The best traffic-free bike rides around Le Grand-Village-Plage

This small chapel located in the old village was restored in the 19th century. It was then given a neo-Gothic style, as evidenced by the ribbed vaults, the capitals, and the polygonal spire that forms the bell tower. With its rounded porch and square belfry, which easily reveals its bells, this small rural church is truly a beautiful achievement. In 1990, the interior was decorated with frescoes depicting rural life scenes and landscapes, by Elie Murat, a local painter. A large blue painting of Christ surrounded by angels with the inscription "Christ is risen, all be His witnesses" is simply splendid.

Nature and well-being characterize this village, classified as a seaside resort since 1898. Its small, typical houses in the town center, with their winding streets and narrow passages, take us back to the hard life of fishermen; its waterfront, which recalls its old-world charm; its Belle Epoque villas still bear witness to the beginnings of vacation resorts and the first sea bathing. But Saint-Trojan-les-Bains is also a setting where flora and fauna are abundant. On foot, by bike, or by little train, you can explore its national forest. Its location at the southern tip of the island of Oléron, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Coureau d'Oléron, is protected from storms by a magnificent 2,000-hectare forest that can be explored on foot, by bike, or by miniature train. It also offers visitors a wide variety of beaches: La Petite Plage: Sheltered on the coast along the Coureau, lined with Belle Epoque villas, this beach is frequented by regulars who come together for the charm and tranquility of its sheltered setting. Nearby, the Coureau d'Oléron Water Sports Center (CNCO) offers numerous water activities for all ages. A ferry also provides a crossing between Saint-Trojan and La Tremblade. La Plage du Soleil: Located along the Manson promenade, facing Ronce-les-Bains, facing southeast, La Plage du Soleil truly lives up to its name. Its ideal location makes it ideal for children and parents alike. Gatseau Beach: A large, south-facing beach sheltered from the wind and waves, it is very popular with families. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer and it is accessible to people with disabilities. It is served by the "P'tit Train de Saint-Trojan," which ventures into a wild and charming setting. La Grande Plage: On the west coast, facing the Atlantic Ocean, stretching 3 km, beyond the forest and dunes, it is the most famous and popular beach in Oléron. Accessed via a footpath, which can be reached either by the forest road or the cycle path located at the entrance to the village. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer and, due to its size and wild nature, it is popular with surfers and bodyboarders. Many activities are practiced there: surfing, kitesurfing, sand yachting. Saint-Trojan-les-Bains is one of the seaside resorts of character, thanks in part to its oyster port, lined with numerous colorful wooden huts, which offer a real feast for the eyes with every stroll. Today, some of these huts remain a workplace for active oyster farmers. The produce is sold either by shipment or at local markets. Other huts have been restored to accommodate the village's artists, who inspired the painters. They were granted to the municipality by former oyster farmers and underwent a major renovation in 1997. Painters, artists of all stripes, and galleries have thus taken their place in these authentic heritage sites. So if you appreciate painting, art, and the diversity of expression... Saint-Trojan-les-Bains and its artists are ready to welcome you. And don't forget the annual mimosa festival, which perfumes the entire island in early February.

A beautiful church built of gray limestone in a style that combines Classical and Romanesque elements. The church dates back to the early 15th century.

You can rent boats for a closer look at the salt pans, and there are excellent bars for refreshments! https://www.port-des-salines.fr/

Here you can observe local sea salt production. There's a small hiking trail between the sea salt fields and a shop where you can sample and purchase fresh sea salt.

Rough surface not for racing bikes More hilly than you think

View of the coast and Marennes

Very pretty picturesque site which is worth the detour