Brouage and its surroundings' must see fortified city…

Discover Charente Maritime

Two steps away from Marennes and its oysters, is the attractive fortified city of Brouage. Through time, Brouage has been alternatively a commercial, a war and an oyster harbour ; this town (labelled one of the Most Beautiful Village of France) is a surprising stronghold. It is a truly voyage back in time, do not forget your binoculars and a good pair of hiking shoes to walk around the fortifications. Come on, let’s go !

Brouage, a stronghold to be visited

Brouage suffered the historic turmoil of the region. The town was restored in the second half of the 20th century. Located only 6 km from Marennes, it is close to the coast, but is actually in the marshlands. You are welcome by the Porte and the Bastion Royal, and just beyond these there are large car parks. Between the 1st April to 30th September ; the guided tours offered by the Tourist Office, allow you to enjoy the history of the town and its architecture. But even in ‘low season’, do not hesitate to visit Brouage, which is a beautiful place all year (even if some shops are closed).

Did you know ? In the whole town, there is an interpretation path with informative boards, which help you to understand the different phases of the town through the centuries.
And also : Visit the Musée du Vélo (The Bike Museum) which is located right in the heart of the fortified town, it is really cool !

Musée du Vélo (The Bike Museum) in Brouage

The interpretation board in the whole town

There was a time when Brouage was a strategic place for the salt trade, but also for the military navigation, before Rochefort stole its thunder ! Walk around to see the Forge Royale, the Halle aux Vivres, the Poudrière Saint-Luc, Saint-Pierre de Brouage church. Climb up (with a good pair of shoes and keeping an eye on the younger children) on the fortifications to admire the marshlands. Canals and salt marshes spread out under your eyes, sometimes some animals graze… In Spring, the flourishing nature offers a fluorescent and varied coloured palette to these areas. After summer, everything is tanned by the sun. Walkers and ornithology enthusiasts will be delighted to see swans, egrets, herons, seagulls and storks feeding in this ecosystem.

The marshlands around the town, a preserved environment

The watchtowers, all around the town to protect it

Graffiti from all time and all ages

The marshlands from a hole in the watchtowers

Your holidays in the Brouage’s region

Are you coming on holidays in the region because you like oysters ? ;) Few kilometres away from Brouage is La Cité de l’Huitre (The Oyster’s City) in Marennes. Fun and different, it is a place that has something to please the whole family (even those who are not into shellfish). During summer, there are events, a museum and even bike loans for the more active visitor.

For all the events in the region, check the town’s website for the agenda. And if you want to go out and do activities in the surrounding area, check out our agenda !

To taste oysters, we recommend La Cabane Ostréicole of the Thomas family. You can find them in Bourcefranc-le-Chapus during summer and all year on the markets of the region.

On the same commune, les huîtres de Ludovic are famous, he has brought his passion to his job for 33 years.

And, a last address, La Belle des Marais which offers delicious hampers of Fine de Claire Verte Label Rouge (Red label) oysters.

On the restaurant side, again to taste shellfish, we recommend l’Aromate in Marennes.

And for sleeping ? If you are 2, there is a beautiful bed and breakfast located in Bourcefranc, L’Escale du Vieux Chapus, welcoming you in a maritime atmosphere.

For family or friends trips, we recommend Le Logis des Lauriers Roses, in Marennes, you will be warmly welcomed and made to feel at home.