be explored freely, and a treasure hunt in the gardens awaits children.
April to October: daily in July and August, only on certain days in the shoulder seasons. Dogs allowed, according to the tourist office; group rate from 10 people, access and parking for coaches.
Musée maritime de La Rochelle
La Rochelle
On the La Rochelle harbourfront, the museum presents the town’s maritime heritage and a fleet of historic vessels, three of which can be visited on board. During the French school holidays, fun, science-based workshops about the sea are offered for children.
all year; check before you visit: opening days vary; no animals allowed in the museum, even on a lead
Muséum d’histoire naturelle de La Rochelle
La Rochelle
In the heart of La Rochelle, the Muséum displays collections of zoology, ethnology, mineralogy and palaeontology, including an orca skeleton, a dodo and Zarafa the giraffe. An indoor visit, accessible with a pushchair, with downloadable games for exploring as a family.
all year; closed on some days: check before you visit
Musée des Commerces d’autrefois
Rochefort
Across four floors of a former warehouse, the museum recreates life-size shops and trades from the early 20th century (bistro, hatter, grocer’s, butcher’s…), with thousands of advertising items. An indoor visit, with family audio guides available.
Open from February to December; annual closure in January, and closed on 25 December.
Family Fun Park Rochefort
Rochefort
An indoor leisure complex next to the Leclerc shopping centre: 12-lane bowling alley, trampoline park, Kid Park for ages 2–12 and arcade games, with a bar and food on site. Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
all year; closed on some days: check before you visit
Piscine municipale Jean-Langet
Rochefort
A municipal swimming pool with a 25 m indoor lap pool and a learner pool with a large slide; an unheated 50 m outdoor Olympic pool opens in summer. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult in swimwear.
Indoor pools open all year round (annual closure from late December to mid-January, and on some public holidays); outdoor pool open from late June to early September.
Apollo Ciné 8
Rochefort
Eight-screen cinema in Rochefort showing current releases, including films for young audiences; all screens are equipped for audio description.
Open all year round; programme on the cinema’s website or on Allociné.
Le Paléosite
Saint-Césaire
Site devoted to prehistory and to Pierrette, the Neanderthal of Saint-Césaire: museum galleries and an audiovisual trail indoors; reconstructed prehistoric dwellings and animals, and demonstrations (fire-lighting, flint knapping) outdoors. Allow three to four hours; playground, café-restaurant, and workshops and challenges for children during the French school holidays.
April to mid-November; check before you visit: opening days vary; pets allowed
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At sea and on the water
Bateau passeur de la Seudre
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
A small ferry links La Cayenne to La Tremblade in about ten minutes, on foot or by bike: call the skipper to cross.
June to late September
Promenade en mer Tim-Kil
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage (La Cayenne)
From the port of La Cayenne, a catamaran takes you on sea trips; tickets from the red-and-white hut at the end of the harbour.
April to September, depending on the tides
Gap’Océan
Royan
On Royan harbour: boat hire with or without a licence, jet-ski tours, water-skiing, wakeboarding and towed rides.
April to late October
Jet Alizé
Les Mathes (La Palmyre)
At La Palmyre harbour, jet-ski tours, including a trip to the Bonne Anse bay that also runs outside the main season.
April to October
Centre Nautique et de Plein Air du Bassin de Marennes (CNPA)
Bourcefranc-le-Chapus
The Marennes basin sailing club: catamaran, Optimist dinghies and paddleboarding, with courses for children and adults in the holidays.
March to November
Island Kayak Oléron
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
Kayak outings from Saint-Trojan harbour, with times set by the tide.
mid-March to mid-November
Kayak & Nature en Seudre
Mornac-sur-Seudre
A kayak club on Mornac harbour: summer hire and trips on the Seudre according to the tides, booked by phone.
April to October, depending on the tides
Les Croisières Oléronaises
Saint-Georges-d’Oléron (Boyardville)
From Boyardville: a guided trip around Fort Boyard, a stop on the Île d’Aix or a sunset cruise; dogs can come too.
