Gatseau beach in Saint-Trojan-les-Bains: a hidden gem on the Ile d’Oléron

This wild beach in the south of the island of Oléron will make you forget all the others! Between pine forests and fine sand, a little corner of paradise awaits you: Gatseau beach!

Nestling at the southern tip of the Ile d’Oléron, opposite the Arvert peninsula, Gatseau beach is regularly ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in France. It’s also one of the few south-facing beaches on the Atlantic coast.

Bordered by the national forest of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, this Oleron beach has retained its wild, unspoilt character. It stretches for some 500 meters, in a sheltered bay that has been awarded the Blue Flag since 1998.

A family beach with lifeguards

In July and August, the beach is supervised daily from 11am to 7pm by SNSM lifeguards. Swimming is perfect for children, with a gentle slope and few waves. At high tide, you can walk for quite a distance.

But beware of sea currents! For safe swimming, choose the area marked with red and yellow flags, indicating that the beach is supervised.

Equipment and services

In summer, sanitary facilities are available for your convenience. You’ll also find picnic tables in the shade of the pine trees, and benches to enjoy the view. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, a food-truck offers food and refreshment.

If you’d like to enjoy the beach with your four-legged friend, please note that dogs are prohibited from July 1 to August 31. They are allowed the rest of the year.

How do I get there?

Our campsite on the Ile d’Oléron is located near Gatseau beach, less than 10 minutes by bike (3 kilometers). From Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, turn right on Boulevard de la Plage, follow Avenue des Bris, go straight on Avenue du Débarquement, then turn left.

A small parking lot is available nearby. A path leads to the beach (150 m).

You can also reach the beach by taking the P’tit Train touristique de Saint-Trojan. It stops right next to the beach!

Pointe de Gatseau: an air of the end of the world

Pointe de Gatseau is the southernmost point on the island of Oléron. It faces the Pointe Espagnole and marks the boundary between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pertuis de Maumusson, known for its powerful currents and spectacular eddies.

This wild spot offers exceptional panoramic views of the Arvert peninsula, the seaside resort of Ronce-les-Bains and the 85-metre-high bell tower of Marennes. It’s also a popular spot for cockle fishing and surfcasting.

From the village of Saint-Trojan, a hiking loop takes you through the national forest, Gatseau Bay, the wild coastline and the Maumusson inlet (16 km, approx. 4h30).