5 places to thrill in Marennes - Oléron
Looking for an adrenalin rush this Halloween? There's no age limit for thrill-seekers. Between seafaring legends and haunted citadels, there's something mystical in the iodized air. The arrival of autumn is the perfect time for the whole family to discover Oleron's heritage.
1. The Présidente Viera wreck and its ghosts
Off the shores of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, a mysterious shadow distorts the incessant motion of the waves. You finally catch sight of it: the imposing hulk of the cargo ship Presidente Viera. On stormy evenings, it is said that the spirits of the 25 shipwrecked sailors have been haunting the site for over 100 years... Hidden underwater, beware: the wreck is revealed at low tide. The more adventurous can then approach it for an astonishing walk on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Oleron!
2. Mysterious Citadel
In the autumn mist, the ramparts of the Citadelle de Brouage are transformed into mysterious relics. They are home to goosebump-inducing creatures and legends. Half-man, half-wolf, it's said that it's the Ganipote that sends shivers down the villagers' spines on the evenings of the full moon! Hear a howl in the distance? She's on your way. Quickly take refuge behind your guide, who is waiting for you to continue your tour of the citadel in complete safety.
3. On the Chemin des Naufrageurs to the north of the island
On the northern coast of the island of Oleron, it is said that the surrounding villages were populated by mercenaries. On the lookout for treasure loaded onto passing ships, legend has it that, hidden between the dunes, they would incite cargo ships to approach. These would then smash into the rocky plateaus. No quarter was given; the pirates relentlessly slaughtered and pillaged the shipwrecked crew. Today, the coasts have regained their calm, and a stroll through the dunes in the footsteps of the pirates reveals a panorama of a thousand colors and reflections brighter than all the treasures!
4. Spirit of the seas, are you there?
It's a mysterious-looking tower rising up in the heart of Saint-Pierre d'Oléron. And what can we say about its unmistakable name: La Lanterne des Morts. Erected on the town's ancient medieval cemetery, it has been warning the living since the 12th century. Beware of those who disturb the sleep of sailors lost at sea: you risk being haunted for eternity... Sensitive souls: hurry to the next stage of the Saint-Pierre d'Oléron Heritage Trail to continue this timeless stroll!
5. The forest of the strange
Autumn is the ideal season for an enchanted stroll through the heart of the Saumonards forest in Oléron. With its changing lights, labyrinthine paths and military relics popping up here and there, there's a mystical air about this vast forest on the edge of the coast. Never fear: strange birds, foxes and insects are the only guardians of this vast domain. A magical encounter awaits!