April to late October
Compagnie Inter-Îles
Saint-Georges-d’Oléron (Boyardville)
Cruises to Fort Boyard and the Île d’Aix from Boyardville, La Rochelle, Rochefort or Fouras, plus crossings between the islands.
April to early November
Croisières Alizé
La Tremblade
Fort Boyard trips and stops on the Île d’Aix from La Tremblade or Fouras, and from Le Chapus in July and August; dogs welcome.
April to September (Le Chapus in July and August)
Boyard Croisière
Fouras-les-Bains
From Port Sud in Fouras, the sailing catamaran Rêvolt’ (electric motor, up to 30 passengers) takes you around Fort Boyard, with views of Fort Enet and Île d’Aix, while the crew provides commentary on the history of the forts. The company also offers sunset aperitif trips and private hire of the boat.
From 1 May to 30 September; departures depend on the tides; book via the online ticket office.
Saint-Denis Croisières – catamaran Picot des Îles
Saint-Denis-d’Oléron
Departing from the marina at Saint-Denis-d’Oléron, the catamaran Picot des Îles (146 passengers) offers a tour of Fort Boyard with commentary, by day or at sunset, a stop on Île d’Aix and crossings to La Rochelle. Dogs are allowed on a lead, for a supplement.
Seasonal; departures depend on the tides; timetable and booking on the company’s website or at the harbour ticket office, next to the harbour master’s office.
Catamarans Tepee – Boyardvoile
Saint-Georges-d’Oléron
From Boyardville harbour, the sailing catamaran Tepee (30 passengers) offers trips around Fort Boyard, a day stopover on Île d’Aix and sunset aperitif trips. There is a dedicated area on board for young children, who can take part in the manoeuvres.
From April to November, several departures a day in season; booking required by phone or at the Boyard-Voile hut on Boyardville harbour.
Canopée Voile – balades en catamaran
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
90-minute sailing catamaran trips (up to 12 people) in the southern part of the Coureau d’Oléron, leaving from Gatseau beach, where the skipper picks passengers up by inflatable boat; daytime, aperitif or sunset options. A tasting trip with oysters and local wines and private hire of the boat are available on request.
Departures depend on the tides; available dates on the booking page or by phone.
La Jeannette – sorties en pinasse
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
A former wooden Charente pinasse once used for mussel and oyster farming, La Jeannette takes up to 12 passengers on a trip of about 2 to 2½ hours in the southern strait, among the oyster beds, the Oléron bridge, Fort Louvois and the Seudre, depending on the tide. Boarding is from a beach near Gatseau, after a short walk through the forest, aboard a rigid-inflatable tender.
April to the end of September; departures depend on the tides, booking required (preferably by phone).
Bulle d’O – voile accessible
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
Hands-on trips on a sailing catamaran (6 passengers maximum), designed to welcome people with disabilities too, passing under the Oléron bridge and taking in the forts of the Charente archipelago. Passengers aged 7 and over can hoist the sails and take the helm.
Departures from Saint-Trojan-les-Bains depend on the tides, booking by phone or text message; opening season and accessibility arrangements to be confirmed with the skipper.
Promenade en mer du Château-d’Oléron
Le Château-d’Oléron
A guided boat trip of about an hour from the harbour jetty below the citadel, focusing on oyster farming and the history of the basin: oyster beds, Fort Louvois, passing under the Oléron bridge and back past the citadel. Pets and pushchairs are allowed on board.
April to the end of September; departures depend on the tides, tickets on site, no booking.
Seudre Croisières – L’Aigrette II
Mornac-sur-Seudre
Aboard the small boat L’Aigrette II, a guided return trip of about an hour between Mornac-sur-Seudre and L’Éguille, exploring the marshes of the Hauts de Seudre. On some evenings, depending on the tide, sunset trips and cruises with a seafood platter are offered.
April to September; departures depend on the tides, booking recommended (online, at the harbour ticket office or at tourist offices).
