The story of a "port of barks” in the Land of Fort Boyard
Protecting the Naval Dockyard of Rochefort, defending the estuary of the Charente and arming ships in the harbor of Aix Island implied the presence at the port, of a fleet of barks, hence its name “Port-des-Barques”, to ensure the liaison between the shore and the ships.
Here, your days are punctuated by fishing on foot, by sea baths in the sea water reservoir of the “Plage des Anses”, sailing on the Lac des Rouches, walks, bike rides or carriage rides... In summer, depart from Port-des-Barques for a cruise around the Fort Boyard and towards the Aix Island !
Such unique moments to live in Port-des-Barques!
A fishing village at the mouth of the Estuary of the Charente river
The peninsula is a haven where everyone lives at the rhythm of nature and the tides. Walk around and admire the incredible panorama on the Charente, the estuary, the islands, the forts, beaches, seaside villas ...
On the estuary side : a waterfront of low houses, they seem to defend the borough and the fishing village. Higher on the cliff, beautiful seaside villas from the inter-war period overlook the estuary.
On the seaside : a superb row of wooden fishing pontoons on stilts, an exceptional heritage of the early years.
Port-des-Barques, the peninsula and its oyster farms explained by the Ecomuseum
The estuary of the Charente river remains a high place of reproduction of oysters, Port-des-Barques is the home of many oyster farms with pretty names such as “Les Fontaines”, “Les Mattes”, “Monportail”, “La Garenne”...
Enter the Ecomuseum of the peninsula where you will hear everything about the world of oyster farming but also stories of patience and courage.
While savoring your dozens of delicately iodized oysters, keep in mind the four long years of hard work, punctuated by tides and changing seasons !
Horse-drawn carriage ride from Port-des-Barques to Ile Madame
The Passe-aux-Boeufs is the only way to get to Ile Madame !
With the "Calèche de Madame", discover the landscapes of Port-des-Barques and île Madame.
Did you know...?
It is in Port-des-Barques that La Fayette embarked on the frigate Hermione, built in Rochefort, to go to America in 1780!
At the pier of the port, find a stele with his effigy, erected to pay tribute to this "hero of the two worlds" ...
