Situated just a few minutes from La Rochelle, the Ile d'Oléron, nicknamed the Island of Light, is part of the Charente-Maritime region. Visit the island of Oléron, If you're looking for a place to visit, you'll have the chance to admire a rich cultural and gastronomic heritage, as well as magnificent landscapes characterised by fine sandy beaches and wild nature.
The port of La Cotinière
Located in the heart of the village of Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, the port of Cotinière is an essential part of any family holiday on the island. As well as discovering the ballet of boats in the harbour, take a dive into the heart of the fish auction to soak up the local culture. This unusual walk allows you to attend the auction and buy freshly landed products such as lobsters, langoustines, ceteaux and soles. Conclude your discovery of this famous French fishing port with a tasting of mussels and oysters, while enjoying an uninterrupted view of the picturesque buildings lining the harbour. Continue your walk along the wild beach at the heart of the Baie de Brimaudière, in Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, which lies to the north of the fishing port. A must if you want to visit the island of Oléron as it should be.
The Chassiron lighthouse
Just a few minutes' drive from the viaduct, the village of Saint-Denis-D'oléron houses the Chassiron lighthouse. A true emblem of the area with its black and white striped colours, the lighthouse was erected in 1936 and towers 46 m above the ground. According to summer visitors, as well as visiting the lighthouse gardens, climbing the 224 steps is one of the activities not to be missed. After the effort, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the archipelago, the Ile de Ré, the Pertuis d'Antioche, Fort Boyard and the port of Boyardville. Not far from the lighthouse, you can cycle or drive to the Port des Salines with its salt marshes. On the way, stop off at Fort Royer, an oyster-farming site famous for its colourful huts. Then stroll through the village of Brée-les-Bains to discover the Planginot beach.
The citadel of Château-d'Oléron
Another place not to be missed if you want to visit the island of Oléron The citadel. Located 6 km from the salt marshes, the Château-d'Oléron can be reached by car or by bike. A military structure built in 1630, this bastide town to the south-west of Saint Trojan-les-Bains is now an architectural and cultural monument on the Ile d'Oléron. To fully appreciate the attractions of the citadel, treat yourself to a guided tour starting with an entrance under the Royal Gate extended by a standing bridge. Your guide will take you to places undreamt of by the general public before taking you up to a higher level. In fact, the castle offers a number of viewpoints over the Ile d'Oléron bridge, the Château d'Oléron oyster port and the colourful huts housing temporary exhibitions.
Fort Louvois
A maritime fortress dating from the 17th century, the Fort Louvois is distinguished by its location. It stands on a rocky islet facing Bourcefranc-le-Chapus, at the entrance to the Marennes-Oléron basin. Its architecture reflects the medieval style, as evidenced by its keep, moat and drawbridge. Accessible by bike or on foot at low tide, this Oleron heritage site offers an unusual visit. Among the fort's points of interest, explore its museum displaying models, weapons and period uniforms. Continue the adventure by climbing to the top of the keep for a panoramic view of Boyardville, Fort Boyard and the port of Les Salines.
Visit the island of Oléron in Charente-Maritime promises an unforgettable experience, with its historic heritage, oyster-farming sites and beaches. Punctuate your family holiday on the island with a stay at the Océan vacances campsite, renowned for its range of accommodation and services worthy of a Michelin-starred hotel. Our campsite in Saint-Georges-de-Didonne is looking forward to seeing you!