The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Mathes

It was formed during the 19th century following the disappearance of the island of Armote. Its richness in coastal biotopes makes it one of the largest natural sites in Charente-Maritime. Its formation is due to the confrontation between the Atlantic currents sweeping the coasts and the currents of the Gironde flowing into the ocean. The marine current, heavily loaded with sand, slows down as it passes Pointe de la Coubre, which allows the sand to be deposited massively around and in Bonne-Anse. The bay is thus in perpetual evolution, so much so that the site could become an inland lake. The extent of the dune environments is remarkable.

Located on the commune of St-Palais-sur-Mer, at the tip of Terre-Nègre, it is intended to mark the southern passage of the Gironde estuary and to signal the presence of a dangerous sandbank, the la barre à l'Anglais.

The carrelets of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer are among the most emblematic elements of the Charente coastline. Their history blends traditional fishing, tourist development, and local heritage. 🐟 Origin of the carrelets Originally, the word "carrelet" referred to a square fishing net used since the 17th century. A precise description can be found as early as 1769, in the writings of the scholar Henri-Louis Duhamel du Monceau, who mentioned this type of fishing on the Saintonge coast. 👉 At that time, these were not yet the current huts, but simply a net operated from rudimentary structures. ⚓ Artisanal fishing structures The first local carrelets were simple wooden platforms, built by the fishermen themselves to stand above the water. They were mainly used to catch shrimp, fish, and crabs near the shore, without going out to sea. 👉 It was a family and coastal fishery, less dangerous than sea fishing. 🏖️ 19th – early 20th century: transition to a leisure activity At the turn of the 20th century, with the rise of seaside resorts like Saint-Palais, the carrelets evolved. Holidaymakers and notable figures adopted this practice: construction of fixed jetties, appearance of huts on stilts. The carrelets then became places for relaxation as much as for fishing. 👉 They already contributed to the postcard image of the coast. 🪵 After 1945: democratization and multiplication After the Second World War, the number of carrelets increased sharply. They became a symbol of popular leisure and conviviality. The transition was gradually made from a means of subsistence to a recreational activity. 🌊 Storms and reconstruction The carrelets are fragile in the face of storms: 1999: massive destruction (up to 90% in some areas) 2010 (Xynthia storm): new damage Many have been rebuilt identically, respecting tradition. 🏛️ Today: protected heritage In Charente-Maritime, there are about 400 carrelets. They are: integrated into the public maritime domain allocated by administrative authorization (often renewed every 5 years) Since 2018, they have been recognized as cultural heritage of the department. 👉 In Saint-Palais, they can be observed in particular: at Pont du Diable at the conche du Concié at the Puits de l’Auture

A beautiful trail with pine scents. A real treat.

Easily accessible place, only the last meters are prohibited for cyclists.

great ride

Quiet in the morning, busier in the afternoon in April

A nice hike to do in spring or autumn to enjoy the peace and quiet of the small roads and cycle paths. Don't hesitate to make a small detour to the Coubre lighthouse and the Pontaillac and Royan cornice. The return is a little less pleasant on a section of main road that can certainly be avoided. BE CAREFUL ⚠️ if it's windy, it can complicate the tour! (experienced).