MicroClimate and Oysters:
A local micro climate ensures the region is the second sunniest in France. The beaches are beautiful and natural, protected by dunes backed by immense pine forests. This makes Oléron a lovely place to walk and enjoy nature, whether it be a mushroom picking jaunt in the autumn, or simply a summer stroll through the pine forests and along the beautiful beaches. Since oyster farming is traditionally the islands largest economy, there are various tourist attractions centred around this, like trips out on to the east coast marshes at low tide and, of course oyster detestation restaurants. The famous oyster marshes are recognisable throughout the island and are surrounded by colourful huts, working and artisan, which bring artists and seafood lovers from all over the place. Keeping in this style you will find that the whole island is full of amazing seafood restaurants and bars to help you while away the activities of your day. You can find all types of restaurant on the island.
Eating out:
Keeping in this style you will find that the whole island is full of amazing seafood restaurants and bars to help you while away the activities of your day. You can find all types of restaurant on the island; from basic little oyster huts that serve the simplest, most delicious oysters you’ve ever tasted, fresh from the marshes, to Italian, Thai, organic vegetarian Indian to high class gastronomic French cuisine. Wherever you go you will usually find a good menu and plenty of fresh fish! We are always at hand to recommend good restaurants whatever your tastes may be.
Le Chateau- Things to do:
There is a lovely planted mini golf course as well as public petang or ‘french boules’ pitches in the town. Also on a Sunday morning in Le Chateau you will find all the delights of the biggest markets on the island, bringing people from all the localities all year round. Le Chateau also boasts a lovely newly renovated port and marina, full of restaurants and artisans huts offering everything from langoustines, to hand made home furnishings and beautiful jewellery. Next to the port is the historic Citadel, an original Vauban fortress dating back to the 17th century, but now more commonly used to host jazz festivals, art exhibitions or fireworks displays. There is also a nice beach in the town with a sea water swimming pool during the summer to enable swimming at low tide and safe swimming for the little ones. Although the east coast beaches aren’t quite as typically beautiful as the west coast ones, they are certainly quaint and the sea is always warmer here than the Atlantic coast.
Golf:
There is a 9 hole course available at the golf club at St Pierre in the middle of the island, near the east coast. Contact details are as follows...
Address: La Vieille Perrotine, 17310 SAINT PIERRE
Téléphone: 05 46 47 11 59
Fax: 05 46 75 07 56
Other Activities:
Mini golf, french boules, snorkeling, fishing, mushroom picking, beach buggies, boat trips, circus, live music, hunting
