Marennes Towns and Villages in Marennes

Located on the Seudre estuary, Marennes once surrounded by salt marshes, is the birthplace of the oyster, which has made it famous throughout the world. Former island of the Gulf of Saintonge, now attached to the mainland, Marennes has forged a solid reputation with its oyster ponds and small multicolored huts.

The port of Cayenne and its 4 km channel is the starting point for visits to the oyster farms and the clears allowing the refining of oysters. You can be guided through the Cité de l'Huître, on foot or by bike, to learn all about the history, culture and gastronomy of this delicate mollusk with such delicate flesh. The Seudre estuary provides nearly half of the oysters consumed in France.

Along the right bank of the Seudre, you can stop at Marennes-Plage, and enjoy sunbathing on the equipped beach.

On the left bank of the Seudre, we discover one of the most beautiful villages in France. With its white flowered houses, its small fishing port, its alleys and its markets, Mornac sur Seudre is a picturesque oyster and artisan village. Its fortified medieval church is renowned for its chevet, listed as a historic monument. La Tremblade, going up the left bank, is also a major oyster port.

To discover the Seudre estuary in an original way, you can also take the Train des Mouettes, from La Trembalde to Saujon. It is the only steam locomotive still in service in Charente-Maritime.