In the heart of the island, the Oléron capital boasts a rich heritage and unspoiled nature, with its fishing port of The Cotiniere, the former house of Pierre Loti the oyster farming and natural site of Fort Royer or even the Boirie GardensLet's discover together what you absolutely must visit in Saint Pierre d'Oléron during your camping stay!
Discovering the village of Saint-Pierre d'Oléron
You can't have a vacation in camping on the island of Oléron without visiting Saint-Pierre, the capital. Take the time to stroll from alleys to shady squares, strolling through the streets lined with hollyhocks and white houses once inhabited by fishermen. Here, everything is serenity, freshness, and an invitation to stroll.
In the middle of the square Memain, we can discover the Lantern of the Dead of Saint-Pierre-d'Oleron. Behind this gloomy name hides an imposing 20 m high octagonal tower, in the old medieval cemetery of the city. It was once used to light up cemeteries to commemorate the souls of the dead… More alive, the Bonnemie Castle stands in the middle of a magnificent landscaped park ideal for strolling. Built in the 14th century, the castle is not open to the public, but the gardens are free and open to the public.
To gain a little more height, you will have to push open the doors of theSaint Peter's Church and climb to the top of the bell tower, 85 meters high. From the observation platform, you can admire a panoramic view of the entireOleron Island, L'Aix Island And Fort Boyard.
Many people don't know this, but the story of Saint-Pierre is closely linked to that of the writer Pierre Loti. In the heart of the capital village is the Maison des aïeules, the family home where Pierre Loti came on vacation on theOleron Island. When he died in 1923, at the age of 73, he was buried in the adjoining garden, "under the ivy and laurels," as he had always wished. The writer's last known home is not open to the public, but it can be seen behind the green gate.
The Oléron Island Museum
To find out everything (or almost everything) about the island's past, head to the Saint Pierre d'Oléron Museum ! From the Neolithic to the modern era, including the Middle Ages, you will be an expert on history from Oleron and traditional activities that are part of the richness of our island culture.
The port of La Cotinière
It is impossible to spend a vacation in Saint Pierre d'Oléron without making a detour by the port of La Cotinière ! It is one of the most typical places on the island, but also the first fishing port of Charente-Maritime ! With its colorful boats and lively quays where shops, bars, and restaurants rub shoulders, this pretty, picture-postcard port is a favorite with strollers. And if you love fish, don't miss the Victorine Market. It's THE seafood market on the island. Don't miss the fish auction tour organized during the summer by the Tourist Office.
The oyster and natural site of Fort-Royer
Do you like oysters? Discover the Fort-Royer oyster farm, a century-old village which is home to picturesque oyster huts set in the middle of the clearings and channels of the nature reserve of Moëze-OléronOn the program: guided tours of the oyster farm, educational workshops on oysters, hikes in the parks, and of course, tasting ofoysters from Marennes-Oléron !
Saint Pierre d'Oléron, beach side
If it's the beach that brings you to St Pierre d'Oléron, heading towards the beach of Matha. Located a stone's throw from the port of The Cotiniere, it is a family beach, less crowded than its neighbors in Oléron. Although the beach is supervised in summer, be aware that swimming is only possible at high tide.
The Boirie Gardens
Classified as a “remarkable garden”, the Boirie Gardens are definitely worth the detour. In addition to a large collection of sages, hostas, and rare plants, this lovely botanical and landscaped garden is enhanced by beautiful plant displays enriched with decorative objects. A great idea for a vacation outing that will delight all botany lovers!
photo © Cécile TRIBALLIER / CMT