Enjoy your stay in camping on the island of Oléron to visit Fort Louvois, one of the must-see tourist sites that you absolutely must discover during your holidays in the Marennes basin. Built in the open sea on the Chapus rock, it is more than 300 years old. It stands opposite the citadel of Château d'Oléron, at the foot of the bridge that connects the island to the continent. Attached to the commune of Bourcefranc-Le Chapus, it is the last bastion in a long series of maritime fortifications commissioned by the Sun King. Discover!
The little history of the Fort
Also known as Fort du Chapus, Fort Louvois is the work of Vauban, the favorite architect of King Louis XIV. Built on a rock submerged at high tide, it reinforced the defense system of the Charente straits and protected the naval arsenal of Rochefort as well as the Fort Boyard.
However, the project was originally presented by the Marquis de Louvois, then Minister of War (hence the name of the fort). The design of the fortress was entrusted to the engineer François Ferry, already in charge of managing the fortification works of La RochelleBut upon Louvois's death in 1691, Vauban added his two cents and revised the plans for the building. He proposed a horseshoe-shaped fort, much less expensive than the initial project. Its construction took three years, from 1691 to 1694.
During the second half of the 18th century, the fort was modified to keep pace with advances in artillery. In the 19th century, the fortress was flanked by more powerful cannons and then by howitzers.
In 1929, it was classified as a historic monument. During the Second World War, the fort was heavily damaged during the bombings that accompanied the liberation of Marennes in September 1944. It was not until the 1960s that Fort Louvois was fully restored.
On the program for your visit
Fort Louvois is open to the public from April to November. At low tide, you can access it on foot via a 400-meter paved causeway (a 10-minute walk). At high tide, you'll need to take a boat for a short 10-minute sea trip. Once there, you can choose between a guided tour or a self-guided tour.
You can climb to the top of the 24-meter-high keep and admire a magnificent 360° view of the Pertuis Charentais and Fort Boyard in the distance. The tour continues on the ramparts, around the barracks located in the center of the parade ground, the food hall, the powder magazine and the guardhouse... The fort also houses an oyster farming museum as well as various permanent exhibitions. Allow 2 hours for the visit, taking your time, especially if you are curious to see and know everything!
Depending on the seasonal entertainment program, you have the opportunity to participate in a detective investigation and find yourself in 1702 (for adults and teens only). Younger visitors are not forgotten and can enjoy a treasure hunt to discover the history of Fort Louvois in a fun way. More effective than a history book!
Night shows and theatrical evenings
To make the experience even more extraordinary, we recommend visiting Fort Louvois after dark (only in July and August). You'll have the privilege of watching skits performed by truly excellent volunteer actors. The price of the night tour is slightly higher, but it's well worth it!
Opening times, prices, guided tours, news...see more information to organize your visit to Fort Louvois during your camping holidays on the island of Oléron !
Photo: Fort Louvois © CMT17 E. COEFFE