Discover the Royannais region on foot
Royan's wide open spaces and Atlantic coastline, alternating between long beaches and limestone cliffs, make it an ideal destination for hikers and walkers. An extensive network of signposted footpaths criss-crosses the Royan area, taking in such varied environments as cliff tops, pine forests and dunes. Here are a few ideas for some of the most beautiful walks in the area. Royan !
From your camping in Royan, Be as close as possible to the footpaths.
The customs path
A must for walkers and holidaymakers alike, the GR4 follows the customs path along the ocean between Royan and Saintes. A simple 3.5 km route to Saint-Palais-sur-Mer offers walkers of all abilities, even young children, a magnificent walk with breathtaking views of the Cordouan lighthouse. The walk also includes typical carrelets, the Terre Nègre lighthouse and unusual geological formations such as the puits de l'Auture and the pont du Diable.
The Coubre forest
A number of signposted routes start from the Grande Côte beach car park, the sandy expanse stretching from the north of Saint-Palais to La Palmyre. The forest circuit is one of the most pleasant walks: 12.5km long, this loop offers a refreshing walk in the shade of the pines of the Coubre forest, just behind the ocean. It's an opportunity to spend around 2? hours walking in a calm and refreshing setting close to Royan.
From Saint-Georges-de-Didonne to Meschers
This is a great loop for walkers: 15 km long, it will take you half a day or a full day if you take the opportunity to visit the Régulus caves or for a stroll through the village of Meschers. The route follows the coastline along the Pointe de Suzac, past the carrelets (small sand dunes) and on to the Meschers caves. The return journey takes you through the centre of Meschers and then through the Suzac forest.