Built on a high sandy bottom in the 19th century, Fort Boyard was to protect the Rochefort arsenal. After more than 60 years of construction, the artillery has evolved, therefore, the fort became useless on the military level. Listed as a "Historic Monument", Fort Boyard is known worldwide thanks to the televised game, broadcast in more than 30 countries. Get as close as possible to this unmissable monument of Charente-Maritime, during a sea trip.
You will not have time
To be bored on the island of Oléron
From our hotel near the beaches on the island of Oléron, you will be ideally positioned to enjoy the joys and beauties of the Luminous Island. Let yourself be enchanted and surprised by the diverse, preserved and essential landscapes of Charente-Maritime and more particularly of the island of Oléron.
We are passionate about our profession and our island, we will accompany you in the different facets of your stay to offer you activities, walks and restaurants. To explore our wonderful island, rent a bicycle and discover the treasures offered by the Atlantic coast.
The stone colossus in the middle of the ocean Fort Boyard
Brightly colored fishing port The Port of Cotinière
The multi-colored trawlers, the millimeter choreography of the boats and the incessant agitation on the quays, perfectly sum up the port of Cotinière. Upon returning from the trawlers, discover a typical Charente-Maritime market, at the auction, with more than 90 species of fish presented. Under the sun of the island of Oléron, stroll through the alleys of this small town, have a coffee on the terrace, on the seafront, or take part in the many activities offered throughout the year.
The “tip of the end of the world” The Chassiron Lighthouse
Located at the highest point of the island of Oléron, on the northern tip, a first building was built in 1685. Now 46 meters high, the Chassiron Lighthouse's mission is to guide sailors for the entry into the waters of Pertuis d'Antioche, dotted with reefs. After climbing the 224 steps of the lighthouse, you will be at the top and you will be able to enjoy an exceptional 360 ° panorama. From your perch, you will observe the Rochelaise coast, the island of Aix, the ocean or the island of Ré.
At the heart of the island's traditions The salt marshes
The salt harvest is a tradition on the island of Oléron. The culture of salt experienced a strong boom before the 19th century. Today, the techniques are practically the same as before. During a visit, discover the job of the salt worker. For an astonishing visit of the salt marshes, you can discover the beauty of these landscapes during a paddle session, for young and old, for beginners and confirmed.
Discovering oyster farming The Oyster Route
This route allows you to follow the coast of the island and discover the landscapes shaped by oyster farming. It stretches from Boyardville to the Château d'Oléron. You will observe the beauties of the island of Oléron, on foot, by bike or by car, between channels, marshes and oyster huts. Linger in front of the oyster beds where you may have the chance to taste the production. End your itinerary with a visit to the Cité de l'Ouître, an essential place.
At the very south of the island Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
To dive into the heart of the island's culture, in the typical atmosphere of Oléron, make a stopover in the picturesque village of St-Trojan-les-Bains. This charming seaside resort is located in the south of the island, 6 km from your hotel near the beaches of Ile d'Oleron. Relax on the sandy beaches, bordered by the colorful villas typical of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains.
Fort Boyard's little brother Fort Louvois
This 17th century maritime fort is considered to be the little brother of Fort Boyard. It was built between the island of Oléron and the Marennes basin in Bourcefranc-le-Chapus. During a visit, commented or free, discover a unique architecture: the dungeon, the barracks, the food hall or the powder magazine. This unusual visit can be carried out with family, friends or as a couple during the opening season of the fort, from the beginning of April to the beginning of November.
The kingdom of pedestrians and cyclists Aix Island
This island is only accessible by sea. 3 km long, you can go around the island in two hours. The Isle of Aix is preserved and preserves prestigious vestiges of the remarkable visit of the Emperor Napoleon in 1815. You can discover there: Fort Liédot, Place d'Austerlitz or even Rue Napoléon. Make a stopover on this unusual and timeless island, crossing the "customs path", 7 km path, along the coast.