La Cotinière, Ile d’Oléron: how to visit this must-see fishing port and enjoy an authentic family experience?
Located on the west coast of the Ile d’Oléron, in Saint Pierre d’Oléron, La Cotinière is famous for its fishing port, which brings the village to life in all seasons. What to see, what to do? Follow our advice for a complete discovery!
The fishing port of La Cotinière: a must-see!
A must-see fishing port! With a fleet of 80 vessels, the port of La Cotinière in Saint Pierre d’Oléron is the #1 artisanal fishing port in Charente-Maritime and the 7th largest fishing port in France. Enjoy the authentic atmosphere of this traditional port: the return of the boats to port and the unloading of the fish to the auction are a sight not to be missed! During the vacations, guided tours are organized to discover the history and evolution of the port of La Cotinière over the centuries, as well as fishing techniques and seafaring trades.
Visit the fish market: an immersion in the heart of the local fishing industry
Once a month, small groups can take part in a guided tour of the fish auction. This experience allows you to better understand the work of fishermen and fishmongers, to discover the fish of our coasts and to attend the daily auction of the local catch. Guided tour at 5:30 a.m. (it’s early, but what a souvenir!). Bring warm clothes and closed shoes. Information: 05 46 85 65 23.
La Cotinière markets: a festival of flavours awaits you!
Just a stone’s throw from the fishing port, the La Cotinière market is held in the village center every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, from 8am to 1pm. From April to the end of September, it becomes a daily event, welcoming market gardeners, oyster farmers, cheese makers, butchers and other local producers.
Victorine market: a seafood lover’s paradise
Located right on the harbor, the Victorine market is the ideal place to find langoustines, oysters, mussels and other shellfish. Opening hours: in season (April 1 – November 11): daily, mornings and afternoons (from 3.30pm). Off-season: Tuesday to Sunday, 4.30 pm to 7 pm.
The night market: a festive atmosphere
From July to August, a night market takes place every evening from 5:30pm to 11:30pm, near the fishing port. Nearly 40 stalls showcase local craftspeople, artists and designers. Concerts and other entertainment punctuate the evening.
La Cotinière beach
Just a stone’s throw from the Cotinière church , an ideal beach for an after-lunch at the port of Cotinière. The air is fresh and the view unobstructed. It’s a great place to have a good time, but not for swimming! Its easy access and peaceful setting make it an ideal place for a fishing session at low tide, much appreciated by children, or to watch the sunset. On the other side of the harbor, between La Cotinière and La Perroche, the beach at Matha is a very pleasant place for children to swim, with small waves. Less crowded than the tourist beaches, its serene atmosphere is a real draw.
Where to eat, drink and shop in La Cotinière?
Along the quay and main thoroughfare, La Cotinière is packed with stores, restaurants and ice cream parlors to make your stroll even more enjoyable. In addition to the traditional souvenirs and beach toys, several boutiques offer clothing in a revisited nautical style. As night falls, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting: the lights come on, music blares from the cafés and bars, and entertainment is in full swing with street shows, a funfair and a night market.
Our favourite summer addresses in La Cotinière :
- Au Plaisir d’offrir: a large 800m2 souvenir store with a wide selection of home decor, marine clothing, miniature boats, magnets, postcards and local products. Prices are reasonable for a tourist destination. Address: 57 rue du Port, 17310 Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron.
- Les tamarins” artisanal ice cream parlour: a veritable Oleron institution for fans of artisanal ice cream. Unusual flavors such as cactus, whisky cream and mandarin-cointreau. Address: 63 rue du Port, 17310 Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron.
- L’Assiette du Capitaine: restaurant with terrace near the port, featuring grilled fish, seafood platters, mouclades and burgers. Bonus: a fine selection of rums. Address: 2 boulevard du Capitaine Leclerc, 17310 Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron.
- La Marine: to round off the evening, this cocktail bar boasts a unique decor. It’s like being in the movie Pirates of the Caribbean. Festive atmosphere with showcases and DJ. 61 rue du Port, 17310 Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron.
The Cotinière funfair: a family outing
A trip to the funfair! On the program: coin-operated machines, peg-catching machines, bumper cars, children’s rides, duck fishing, sweets… Rue des Barraudes, 17310 La Cotinière. Open daily from 4pm to midnight during summer.
Boat cruise from La Cotinière
The port of La Cotinière is also the starting point for boat trips around the Ile d’Oléron. Sail to Ile d’Aix via Pointe de Chassiron, Fort Boyard, Baie de Gatseau or Pertuis de Maumusson. From April to the end of September, up to 5 round trips per day. Further information on the Croisières Oléronaises website.
Campsite near La Cotinière on the Ile d’Oléron
Would you like to discover La Cotinière while enjoying comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Ile d’Oléron? Our 4-star campsite near La Cotinière (15 km) welcomes you to a peaceful, verdant setting. Between swimming, coastal walks and gourmet excursions, enjoy a stay that combines nature, relaxation and discovery. Book your stay near Saint Pierre d’Oléron now: camping-caravanning pitches, eco-lodge tents, mobile homes or chalets, there’s something for everyone! See also: What to see, what to do in Saint Pierre d’Oléron: our must-sees for your vacations!
