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Surfing, oysters and cycling: France's most beautiful island is the Atlantic's best-kept secret

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The Editor

Once you cross the bridge, time slows down and nature takes over. Around you, vast stretches of pine trees, sand, and ocean release an enchanting scent. Whether you want to spend your vacation lounging in the sun, exploring the local wildlife and flora, or learning to surf, Oleron Island is the perfect place to get away from it all.


Raw landscapes between ocean, forests, and marshes

On Oleron Island, nature will surprise you with its diversity. In the north, the Chassiron lighthouse offers an unparalleled view of the Atlantic Ocean. To the west, the dunes of Grande Plage stretch for kilometers, bordered by an ocean that's sometimes rough. Inland, a pine forest spanning more than 2,700 hectares is crossed by over 160 km of cycling paths: the perfect ride for a sporty afternoon in the shade.

Another iconic backdrop lies in its incredible network of salt marshes and oyster farms. It's particularly at Château-d'Oléron harbor that the magic happens, where the sky reflects in the water lined with famous wooden cabins bursting with a thousand colors.


Dolce vita, surfing and oyster platters on the terrace

On Oléron, life slows down beautifully. You hop on your bike as soon as you wake up to stock up on local produce at the lively markets of Saint-Pierre or La Cotinière. In the afternoon, the agenda is made to order: surfing lessons at Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, a paddle session at sunset through the channels, or spotting herons in the nature reserves.

But an Oléron day wouldn't be complete without tasting Marennes-Oléron oysters, bouchot mussels Charente-style and a glass of local white wine. When night falls, things get festive at the many seaside beach bars. Much more accessible and laid-back

year than its neighbor, the island of Ré, Oléron seduces with its authentic and spontaneous charm.