In the heart –or rather, towards the south – of the island, discover one-time marshlands that had become salt marshes and have been transformed into fattening ponds propitious to the ripening of the renowned Marennes-Oléron oysters. Colorful oyster-loaded boats come and go in a sort of seaside ballet punctuated by swelling and receding waves.

The marshlands also feature rich and varied flora and fauna. Nature unlike any other may be discovered by foot, by bike, on horseback! And the island contains 80 km of bicycle paths!

Military and maritime, with the citadel of Oléron Castle and Fort Boyard (yes indeed, that’s the fort known to French TV viewers!). The Oléron patrimony is also composed of numerous Roman churches, typical villages, and harbor-based sites.

On the waterfront, from Saint-Trojan to Chassiron, Oléron features a unique succession of long sand beaches. Beaches bordered by magnificent forests of maritime pines, green oaks and marram grasses. What with the interplay of wind and marsh, the ever-moving sea is alternatively a playground for the young and a recreation area for one and all.

Anybody and everybody can safely use a sailboat, surf a wave and go sand sailing. Back on the continent, the ocean is more restrained, better behaved.

What with its munificent and well-preserved nature, its magnificent fine sand beaches ideally suitable for children, sportsmen and aquatic games, a first-class patrimony, unique gastronomy, and a propitious climate, Oléron « the Luminous » is a truly exceptional land, land of fine living in an exceptional environment.

With its area of 175 km², Oléron is the second largest island in France. Oléron island is linked to the European continent by a 3-km viaduct.

Citadel of Oléron castle

A remarkable fortified structure whose role was to safeguard the mouth of the Charente and the port of Rochefort.

Ground was broken on Cardinal Richelieu’s initiative during the reign of Louis XIII, and from 1630 onwards the citadel was constructed stage by stage, up until completion by the Marquis of Montalembert, some 120 years later. He put the finishing touches on an edifice bringing together beauty, equilibrium, audacity and force.

The citadel hosts several exhibition rooms.

Museum of Oléron island  - Saint-Pierre d'Oléron

The museum of popular arts and traditions presents a 19th-century rural interior, some ancient professions and local history. An excellent introduction as you discover the island.

Maison Paysanne de la Coiffe et du Costume – Grand-Village-Plage

Presentation of the head coverings known as “quich'nottes”), of the island’s traditional costumes, and of a traditional habitat.