Promenades en mer La Bohème (départ de Meschers)
Meschers-sur-Gironde
A non-stop guided trip of about an hour aboard a La Bohème launch from Meschers harbour, along the cliffs and troglodyte caves to Talmont and its Sainte-Radegonde church, at the mouth of the estuary. Pets are allowed.
April to early November; departures depend on the tides, online booking.
Croisières Côte de Beauté
Meschers-sur-Gironde
A 12-seat RIB departing from Meschers harbour: trips along the cliffs and caves, towards Talmont or at sunset, and sea-fishing outings with equipment provided. Pets are allowed.
April to October; times depend on the tide and weather, tickets at the grey kiosk in the harbour or booking by phone.
Croisières Navipromer
La Rochelle
From La Rochelle’s Old Port (cours des Dames), this family-run company offers trips to see Fort Boyard, a stop on the Île d’Aix with a circuit around the fort, and an evening cruise in the bay. Pets are welcome on board; dogs must be kept on a lead.
Departures for much of the year, including some winter months, according to the timetable published on their website; booking recommended.
Kapalouest – catamaran à voile vers Fort Boyard
La Rochelle
Sailing trips from the pontoon at the foot of the Michel-Crépeau media library in La Rochelle, aboard 30-passenger catamarans; the ‘Après-midi aventure’ heads for Fort Boyard and sails close to it if the wind allows. You can picnic on board, and calm pets are accepted if declared when booking.
From the February school holidays to the All Saints’ holidays, daily in July and August; online booking.
Pêche en mer L’Out-Rage
Saint-Denis-d’Oléron
Sea-fishing trips with L’Out-Rage from the marina at Saint-Denis-d’Oléron: bait fishing near the rocks of the Pertuis d’Antioche, lure fishing over wrecks and rocky outcrops off the tip of the island, or tuna fishing out at sea. Groups can also be picked up at the port of La Pallice, in La Rochelle.
All year round, by reservation.
Marc Rubio – guide et moniteur de pêche
Royan
A state-qualified lure-fishing instructor and guide, Marc Rubio takes clients out in a 7-metre RIB from the port of Royan towards Cordouan, the Gironde estuary and the Pertuis Charentais; some trips leave from La Rochelle. Fishing tackle can be lent if requested when booking, and pets are not accepted.
Roughly April to the end of October, by reservation and weather permitting.
Oléron Char à Voile
Le Grand-Village-Plage
Land-yachting school founded in 1997 and based in Le Grand-Village-Plage, offering supervised 90-minute sessions from age 10 on the long beach in the south of the Île d’Oléron. Packages are available for groups of children and adults.
All year round, by reservation; the meeting point is given when you book.
Kabanasurf – école de surf
Le Grand-Village-Plage
Surf school on the Plage de la Giraudière in Le Grand-Village-Plage, founded in 1995 and recognised as an École Française de Surf since 2002: small-group lessons for all levels, for children from age 6, teenagers and adults. Surfboard, bodyboard and wetsuit hire.
April to early November; outside July and August, it is best to call or book before coming.
Oléron Surf Club
Dolus-d’Oléron
A non-profit club accredited by the French Surfing Federation, based on Vert-Bois beach, offering lessons and courses for children and adults of all levels, with qualified instructors. Equipment is provided during lessons and the club holds the Handi Surf label.
All year round.
École de Surf de la Côte Sauvage (ESCS)
Les Mathes (La Palmyre)
Based in La Palmyre since 2003 and holding the École française de surf quality label, the school runs group lessons by level on the Côte Sauvage, from age 7. It also hires out surfing equipment (boards and wetsuits).
April to autumn (season ends in late October or November, to be checked); booking required.
École de Surf Arumaa
Royan (Pontaillac)
Surf lessons and courses suited to every level, led by a team of state-qualified instructors, on the beaches of Pontaillac, Saint-Palais-sur-Mer or the Côte Sauvage depending on sea conditions. Pets are not allowed.
April to early November.
