Bucolic trip and iodized flavors on the Port de l'Houmeau

Discover Charente Maritime

With their quays bordered by oyster huts, their hollyhocks, their dykes which advance slowly into the sea, the small Charentais ports are irresistibly charming. Postcard landscapes on the coast, some of these havens of authenticity constitute places for iodized and exotic walks frequented by locals as well as visitors looking for escape and relaxation . You will fall for the charm and the atmosphere of the small port of Plomb de l'Houmeau , among the most intimate and picturesque in the region. A pleasant and rejuvenating break with family, friends or lovers!

The port of Houmeau, authentic landscapes

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Cap sur l'Houmeau at the gates of La Rochelle

A seaside town, L'Houmeau is one of the smallest municipalities in the greater Rochelle area. With a coastline of 3 km and its small pebble beach dominated by the cliffs, Houmeau enjoys an exceptional geographical location between La Rochelle and the Ile de Ré . The path that runs along its coastline also offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the majestic curve of the Ile de Ré bridge.

The wooden walkway

The charm of L'Houmeau undeniably resides in the small Port du Plomb which connects the neighboring town of Nieul-sur-Mer by a wooden footbridge. Two options to access it. By Nieul-sur-Mer, cross the shellfish hamlet of Lauzières and its old salt marshes today used for the refining of oysters. Another possibility is to go through L'Houmeau and follow the coastline to the parking lot where you can park your car to continue on foot towards the port. At any time of the day, hikers, cyclists and joggers share this secure trail that borders the ocean . The view is plunging over the Pertuis Breton between the Ile de Ré and the Aiguillon bay , open to Vendée and Brittany on the horizon.

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The port of Lead, yachting and oyster farming

The Port at low tide

A maritime atmosphere

In this typical harbor nestled in a natural haven, you almost expect to see barrels of salt and wine land there, but today, commercial ships have given way to boaters . Wearing Lead appears on the map browsers in the ^12th century. Historically, it hosted significant traffic with the Ile de Ré, fueling active trade with Paris and the countries of the North. The archives also reveal an ordinance of July 16, 1608 which fixes " the rights to be levied " - or to levy tax - on chickens, calves, wines and salt. Nowadays, this port perpetuates an artisanal and oyster fishing activity.

In this pretty little port where it is good to stroll, everything encourages a change of pace. At anchor, the boats of the oyster farmers rub shoulders with beautiful sailing yachts . You will enjoy strolling there, crossing the bridge to the lighthouse, contemplating the ballet of the boats and enjoying the relaxed rhythm of life that reigns here all year round. A natural photogenic setting to perfection. From the bridge, the view is breathtaking on the very chic Ile de Ré, on the other side of the pertuis. You can reach it in just ten minutes from L'Houmeau.

The Lighthouse with a view of the Ile de Ré bridge

A superb viewpoint on the Île de Ré Bridge

Captivating meetings with fishermen and oyster farmers

A walk between ocean and marsh

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Iodized flavors to enjoy by the water

A dozen oysters, clams, langoustines, whelks, plancha mussels accompanied by buttered bread and a glass of fresh white wine for a toast ... Are you tempted to visit the Houmeau without tasting its famous oysters , unthinkable! The Port du Plomb is an unmissable gourmet stopover for all locals, lovers of seafood, fish and shellfish . Sit in the front row for a tasting with sunset over the port! The Coquillages et Crustacées restaurant is a landmark for gourmets who showcases the quality of these sea gems with ease. Those looking for original dishes will enjoy signature dishes, such as the famous Charentaise mouclade … On the other side of the port, in Nieul-sur-Mer, located a few minutes' walk away, La Cabane de Lauzière and the restaurant Chez Karine invite you to enjoy delicious fish and other local products in an idyllic setting and a friendly atmosphere. Freshness guaranteed!