Nestled off the Atlantic coast of France, l'île d'Oléron is a true summer paradise. With its pristine beaches, wild landscapes, and charming colourful villages, it has become one of the most popular destinations for both French and international tourists seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling cities. Let's explore together what makes l'île d'Oléron a perfect summer getaway.
How to access the island?
L’Ile d'Oléron is the largest island on the Atlantic coast of France and is located in the Charente-Maritime department in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge from Bourcefranc, so it's easily accessible by car or public transport. The island is also accessible by boat from La Rochelle. If you have the opportunity to go there by boat, we recommend you take it by sunset to enjoy the most magical crossing. Its proximity to major cities such as Bordeaux and La Rochelle makes it easy for tourists to add this destination to their road trips. Moreover, the region is directly connected to l’Ile d’Aix and l’Ile de Ré, which ensures plenty of activities and discoveries for your holidays!
A Rich History and vibrant culture
In addition to its natural charms, l’Ile d'Oléron has a rich historical and cultural heritage. There are several charming villages on the island, each with its own unique character and picturesque architecture. Explore the narrow streets of Saint-Pierre-d'Oleron, the island's capital, with its colourful houses, bustling market square, and lively city centre. When speaking about this island, the most significant sign of its past is its castle and fortifications overhanging the sea. Therefore, when visiting l’Ile d’Oléron, do not miss the stunning Oléron Castle, a fortified castle with a rich history dating back to the 17th century that is nowadays a museum containing art exhibitions. L’Ile d’Aix, neighbour to l’Ile d’Oléron, is also a place rich in history as it houses the retreat house of Napoléon. Moreover, the iconic Fort Boyard, a prison in the past and the place of a renowned game show nowadays, is visible from the island. You can even go there on a guided tour by boat. Given its natural location, the island’s culture is based on exploiting of the sea, especially the salt. Thus, you can travel through roads displaying numerous traditional salt marshes and find many little shops selling this authentic and local product.
Beautiful beaches and landscapes
A few Wild beaches
One of the main attractions of l’Ile d'Oléron is its stunning coastline. The island has over 90 kilometres of sandy beaches surrounded by dunes and pine forests. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to relax or want to enjoy a variety of water activities such as swimming, sunbathing or surfing, l’Ile d'Oléron has you covered. Amazing beaches include Plage des Saumonards, La Rémigeasse and Plage de Vert-Bois, each with its own atmosphere and natural beauty. This island’s nature is well preserved and offers breathtaking views such as natural and wild beaches. If you are looking for such a place, we recommend you La Nouette Beach. This beach is accessible after a 10 minutes walk through the woods. Moreover, Fort Boyard is visible from this beach and other beaches in the area of Boyardville. Another beautiful beach that you should visit is the beach of Saint-Trojan les bains. It is situated on the south peak of the island, and it is accessible with a colourful train through a charming stroll along the natural bay.
A Lively port area
The port areas exude an irresistible and captivating liveliness for all those who venture there. As one stroll along the vibrant waterfront, the air becomes infused with the salty scent of the sea while you can hear the symphony of seagulls' calls. Colourful fishing boats float all over the turquoise waters. Charming cafes, bistros, crêperies and artisanal ice cream makers line the bustling streets. Spend your day in one of those places like La Cotinière or the port of Saint-Denis d’Oléron. You can also find typical restaurants where you can savour the region's delectable seafood delicacies. The vibrant atmosphere, blending maritime charm and authentic local culture, ensures that l'Ile d'Oléron's port areas remain an enchanting destination for those seeking a taste of coastal beauty and the French Art de Vivre.
The salt marshes
The salt marshes unfurl like a tapestry of natural wonder. They form a breathtaking landscape that stretches across La route des marais salants. These marshes, meticulously nurtured by nature, hold within their embrace a delicate ecosystem that contrasts with the colourful cabin shops containing the original works of local artists and the artisanal products of craftspersons. Local salt farmers, known as "sauniers," diligently tend to the marshes, skillfully cultivating the precious salt that has become synonymous with the region. Exploring the salt marshes of l'Ile d'Oléron is to embark on an immersing journey in the serenity of untouched landscapes where the bridge with humankind is symbolically created through arts and colours.
