Ile d’Oleron
At first look, there is nothing so attractive about flat and wooded Oleron, in spite of the fact that it is, at 175 sq km, France‘s second largest island. It sits in the Bay of Biscay, die west of Rochefort and is linked to the mainland by what was France’s longest road bridge, when it was built in 1966. But if you are lucky to visit the island you will understand why so many holidaymakers flock there during the summer months. Photo by: K r y s
The island’s beaches are long, sandy and clean and not overcrowded even in high summer. Its sumptuous temperate forests of pine and evergreen oak keep the island green all year long. The coastal villages are somewhat blighted by a proliferation of holiday homes, but many retain their traditional charm. Photo by: fredpanassac
Like other islands in the region, Oleron has changed hands many times over the centuries. Above all, this is an island of settled communities. The islanders extend a warm welcome to tourists, but also continue with their traditional occupations of fishing, oyster farming and boat building. Photo by: Thibault Dangréaux
When to go: All year round, but it is advisable to book in advance in summer. Population: 19,000. Getting there: By road bridge from near Marennes. Photo by: LucKyL PhoToS
