You are planning holidays in Charente-Maritime ? Take the time to discover one of the region's most important activities: the’oyster farming. This culture has been preserved for several decades by specialists who make it a point of honour to perpetuating unique know-how. With this in mind, we strongly recommend that you visit the famous Oyster City in Marennes, a must-see site on the Atlantic coast, where you can discover all the secrets of oyster cultivation.
Ideally located, you can book a holiday rental at 4-star campsite in Saint George de Didonne just 45 minutes from Oyster City.
The Cité de l'huître: a place to remember
La Oyster City created in 2006, eis an area covering 2,000 m². Your visit is divided into 4 main sections:
- The green hut This first stop will take you back in time, to a century ago, to watch a film from 1907. This precious document will show you exclusive images of oyster farmers at work.
- The blue hut This second stop invites you to discover all the science behind the world of oyster farming.
- The red hut third stop at the heart of the The Seudre marshes, where you can discover all the secrets of local daily life and oyster farming.
- The yellow hut Last but not least, you'll have the honour of tasting fresh oysters and you can even take note of interesting recipes to make at home.
To invigorate you, the bike ride is sure to do you a world of good. As you walk along the marsh, you'll be struck by the striking beauty of this authentic place.
The various events at the Cité de l'huître
A visit to the Oyster City is synonymous with good times and discovery. The activities on offer are suitable for all ages. During the summer months, there's a wealth of activities to explore.
- The activity «Catching crabs» takes place from Monday to Friday, is a precious moment to share with the whole family. This activity will show you the different techniques for crab fishing.
- The activity «Creative herbarium» is specially designed for children, and takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This activity informs the little ones about the flora of the marsh, giving them the opportunity to preparing a herbarium.
- The workshop «the little scientists» will give you captivating information about the biological cycle of oysters and their specific characteristics. It takes place on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays.
If you are interested in visiting the City of oysters with a touch of humour, don't miss the with Bilout every Monday. Summer is brightened up by the approaching humorous and wacky of this actor.
Geocaching & tasting
The visit to the Oyster City encompasses an activity that will be enjoyed by young and old alike. Visit geocaching is a challenge that involves find 6 caches placed in different parts of the marsh. It's as simple as this: start by download the dedicated application. As you progress on your quest, you will discover interesting information about this unique place.
Once the challenge is over, don't forget to stop off at the restaurant of the Cité de l'huître. A gourmet break is in order with a generous menu. In fact, the Marennes oysters are the star ingredient. But if you're in the mood for something different, you can order a good salad or a hot dish, not forgetting the dessert menu.
Things to know before you visit: practical information
You can visit the Oyster City from April until the All Saints' holiday, since camping Océan Vacances near Royan (open every day during school holidays). Outside the school holidays, visits are from Wednesday to Sunday only and only in weekend in October.
Admission to the City of oysters including access to the huts and activities, and also covers the use of bicycles for outings:
- Adults : 9 euros
- Children (aged 6 to 16) : 5 euros
- Children under 6 : free admission
- Family of 4 : Pass at 23 euros.
- Looking for a job, student or mobility impaired: 7 euros.