Centre Nautique Charline Picon
La Tremblade (Ronce-les-Bains)
In Ronce-les-Bains, on sheltered water facing the Île d’Oléron, the sailing centre welcomes children from age 4 (‘jardin des mers’ water discovery, Optimist, then catamaran and windsurfing) and adults. It also hires out kayaks, paddleboards, catamarans and windsurf boards.
all year; check before you visit: opening days vary; hire depends on the tides
Location de bateaux – Chantier Naval La Perrotine (CNP)
Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron (La Perrotine)
At Boyardville harbour, in the Perrotine channel and a few minutes from Fort Boyard, the CNP boatyard hires out RIBs and motorboats by the half-day or full day, for a family outing, fishing or a trip to the Île d’Aix. A boating licence is required.
All year round; departures and returns depend on the tides; boating licence required.
Visite ostréicole « Le Banc d’Aline »
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
Oyster farmers and refiners, Le Banc d’Aline opens its hut by the oyster ponds (claires) in Marennes for a tour of the farm explaining how oysters are raised, from birth to plate. The tour can be followed by a tasting, and oysters can be bought directly at the hut.
Guided tours only at certain times of year, booking required (through the Île d’Oléron Marennes tourist office ticket desk); check dates before visiting.
Huîtres Geay – visite et dégustation
La Tremblade
A family oyster-farming business for five generations, offering a tour of its premises in La Tremblade and an oyster tasting; the site is wheelchair accessible. Pets are not allowed.
Tours on weekdays only (closed at weekends), online booking available; check the periods with the business.
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Nature, walks and rides, golf and wellness
Maison de Broue (marais de Brouage)
Saint-Sornin
At the foot of the Broue tower, this interpretation centre explains life in the Brouage marshes, with nature activities in summer.
June to September, at weekends
Réserve naturelle de Moëze-Oléron
Saint-Froult
A bird reserve run by the LPO, with a trail and an observation hide; guided outings all year, booking required.
outings all year; visitor centre in summer and September
Golf de Royan
Saint-Palais-sur-Mer
An 18-hole course in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer, with a reception open daily and a restaurant open all year.
all year round
Golf Bluegreen Rochefort Océan
Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée
A Bluegreen golf club between Rochefort and Fouras, with a 9-hole and an 18-hole course.
Golf de Saintes (Golf Louis Rouyer-Guillet)
Fontcouverte
An 18-hole course on the edge of Saintes, with a driving range, putting green and pro shop.
Golf d’Oléron
Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron
The Île d’Oléron golf course at La Vieille Perrotine, near Boyardville: a round between two beach days.
Bel Hôtel Oléron Thalasso & Spa – MGallery
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
On Gatseau beach, the former Thalassa Sea & Spa, now the Bel Hôtel (MGallery), offers thalassotherapy treatments, a spa and a pool.
Les Thermes de Rochefort
Rochefort
A spa resort in central Rochefort, which also offers a wellness programme alongside its medical cures.
mid-February to early December
Les Thermes de Saujon
Saujon
The Saujon spa, in the Parc des Chalets, welcomes visitors all year except the first fortnight of January.
all year except early January
Île Madame et la passe aux Bœufs
Port-des-Barques
A 70-hectare island at the mouth of the Charente, linked to Port-des-Barques by the Passe aux Bœufs, a natural causeway uncovered only at low tide: check the crossing times and wear shoes that can cope with seawater. On the island: the Croix des Galets, a fort, marshes and, from the Passe aux Filles, a view of Fort Boyard.
All year round, at low tide only; fort open to visitors from June to September, depending on the tides
Circuits pédestres « Côté Saint-Just » et « Côté Luzac »
Saint-Just-Luzac
Two short, very easy loops listed by the tourist office, starting from the villages of Saint-Just (about 5 km) and Luzac (about 4.5 km): a Gothic church and old manor houses on the Saint-Just side, a former Protestant church and old port on the Luzac side, then small paths through woodland and the Brouage and Seudre marshes, frequented by many birds. Routes available as GPX files and on the Loopi app.
All year round, free access; dogs allowed.
