The island of Oléron
What to see on Ile d’Oléron ?
Linked to the mainland by a bridge, Ile d’Oléron is the second largest island of mainland France after Corsica. This article suggests what to see and do on the island on a day trip or during a longer stay. Take part in sporting activities, go sight-seeing or just relax and enjoy the island’s beautiful scenery of dunes, beaches, marshes and pine forests.
Phare de Chassiron lighthouse
The Phare de Chassiron lighthouse is at Saint-Denis-d’Oléron, on the northern tip of the island. It is 46m high and can be seen for up to 52km around. It is painted black and white to distinguish it from the Phare des Baleines on the Ile de Ré. So, to have a wonderful view of its gardens in the shape of a compass rose and of Ile d’Oléron and Fort Boyard all you have to do is climb the 224 steps !
Château d’Oléron
Oyster-farming capital of Ile d’Oléron, this charming picture-postcard village is just made for photographic enthusiasts ! Wander around the colourful oyster huts which have been converted into artist’s studios. A little further on, explore the citadel of Château d’Oléron and admire magnificent views of the sea, Fort Boyard and the village itself.
La Cotinière
The leading fishing port of Charente-Maritime and seventh in the national rankings, La Cotinière is a bustling hive of activity at any time of year. Watch its brightly-coloured fishing boats performing a constant ballet of comings and goings in and out of the harbour and stroll around the narrow harbourside streets with their low fishermen’s cottages bordered with hollyhocks and enjoy the typical Oléron scenery !
Boyardville and Ile d’Aix
It is not hard to guess that Boyardville is directly linked to Fort Boyard which can be seen out at sea halfway between the islands of Aix and Oléron. Boyardville is known for its lovely long fine sandy beach, woodland, harbour and the channel which runs through it. Boat trips run from the harbour to Ile de Ré, La Rochelle, Fort Boyard and Ile d’Aix.
Marennes-Oléron oysters
Marennes-Oléron oysters are one of the stars of local gastronomy and are mostly produced on Ile d’Oléron. Follow the Oyster Trail along the coast by car or bike between Château d’Oléron and Boyardville through unique, unspoilt scenery of channels, huts and oyster beds and visit the oyster farms to taste this delicious local product !
What to do on Ile d’Oléron :
Cycling around Oléron
Numerous kilometres of designated cycle tracks run along the coast, through the marshes and woods ! in addition, the network of cycle routes is extended every year. The Office de Tourisme website features several cycling trails to follow !
Water sports on Ile d’Oléron
Ile d’Oléron is a great place for lots of different water sports including surfing, windsurfing, sand yachting, kayaking, sailing and stand-up paddle boarding. Each beach has its own identity so you can vary your choice of board sports. Waves, wind, long sandy beaches… everything you need for endless fun !
Relaxing on the beaches of Ile d’Oléron
One of the high points of Ile d’Oléron is its many beaches, many of which have Blue-Flag approval for the excellent quality of their water ! Family fun, board sports or just simply relaxing, the beaches of Oléron have something for everyone.
Gîtes de France tip :
Ile d’Oléron is also a great place to dig for cockles, clams, etc ! During spring tides, go down to the shore and have family fun digging for your dinner ! But joking apart, please pay attention as this activity is strictly regulated !
How to get to Ile d’Oléron
By road :
From Bordeaux, Autoroute A10, exit Saintes, then follow Ile d’Oléron
From Nantes, Autoroute A10, exit La Rochelle then follow Marans / La Rochelle / Rochefort / Ile d’Oléron
From Paris, Autoroute A10, exit La Rochelle / Rochefort, then follow Surgères / Rochefort / île d’Oléron.
No toll to pay, this bridge is free !
By air : La Rochelle/Laleu airport
By rail : 3 hours from Paris to Surgères. 2¼ hours from Nantes to Rochefort. 1 hour 50 minutes from Bordeaux to Saintes. In each case, take a bus.
By bus : Transport Nouvelle-Aquitaine : Service number 6, 7 and 8.
By boat : Ferry services from La Rochelle, Bourcefranc, Le Chapus, La Tremblade. "
Our selection of accommodations
Lodging
LE FIEF AUGER
in SAINT PIERRE D'OLERON - Charente-Maritime
Lodging
17G64012
in SAINT GEORGES D'OLERON - Charente-Maritime
