Top 5 things to do at Château d’Oléron
The historic capital of the island, Château d’Oléron attracts many tourists. Its rich historical heritage, its magnificently preserved citadel and its oyster-farming port surrounded by designer huts make this village an authentic and original place on
1. Visit the Château-d’Oléron citadel
The Château-d’Oléron citadel, which is freely accessible all year round, is the most visited historic monument on the island of Oléron. Built on the orders of
During the school vacations, take advantage of guided tours by miniature train and theatrical evening visits to the heart of the medieval fortifications. Discover the fortified enclosure, arsenal buildings, powder magazine and bastions. The 2.5 km “Promenade des Remparts” offers beautiful views of the oyster port, Ile d’Aix, Fort Louvois and Fort Boyard.
2. Stroll along the oyster port and its artists’ huts
The port of Château-d’Oléron, once dedicated to trade and passenger transport, turned to oyster farming in the 19th century, then to yachting with the rise of tourism. The return of the oyster farmers’ tide is one of the best times to visit the port. Château-d’Oléron is a major transit center for oysters from the Marennes-Oléron basin.
The port of Le port du Château-d’Oléron is also known for its colorful designer huts. Since 2017, the commune has been awarded the “Ville et Métiers d’Art” label.
3. Sailing through history at Chantier naval Robert Léglise
The Chantier naval Robert Léglise is a unique place where old boats are restored by enthusiasts. This century-old shipyard, the last remaining example of wooden shipbuilding on the island, allows visitors to discover the ancestral techniques of marine carpenters. The workshop is open all year round on Wednesday mornings, and from May to September, on Wednesdays and Fridays from 3pm to 6pm. Visits are free of charge.
4. Passing over the Pont Napoléon
2 km from Château d’Oléron, on the Brande channel , this small stone bridge has been a listed historic monument since 1979. Its cobbled deck and unique arch make it a curiosity for walkers. Contrary to its name, it has nothing to do with Napoleon Bonaparte, since it was built in 1767, before the Emperor’s reign. Discover it on the “Route des huîtres”, a picturesque 5 km circuit between the port of Château-d’Oléron and the port of Boyardville.
5. Shopping at Château d’Oléron (the most beautiful market on the island)
In the heart of the old town, the Château d’Oléron market is held under and around the Halles couvertes, one of the oldest in the department. It’s the busiest market on the island of Oléron. Open all year round, Tuesday to Sunday, 7.30am to 1pm, and every day in July and August.
On the menu: oysters, fresh fish, fruit, vegetables, meat, charcuterie, cheeses, bread, pastries, pineau, wine and other local specialties. On the Place de la République, come and meet merchants selling clothes, jewelry, leather goods, shoes, kitchen utensils, hardware…
photo credit: OT IOMN / S.Breffy
