5 mini-bike tours of Marennes - Oléron!
We'll take you pedaling between sea and marsh on the paths of Marennes-Oleron! Whether you're a bikepacking expert or a cycling novice, there's plenty to do here, and plenty of kilometers to cover without getting too wet. For a weekend or a day, you can go freewheeling on 5 itineraries that don't lack air!
In the heart of the Marais de La Seudre
With its 10,000 hectares of marshland, there's no shortage of nature around Marennes. The Marais de la Seudre extends from Marennes to the village of Le Gua. Start in town, and end up on the white paths of the marshes! We start by driving along the Chenal de Marennes, then the Canal de la Charente à La Seudre. Between charming Charentais houses and the surrounding marshes, authenticity is the order of the day! We then head into the heart of the marshes to reach the Moulin des Loges, one of Europe's last working tide mills, the ideal spot for a picnic break worthy of the name. You've still got the pedal to the metal? We continue our expedition south, heading for the villages of Saint-Just-Luzac, Nieulle-Sur-Seudre and Le Gua!
Itinerary: From Moulin des Loges to Tour de Broue
Chemins de La Seudre to Fort Louvois
The Chemins de La Seudre itinerary takes you in no time at all through the most emblematic corners of the Marennais basin. If you're a heritage lover, here's an itinerary you won't want to miss: the famous Fort Louvois awaits you at the end of your route. After a well-deserved dip in the sea, get back in the saddle at Marennes - Plage. Follow the cycle path to Bourcefranc - Le Chapus. A few pedal strokes and you're in the countryside. On your right, keep your eyes open: the marshy areas are home to a variety of birds! Continue on to the Pointe du Chapus, with its boats and colorful oyster huts lining the harbor. We recommend arriving at the end of the day, to admire Fort Louvois in the light of sunset. Magic guaranteed!
Itinerary: From one marsh to another - Between Bourcefranc and Marennes-Hiers-Brouage
Nearby gourmet stop: Le Terminus, Bourcefranc - Le Chapus
A breath of sea air along the west coast
Today's objective: to cross the island from the Pointe de Chassiron southwards to La Cotinière and its picturesque little port. 17km of freewheeling, including 12km directly along the ocean. Departure from the "end of the world" point at Chassiron. Faced with the panoramas offered by the wild coastline, a feeling of restful calm lulls us along the ride. With virtually no difference in altitude, even the youngest cyclists can pedal along the trails without difficulty, and get a real kick out of it! Traditional Oleron villages and hamlets pass by; stop off at Chaucre or Domino, and enjoy the charm of a traditional Oleron setting. Continue due south. And as soon as a hint of iodine tickles your nostrils, there's no doubt: you've arrived at La Cotinière. You've earned the right to enjoy a seafood platter with your feet (almost) in the water!
Itinerary: Discovering Oleron's heritage - North of the island of Oleron
Gourmet stop nearby: Marché aux poissons, La Cotinière.
In the shade of the pines in the Saumonards forest
A change of scenery! Meet us at the entrance to the Saumonards state forest in Boyardville for a new landscape in the heart of nature. Follow a signposted path through the lush vegetation. In the shade of the foliage, it's an ideal playground for travellers in search of a breath of fresh air. With your nose to the wind, take a break to observe the preserved local flora, between maritime pines and holm oaks. One last pedal and you're on your way out of the forest, along the Douhet canal and its pretty marshland. After the effort, the comfort! We recommend stopping off at the Port for a bite to eat!
Itinerary: Between sea and forest - From Boyardville to St Denis d'Oléron
Gourmet stop nearby: L'Echoppe, Boyardville
On the Saint-Trojan-les-Bains seafront
Did you know? Traces of Belle Epoque architecture from the early 20th century can also be found on the island of Oléron. To discover it, let's head for Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, on the southern tip of the island. Let's set off for a lovely stroll, between the sound of the waves and the picturesque charm of this atypical seaside resort. Take the Boulevard de la Plage and its coastal path, then follow the cycle track. On one side, there's a breathtaking view of the coureau, with Fort Louvois looming in the distance, and on the other, the imposing seaside facades dotting the seafront. A step back in time! Continue on to the Marais des Bris. Take the time to stop off at the Pacaud dike, a magnificent area protected for its flora and fauna, which should be crossed with the utmost respect. There are picnic tables along the way, where you can recharge your batteries before setting off on your return journey.
Gourmet stop nearby : Restaurant L'Iode, Saint-Trojan-Les-Bains
