Built on a sandy shoal in the 19th century, Fort Boyard was intended to protect the Rochefort arsenal. After more than 60 years of construction, the artillery evolved, and the fort became useless from a military perspective. Listed as a "Historic Monument", Fort Boyard is known throughout the world thanks to the TV game show, broadcast in more than 30 countries. Get up close and personal with this must-see monument in Charente-Maritime, during a sea trip.
You won't have time
To be bored on the island of Oléron
Whether you are a seasoned stroller or a casual walker, from the Hôtel le Vert Bois all the most Oléron paths are open to you!
From our hotel 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 unmissable landscapes of Charente-Maritime and more particularly of the island of Oléron.
We are passionate about our profession and our island, we will be able to accompany you in the different aspects of your stay to offer you activities, walks and restaurants. To explore our wonderful island, rent a bike 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-coloured trawlers, the meticulously choreographed boats and the incessant bustle on the quays, perfectly sum up the port of La Cotinière. When the trawlers return, 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 a terrace, on the seafront, or take part in the many activities offered all year round.
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 is tasked with guiding sailors to enter the waters of the 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 panorama at 360°. From your perch, you will observe the coast of La Rochelle, the island of Aix, the ocean or even the island of Ré.
At the heart of the island's traditions Salt marshes
The harvesting of salt is a tradition on the island of Oléron. Salt cultivation experienced a strong boom before the 19th century. Today, the techniques are practically the same as before. During a visit, discover the profession of salt worker. For an amazing visit to the salt marshes, you can discover the beauty of these landscapes during a paddle session, for young and old, for beginners and experienced.
Discovering oyster farming The Oyster Route
This road allows you to follow the coast of the island and discover the landscapes shaped by oyster farming. It extends from Boyardville to 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’Huître, an unmissable place.
At the very south of the island Saint-Trojan-les-Bains
To immerse yourself in the heart of the island's culture, in the typical Oléron atmosphere, 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 kilometers from your hotel near the beaches of the island of Oléron. Relax on the fine sandy beaches, lined with the typical colorful villas of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains.
Fort Boyard's little brother Fort Louvois
This 17th century maritime fort is considered the little brother of Fort Boyard. It was built between the island of Oléron and the Marennes basin in Bourcefranc-le-Chapus. During a guided or self-guided tour, discover a unique architecture: the keep, the barracks, the food hall or the powder magazine. This unusual visit can be done with family, friends or as a couple during the fort's opening season, from the beginning of April to the beginning of November.
The kingdom of pedestrians and cyclists The island of Aix
This island is only accessible by sea. 3 km long, you can go around the island in two hours. The island of Aix is preserved and keeps prestigious vestiges of the remarkable visit of the Emperor Napoleon in 1815. You can discover: Fort Liédot, Place d'Austerlitz or even Rue Napoléon. Make a stopover on this extraordinary and timeless island, by walking the "customs officers' path", a 7 km path, along the coast.