Les Chemins de la Seudre
Estuaire de la Seudre
A network of around a hundred kilometres of waymarked trails, on foot or by bike, on both banks of the Seudre estuary, a designated natural area of ecological interest (ZNIEFF): oyster ports, marshes, the Moulin des Loges at Saint-Just-Luzac and the village of Mornac-sur-Seudre. The La Tremblade – Mornac section (hybrid-bike route no. 9, about 30 km) is described as suitable for beginners.
All year round, free access; in season, a small ferry lets you cross the Seudre between Marennes and La Tremblade.
La Vélodyssée dans le bassin de Marennes
De Rochefort à Royan
The Atlantic cycle route runs through the area: from Rochefort, a greenway follows the canal through the marshes to Hiers-Brouage before reaching Marennes; heading south, it continues to Ronce-les-Bains, then follows a continuous cycle path through the Forêt de la Coubre to La Palmyre, before running along the coast to Royan. The Marennes – Royan stage is rated ‘family’ (take care crossing the Seudre bridge), the Rochefort – Marennes stage ‘I’m used to it’.
All year round; in the marshes, a few unsurfaced sections are tricky in wet weather. In summer, a small ferry lets you avoid the Seudre bridge.
Réseau cyclable de l’île d’Oléron et du bassin de Marennes
Île d’Oléron et bassin de Marennes
The Île d’Oléron and the Marennes basin have nearly 160 km of very flat cycle routes, suitable for the whole family, through marshes, forests and along the seafront, with many picnic areas; a classic route leads to the Chassiron lighthouse, at the northern tip of the island. The Loopi app helps you plan your journeys and offers themed routes.
All year round.
La Clinique du Vélo (location de vélos)
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
Bike hire and repair shop with the Accueil Vélo label in the centre of Marennes, a few minutes’ drive from the estate: adult and children’s bikes, e-bikes, hybrids, mountain bikes and cargo bikes, with helmets, trailers and child seats. Delivery to and collection from your accommodation available.
all year; fewer opening days out of season, more in July and August
La Manade – Le marais de Brouage à vélo
Beaugeay
A Camargue horse farm that hires out standard bikes, e-bikes and children’s bikes (trailers and baby seats available) for an easy circuit of around ten kilometres through the Brouage marshes, with a map and audio commentary on the wildlife, plants and horse breeding; the return leg passes through the village of Brouage. La Manade also offers horse rides and horse-drawn carriage rides in the marshes.
April to November, half-day or full-day hire, booking by phone.
Tèrra Aventura à vélo « Moulinez Marais ! »
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
A family treasure hunt by bike, about 15 km long, starting from Marennes beach and running between the beach and the marshes, guided by the Tèrra Aventura app (riddles, a final cache to find). Other Tèrra Aventura trails can be done in Brouage (on foot) and in Marennes town centre.
All year round; smartphone or GPS required; bike not provided (bike hire available in Marennes); pets allowed.
Cabane de la Craie (« Le marais de Brouage à l’abri ! »)
Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
A restored former shelter in the heart of the Brouage marshes, between the citadel and the Tour de Broue, set up for cyclists and walkers. It houses a small exhibition, renewed each year, on the history of the marsh and its huts (topographic map, photos, a mural of the fauna and flora).
All year round, every day, self-guided visit; pets allowed.
Site ostréicole et naturel de Daire
Bourcefranc-le-Chapus
A typical oyster-farming site of the Marennes-Oléron basin: oyster ponds (claires), wooden huts on stilts, oyster beds, holding tanks, flat-bottomed barges and pinnaces. Once a loading point for salt, the Rocher de Daire can be explored on foot or by bike to watch the oyster farmers at work and, depending on the tides, to look out over the Oléron coast from the Pointe des Chardons.
All year round, free access; plan your walk around the tides.
Les saloches de Nieulle et le chemin de Port Paradis
Nieulle-sur-Seudre
A village set on the Seudre marshes, its character defined by its ’saloches’, small rubble-stone turrets shaped like artillery shells. A path leads to the small oyster port of Port Paradis and its handful of huts along the Recoulaine channel, for a walk among the oyster ponds.
