Sainte-Gemme walks

Set amongst pine trees, a lake and rocky landscapes, the village of Sainte-Gemme stands out for its10th-century priory. The walk forms part of both the historical heritage of Romanesque Saintonge and its natural heritage.

Amidst woods, fields and small hamlets, the countryside around the villages of Nancras and Balanzac unfolds. A typical example of Romanesque Saintonge heritage, the13th- and16th-century churches and the16th-century castle evoke a heritage rich in history.

Near the coast and the Brouage Marsh, a circular route runs along the Massonnerie Nature Reserve and around the large ponds of the Cadeuil sandpit.

When the Broue tower was built, it was reflected in the waters of the Gulf of Santons. The sea is now so far away that it can no longer be seen from the tower's terrace. But from the heights of Saint-Jean-d'Angle, you can still imagine the boats that once sailed here and brought wealth to the port and the village.

This route allows you to discover Sablonceaux Abbey in the middle of the fields from several angles. The route passes through woods, fields, vineyards and horse farms, giving you an insight into the diversity of agricultural activities around Sablonceaux.

Following in the footsteps of the famous writer and through the forest, you’ll discover Saint-Porchaire and its surroundings. Typical examples of the Romanesque heritage of the Saintonge region, the12th-century church, the Château de La Roche-Courbon and the Marie Bon house are sure to satisfy the curiosity of walkers.

Circular discovery of the town centre and the surrounding countryside. Walk along the banks of the gentle Seudre river This route is suitable for cycling (mountain bikes, hybrid bikes) in accordance with the Highway Code.

Stroll through the town centre of Saujon and the peri-urban marshes of the Seudre. Discover the local flora and fauna, combining hiking with curiosity. This route is accessible by bicycle, mountain bike or hybrid bike, provided you follow the rules of the road.

Circular route around the Lande starting from the port of Ribérou.

Set amongst woods and Saintonge hamlets, the villages of Nieul-lès-Saintes and Soulignonnes exemplifythe small-scale heritage of Romanesque Saintonge. The14th-century medieval castle, the11th- and12th-century churches and a15th-century watchtower add to the charm of this walk steeped in rural character.

Circular through the former salt marshes of Saint-Just-Luzac

A circular starting from Trizay Abbey towards the cave and the Creux Nègre rock passage. This geological curiosity in the region is carved into the ancient cliffs that line the Arnoult valley. Half of the route is on tarmac, on very quiet roads, allowing you to discover the market gardens on the rich lands of the Arnoult valley (home of the Pont l'Abbé bean).

Amidst woods, marshes and small hamlets, you can discover the rural landscape of the villages of Romegoux and Geay. A typical feature of the Romanesque Saintonge region, the 16th- and 12th-century churches adorn a tree-lined, natural trail through the Bruant marshes.

Discover a typical oyster-farming village on a trail lined with numerous information panels, allowing you to stroll through the village, then walk alongside the many colourful oyster farmers' huts to finally reach the Seudre.

A delightful, easy walk to discover the marshes surrounding the picturesque village of Mornac-sur-Seudre.

A circular route around the pretty, peaceful little village of Geay. The route takes you along well-maintained paths through forests and wooded countryside. You will also ride alongside the marsh. The Charente is not far away but remains invisible. The route has been surveyed on the ground, making it very reliable.

Starting from Échillais, you can first admire the beautiful 12th-century façade of the church. Then you will pass in front of "La Limoise". This residence is described at length by Pierre Loti in "Le Roman d'un Enfant" (A Child's Novel). This house belonged to the Duplais family, friends of the Viaud family (Julien Viaud being Pierre Loti's real name). He would spend his Thursdays there, walking from his house in Rochefort (now Pierre Loti's house) to La Limoise, crossing the Charente by ferry. There was no transporter bridge at the time. The Seudre Canal to the Charente (also known as the Bridoire Canal) is 27 km long and was dug in the 19th century from Saint-Hippolyte to Marennes. You will also cross Île Maurice, although it is much smaller than the one we usually think of.

From the transhipment bridge to the port of Rochefort, a journey through time. Rochefort was chosen by Louis XIV to restore his maritime power. Along this route, which runs close to the water in its first section, there is no shortage of remnants from that era: dry docks, the Corderie Royale, the arsenal, and, with a bit of luck, the Hermione...