Chateau d'Oleron - history and nature on the west coast of France

The Château d'Oléron is located in the south of the island of Oléron, you will also be seduced by this authentic village which comes alive every morning with its daily market. Don't forget to stop at the artists' and creators' cabins, on the oyster port, a must!

In the footsteps of Vauban

The Château d'Oléron offers a wide architectural, historical and heritage variety. The citadel of Château d'Oléron, a must-visit site for anyone passing through the island of Oléron. Richelieu ordered its construction which began in 1630 on the remains of the old medieval castle.

During the work phase, part of the old town was razed to make way for a new fortified town according to a checkerboard plan around the parade ground. It is an integral part of the network of fortifications scattered along the coastline which protect the Rochefort arsenal in addition to the Brouage salt granary. Bombed on April 17, 1945, the citadel remained abandoned for many years. It was not until the mid-1980s that the city was able to buy this fortification and subsequently restore it. Now completely rehabilitated, the citadel can be visited freely all year round... the opportunity for you to access beautiful views of the oyster port of the Château d'Oléron, the Pertuis Charentais and the bridge of the island of Oléron.... Finally, the powder magazine and the arsenal house temporary exhibitions in summer.

Oyster cabins and artist cabins

Discover a designer village like no other where oyster farmers and creators come together. Around thirty artists and craftsmen welcome you to the heart of the old town, on the oyster farming site in the citadel of Château d'Oléron. These workshops are open all year round and constitute a permanent artistic and tourist activity center.

Don't hesitate to walk along the channels or open the doors of the workshops, you will discover unique worlds, a wide variety of professions and materials and above all enthusiasts with more than one know-how up their sleeve: painting, sculpture, ceramics, cutlery, artistic ironwork, luthier, woodturning, marquetry or illumination...

The natural setting offers a wide variety of landscapes, numerous varied beaches, a forest massif, a marsh area of ​​prime importance with several nature reserves.

The Luminous Island, nautical activities

The island of Oléron is nicknamed the luminous island, it is a wonderful playground for young and old alike with its contrasting beaches, it is possible to practice several types of water activities. A whole range of activities is available to sea enthusiasts: sailing, windsurfing, surfing, sand yachting, kayaking...

Plan your visit to Château d'Oléron

If you plan to visit the Château d'Oléron, it is recommended to allow at least a full day to explore the citadel, the village and the surrounding area. The summer months are the busiest, but spring and fall offer milder temperatures with far fewer crowds and tourists. Don't forget to try the local specialties, such as fresh seafood, which are a real delight.