Islands to explore
The Charente-Maritime region is reknowned for the islands which lie just offshore this part of the Atlantic coast. Islands which are prized destinations for holidaymakers looking for an original outing, great beaches and places steeped in history.
Each island has its own special character and all are easily accessible.
Isle of Oléron
Light fantastic
Oleron, also known as The Island of Light', is the largest island lying off the Atlantic coast. Here you'll find great beaches and surfing and sailing conditions as well as variety of landscapes. The microclimate means the island has a rich and diverse fauna and flora and the numerous forests are a haven for nature lovers.
For those interested in history, Oleron has many sites of interest including the Chateau-fort d'Oleron and the Chassiron lighthouse. Offshore of Boyardville lies the famous Fort Boyard.
All-in-all, Oleron is great destination for a family day-out.
Isle of Ré
Glistening villages in the sun
Further north the Isle of Ré is really worth a visit. Acces is easy via the toll-bridge (10€) connecting the island with La Rochelle.
The island is famous for its white houses and coloured shutters, a characteristic of 'Rétien' architecture, as well as the fortifications in Saint Martin du Ré built by Vauban.
The best beaches are in the north west where you'll also find good surf spots.
Isle of Aix
In the footsteps of Napoléon
Aix has many beaches, several creeks and a varying landscape.
There are three forts on the island, testimony to Napoleonic times : Fort de la Rade, Fort de Coudepont and Fort Liedot. You'll also find the Napoleo Museum on the island.
You can walk around the whole island in approximately 2 hours, or choose to do so by bike or on horseback.
Isle Madame
A tiny island
The smallest of the four islands, Madame is only accessible at low-tide via a nautral causeway of sand and 'galets' called the 'Passe aux Beoufs'. The island gives adventurers great views of the neighbouring Aix and Oleron islands.
Photos soon…