The Culinary Specialties
No visit to l'Ile d'Oléron would be complete without indulging in its exquisite culinary offerings that contribute to the marvels of French gastronomy.
Its salted delicacies
Mussels
Cooked mussels are probably the most iconic dish of the Charente-Maritime region, with many unique recipes. The classic one, the one you should absolutely try, is the “moules marinières”: the mussels are cooked with white wine, butter, shallots, parsley, salt and pepper and served with french fries. However, if you feel adventurous, you can taste the “moules au Roquefort”: those are cooked with butter, white wine and a lot of Roquefort cheese, the taste is intense and unique. Among other renowned mussels flavours, you can try the “moules au curry” cooked with and the “ moules paysannes” cooked with bacon strips and mushrooms. If you go there, we recommend you try A la pêche aux Moules restaurant for delicious mussels and a charming view.
Oysters
The island is famous for its delicious seafood, particularly oysters. You should visit the charming oyster-farming villages of Le Château-d'Oléron and La Baudissière, where you can savour freshly caught oysters and other seafood delicacies. One of the most famous oyster brands in Charente-Maritime is Gillardeau. In this region, oysters are, at the same time, an everyday and a luxury product. You can find oysters in local markets, and in restaurants directly from the producers. Still, the nicest experience to try oysters is probably to order them in an oyster bar with a glass of pineau, advice from an expert and a splendid view. Every type of oyster has its unique flavour; if you wish to differentiate them, come to l’Ile d’Oléron to become an expert!
Pineau
The pineau is a wine typical of the Charente-Maritime region. You can find many sorts of pineau: black, white, rosé, red and gray. This wine is served in most restaurants of l’Ile d’Oléron and is ideal to accompany seafood. Many local producers sell great pineau on the island, like Maxime Pinard vineyard.
Salt
The salt culture is hugely important in l’ile d’Oléron as many of its landscapes are filled with salt marshes. You can buy it directly from the producers in a salt marsh or you can find different varieties of it, sometimes mixed with spices to accompany fish dishes, in artisanal cabin shops like in Le Château d’Oléron. We also recommend you try the artisanal salted caramel if you go to one of those shops.
Its sweet delicacies
La Galette Charentaise
Made from butter, sugar, wheat, eggs, salt and Cognac, this simple and authentic dessert is typical of the region. You can find it in most bakeries and markets. Many flavours exist, like raspberry, prune and apricot.
Le Tourteau au fromage Charentais
This soft and round cake is made from fresh goat's cheese and has a distinctive appearance because of its burnt top. Although its taste is sweet and delicate, le Tourteau Charentais is often eaten as a starter. As simple as it may seem, this cake is an unmissable classic of the Charentaise cuisine!
Le Jésuite
The Jésuite is a delicious and generous triangular, flaky pastry filled with frangipane cream and topped with sliced almonds and powdered sugar or meringue. It can be found in most bakeries in l’Ile d’Oléron, for example, in Boudon in Saint-Pierre d’Oléron.
To taste those desserts, we recommend you to try Au puits d’Amour bakery
What you can find on local markets
Local markets also offer a variety of regional products, including goat cheese, honey, charcuterie, artisanal soap made from donkey milk and many other flavourful delicacies and authentic products…
Enjoy the fresh air
For those looking for outdoor adventure, l’Ile d'Oléron offers several options. The island's varied landscape is ideal for cycling, with numerous cycle paths crisscrossing the forest and coast. Nature lovers can explore the stunning Moëze-Oléron Natural Reserve, a protected area known for its birds and unique ecosystems. The island also offers sailing, kayaking and fishing for water sports enthusiasts. Basically, you do not necessarily need a car to discover this island. Indeed, if you wish to enjoy its landscapes and charming villages as much as possible, you should opt for cycling and walking.
L'île d'Oléron, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse activities, offers a perfect summer getaway. Whether you seek relaxation on pristine beaches, explore charming villages, or indulge in exquisite cuisine, this island promises an unforgettable experience. So, if you do not know where to go next summer, follow Best of France facebook page to see more French destinations and let l'île d'Oléron become your new summer sanctuary!
