Things to see and do in Saint-Denis d'Oléron

The Chassiron Lighthouse, a must on Oleron island

The Chassiron lighthouse is located in the very north of the island of Oléron near the town of Saint-Denis d'Oléron.

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At 46 metres high and 224 steps, the Chassiron lighthouse is the most visited tourist site on the Ile d'Oléron. It is also one of the oldest lighthouses in France still in operation.

The most adventurous can climb to the top of the lighthouse on the balcony to admire the magnificent panoramic view of Oleron island.

Also visit the ecomuseum on the first floor of the Chassiron lighthouse to discover the history of the life of the inhabitants of the island of Oleron through the six rooms of which it is composed.

The Chassiron lighthouse has superb gardens all around it in the shape of a compass rose which are a delight for walkers.

The fish locks are also reconstructed in the park of the Lighthouse of Chassiron in order to introduce you to the old traditional fishing methods.

Discover the town of Saint-Denis d'Oléron

Saint-Denis d'Oléron is the northernmost commune on Oleron island It is an authentic town which has managed to preserve a rich and varied natural area.

The beaches of Saint-Denis d'Oléron are among the most beautiful on Oleron island:

  • Les Huttes beach is the reference point for lovers of board sports such as surfing, bodyboarding or kite surfing. It is a vast beach of fine sand (5km) which is supervised in July/August.
  • La Boirie beach: Located near the marina and the shops, La Boirie beach will make you fall under its charm thanks to its many colourful beach huts. This beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
  • The beach of Soubregeon: It is one of the wildest beaches in the town of Saint-Denis d'Oléron. It is located in a discreet place, sheltered from everyone just behind the petanque courts of the marina.

Saint-Denis d'Oléron also has the largest marina on Oleron island. You can find there shops but also cruise departures for La Rochelle, the island of Aix or Fort Boyard. Sea trips for fishing are also possible from the marina of Saint-Denis d'Oléron.

In summer, the market of Saint-Denis d'Oléron welcomes you every morning in the town centre to discover the tasty traditional dishes of Oleron island and the Charente-Maritime region.

Everything is gathered in Saint-Denis d'Oléron so that you can have a great time with your family or friends.