Saint-Georges-d'Oléron walks

A cycle route that crosses the Saumonards forest, the town of Boyardville and the marshes of the Île d'Oléron, this very varied route mostly follows cycle paths or small roads.

A very pleasant bike ride that mostly follows cycle paths. This tour will take you across a large part of the island of Oléron, but you will also ride along the shore for much of the way, going to the end of the island, the Chassiron lighthouse.

A short circular loop of ornithological interest around the Marais du Douhet, in Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, including a pleasant section on Plaisance Beach.

Discover the charm of this little village with its narrow streets, numerous wells and traditional houses, with their external staircases. Its name is said to derive from the word “Chancre”, which means “crab” in the local dialect, recalling the presence of a nearby rocky area where velvet crabs and edible crabs thrive. The villagers of Chaucre have long relied on the shoreline to supplement their income through shore fishing or fishing in the sluice – alternating with viticulture and agriculture. A street named Rue des Naufrageurs also pays tribute to their enduring reputation as former wreckers. The village is a microcosm of the island’s traditional way of life. Discover the 17 masonry wells here. One of them can be found in Rue de la Bardelle. A few dozen metres further on, in Rue du Vieux Chaucre, several wine cellars bear witness to the importance of viticulture. Their wide openings are flanked by arched windows that once looked out onto the wine press.

In summer and during hot weather, you’ll be glad of a bit of shade. Set off along the trails and footpaths to explore the Oléron National Forest, enjoy views of the Atlantic and finish the walk at some beautiful beaches.

Circular loop to discover the oyster beds around Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, which can be added to the Île d'Oléron cycle tour.

A route through vineyards, woods and beaches. Typical landscapes of the Île d'Oléron.

Cycle through the stone villages on the west coast of Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, crossing bucolic countryside, vineyards, forests and marshes, before arriving at the magnificent sandy beach of La Gautrelle.

A circular route in the south of the Île d’Oléron, mostly on cycle paths. A hybrid or mountain bike is preferable to a road bike on this terrain.

The northern tip of the island of Oléron evokes mixed feelings. Its wide open spaces give a sense of boundless freedom, its cliffs make it feel like the end of the world, while its traditional villages transport you to another era. Add to this a magnificent lighthouse watching over the surrounding area, and you have the perfect combination of history and culture mixed with exceptional panoramic views.

A short, easy walk with superb views of the rocky coast and the neighbouring mainland coast. Best done in the morning when the paths are deserted, the sun is not too hot and the light is magical.

An easy hike between the marshes of Château, La Chevalerie, Grésillon, Le Fief de la Gombaudière, Le Riveau and La Renisière. Please note that this hike is not possible in winter, as some paths are impassable when wet. From April to October, no problem.

Circular coastal loop on the west coast of Île d'Oléron. The first part is in the Saint-Trojan National Forest, followed by a long walk on the beach, before a final stretch in the forest. Visorando app recommended.

Walk around the village of Ors, its oyster channel and Grésillon. Ors was the arrival and departure point for tourists during the heyday of the ferry (1945–1966) until the viaduct was built (1966). Traffic jams are guaranteed in the narrow, winding streets! Stunning views of the Oléron viaduct and the old Ors jetty, which linked the mainland to the port of Chapus in Bourcefranc.

The commune of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains is located at the south-western tip of the Île d'Oléron, bathed by the Pertuis de Maumusson and the Coureau d'Oléron. Its large sandy beaches, pine forest, mimosa trees and mild climate make Saint-Trojan-les-Bains a very popular seaside resort.

This circular walk starts from the village of Saint-Trojan and takes you through the national forest, along the wild Atlantic coast with the impressive Maumusson sea channel, and around Gatseau Bay. It offers a complete panorama of the southern tip of the Île d'Oléron, far from the cars and crowds of the beaches. Please note: To be able to walk easily on the hard sand between (4) and (5), it is necessary to check the tide times (see Practical Information section).