All year round, free access.
Forêt domaniale de la Coubre
La Tremblade, Les Mathes
The largest state forest in Charente-Maritime, between Ronce-les-Bains and La Palmyre: maritime pines, holm oaks, red deer, roe deer and wild boar. Waymarked trails suited to beginners (including the 4 Fontaines trail and its viewpoint at the Tour du Gardour) and the La Vélodyssée cycle path through the forest.
All year round, free access.
Baie de Bonne Anse
Les Mathes (La Palmyre)
A bay of more than 700 ha that a sandspit over 5 km long is gradually closing off, designated a Natura 2000 site and part of the Gironde Estuary and Pertuis Sea Marine Nature Park. In winter it hosts large gatherings of seabirds and coastal birds.
All year round, free access; birdwatching mainly in winter; no lifeguards on the beach and access to the dunes prohibited; dogs allowed on the beach between the Chemin du Corsaire and the La Coubre lighthouse.
Forêt domaniale de Saint-Trojan
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
Oléron’s largest forest, nearly 2,000 ha planted mainly with maritime pines to stabilise the dunes and managed by the French national forestry office (ONF): waymarked trails including family routes of about 2 to 4 km, a fitness trail at Vert-Bois and cycle paths to the Grande Plage, Gatseau, Le Grand-Village-Plage and the Port des Salines.
All year round, free access; pets allowed in the forest.
Forêt des Saumonards
Saint-Georges-d’Oléron
Nearly 700 ha of dunes wooded with maritime pines and holm oaks on Oléron’s east coast, between Boyardville and Foulerot, with many waymarked trails for walking, cycling and horse riding, almost all of them leading to the beaches, a fitness trail and views of Fort Boyard and the Île d’Aix.
All year round, free access; pets allowed.
Le Chemin d’Oléron
Île d’Oléron
A walking route of about 105 km around the island, through ocean, marshland and forest, offered in five stages: from the viaduct to Boyardville, then Saint-Denis-d’Oléron, Domino, Le Grand-Village-Plage, and back to the viaduct via Gatseau and Saint-Trojan. Now a GR de Pays, it has seen its yellow waymarking replaced with yellow-and-red waymarking; a map and a GPX track are available from the tourist office.
all year; recommended from February to May and from September to November; dogs’ access to the beaches restricted in season; some beaches cannot be reached at high tide (check the tide times)
Station de lagunage de Rochefort
Rochefort
On the banks of the Charente, south of Rochefort, the lagoon ponds where the town’s wastewater is treated attract many waterbirds all year round. An outdoor bird hide is freely accessible; the inside of the site can be explored on guided tours, with binoculars on loan.
outdoor bird hide open all year; guided tours on set dates according to an annual programme, booking required with the Espace Nature (LPO)
La Cabane de Moins
Breuil-Magné
A 153-hectare reserve of open water and wet meadows north of Rochefort, managed by the Fédération des chasseurs de Charente-Maritime, with an interpretation trail dotted with bird hides: shelducks, ducks, great egrets and a more elusive otter. Self-guided visits, nature activities open to children, and guided tours for groups on request.
February to October (the reserve is closed in winter, and on 1 May and 14 July); opening days vary with the time of year, so check before you come; dogs on a lead are allowed.
Réserve naturelle nationale de la baie et du marais d’Yves
Yves
A nature reserve managed by the LPO between Rochefort and Châtelaillon-Plage. Its mudflats, dunes, lagoon, reed beds and wet meadows offer refuge to migrating birds: geese, ducks, herons and small waders follow one another through the seasons. The reserve can only be visited on a guided tour (birds, plants, landscapes), with ‘junior safari’ outings for children.
All year round, on guided tours only, booked through the Châtelaillon-Plage tourist office. The tour programme changes while work on the sea wall is under way. No dogs in the reserve.
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Places checked on October 29, 2026