5 markets to take your time in Marennes - Oléron
Our current guilty pleasure? Strolling the markets of Marennes-Oleron in search of the finest produce from local producers. The stalls of sun-drenched fruit and vegetables make your mouth water. Here are 5 markets to visit during your stay, for a tasty seasonal meal or a tasting break with friends.
THE UNMISSABLE CHÂTEAU D'OLÉRON MARKET
Every morning, all summer long
Bring color to your table: welcome to the Château d'Oléron market! From 8 a.m. onwards, the market comes alive with sun-drenched vegetables and stalls selling local produce and crafts, as you stroll down the aisles of this large market in Oléron. For a relaxing break, toast to summer with friends at one of the many nearby café terraces. Conviviality and authenticity guaranteed!
LA VICTORINE SEAFOOD MARKET
April to October, mornings and afternoons at 3:30pm
A veritable capital of fishing and seafood, the La Victorine market in La Cotinière offers the very best in local fish and seafood. In fact, it's the 1st largest port in Charente-Maritime! Sole, sea bass, monkfish, cuttlefish, meagre, langoustines and many other fish are freshly landed daily on the market stalls. Let yourself be carried away by the effervescence of the two daily auctions, which bring the port to life with their boundless energy!
THE 19TH-CENTURY-STYLE HALLES DE MARENNES
Year-round, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings
A must-see when exploring Marennes' historic town center, the imposing 19th-century halles come back to life three mornings a week. At each stand, local producers take you on a voyage of discovery of the terroir of the Marennes basin. The halles are located right in the heart of the town: just a stone's throw from the superb Marennes bell tower and all amenities. Ideal for a gourmet stopover during your visit!
THE 100% LOCAVORE MARKET AT THE PORT DES SALINES
April to October, Wednesday mornings
In the heart of the former salt marshes of Grand-Village Plage, the market is bustling with activity every Wednesday morning. The local farmers' market takes place. Organic and local, it's hard not to be tempted by all the regional specialities on offer. The famous tourteau fromager (cheese crab) rubs shoulders with a delicious Charentais melon or the traditional Saint-Turjan onions. Looking for an original souvenir? Don't miss the stalls of local artisans showcasing their made-in-Oleron creations.
BEACH AND MARKET IN SAINT-DENIS D'OLERON
Year-round, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sunday mornings
We love strolling through the aisles of Saint-Denis d'Oléron's vast market. Inside the market halls, fishmongers, market gardeners and passionate cheese-makers invite you to sample their produce. Outside, you're sure to find what you're looking for, from beachwear and jewelry to handmade soaps and decorative objects. Just long enough to enjoy a plate of seafood before heading off to the beach on foot, just a few minutes away!
See also
Recommendations for a successful holiday with friends or family
