What to do on the island of Oleron?
Discover the things to do on the Ile d’Oléron for a great vacation in Charente-Maritime!
Situated on the Atlantic coast, the island of Oléron is the largest of the French islands after Corsica. Accessible by a 3 km bridge from the mainland, it offers a varied landscape of pine forests, salt marshes and sandy beaches.
This diversity of landscapes makes it a popular destination for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
From our campsite on the Ile de Ré, you can reach the Ile d’Oléron by boat (3-hour ferry service) or by car (1h25).
What to do on the island of Oléron: explore the historical and cultural sites
The island of Oléron has a rich heritage to discover. Fort Boyard, famous for its role in maritime history and its TV show, can be admired from a boat trip.
The Château-d’Oléron citadel, built under Richelieu, offers a breathtaking view of the ocean and today houses artisan workshops.
History buffs will also appreciate the Chassiron lighthouse, which, after climbing its 224 steps, offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Atlantic and the Charente coastline.
From one of our mobile home rentals in Charente-Maritime, you’ll have the opportunity to spend a day on this island, which is just as worth a visit as the Ile de Ré.
Dive in
in history
Beaches and activities
With its vast sandy beaches, the island of Oleron is an ideal destination for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.
The Saumonards beach is perfect for a family day out, while the Huttes beach attracts surfing enthusiasts. Sailing and paddleboarding enthusiasts will be delighted by the various spots dotted around the island.
Numerous sailing schools offer introductory and advanced courses, enabling you to enjoy the pleasures of the water to the full.
On the Ile de Ré, discover our seaside campsite in Rivedoux-Plage, close to the Ile d’Oléron!
What to do on the Ile d’Oléron: discover nature and hiking
Just like our campsite with swimming pool on the Ile de Ré, located in Rivedoux-Plage, cycling paradise is on the islands of Charente-Maritime!
The Ile d’Oléron is also a great place for walking and cycling, with over 130 km of cycle paths.
The Saumonards state forest is an ideal place to stroll in the shade of the pine trees and observe the local wildlife.
The salt marshes, where the famous Marennes-Oléron oysters are produced, offer magnificent scenery and guided tours to learn more about this ancestral know-how.
Birdwatchers will appreciate the Moëze-Oléron nature reserve, where many species of migratory birds come to rest.
Savour the local gastronomy
The Ile d’Oléron is renowned for its oyster production. The famous Marennes-Oléron oysters, matured in the oyster beds, are a local specialty to be enjoyed on site or to take away.
The markets of Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron and Dolus-d’Oléron offer the chance to discover other regional products such as bouchot mussels, sea salt and pineaux des Charentes.
