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Born in La Rochelle and Oléron residents at heart, Sonia and Eric are the proud managers of “Le Sabia” campsite on Oléron Island. Both photography enthusiasts and ocean lovers, these two campsite managers offer us a unique and enthusiastic perspective on Oléron, “The Luminous Island”. Discover their favorites, best tips, and advice: treat yourself to a seaside getaway.
As lovers of Oléron Island, what would you first recommend to a camper who has just arrived?
When a camper arrives on Oléron Island, we recommend they head to the Atlantic Ocean and awaken their senses: witness the splendid light offered by our coastline, hear the power of the elements, feel the biodiversity, and experience the sensation of sand between their toes. In the north of Oléron Island, we have an incredible opportunity to encounter all these sensations within just a few steps. With its long sandy beaches, cliffs, pebble beaches, rocky foreshore, and diverse wildlife, it’s a vibrant tapestry awaiting holidaymakers. What could be better than admiring a sunrise and a sunset over the ocean?
You’re passionate about photography. Is there a place you particularly enjoy for taking photos?
Yes, there are several. In the morning light, we particularly love the east coast of Oléron Island, with the huts on Boirie beach in Saint-Denis d’Oléron and its marina, as well as sunrises over the foreshore. During the day, we enjoy exploring the various destinations of “The Luminous Island”. The Fort Royer oyster farm is our favorite spot, but we also appreciate the Bris marsh, Bonnemie Castle Park, the Saumonards forest, which offers an incredible view of Fort Boyard, the Petit Village Nature Center, Château d’Oléron, the beaches…
In the evening, we love to admire a magnificent sunset during a sailing trip at sea or from the campsite entrance on land (and yes, sometimes we work!). And finally, at night… Oléron takes on another dimension. Whether it’s exploring heritage sites, the coastline, the Chassiron lighthouse, or the ports, there are so many subjects for a photographer to capture.
When a camper arrives on Oléron, we recommend they head to the ocean and awaken their senses
Gastronomy, places, crafts… do you have any particular favorites to share with us?
Gastronomic favorites? Yes, there are some lovely places, and this list can’t be exhaustive. “Le Jour du Poisson” in Saint-Denis d’Oléron is our favorite restaurant (a tip: book before your stay!). We also enjoy the 66 Café and La Fleur de Thym on the port of Saint-Denis d’Oléron. Further south, in Château d’Oléron, we love to visit our friend Fred’s restaurant, “La Croix du Sud,” which offers flavors that invite you on a culinary journey.
We particularly love going to the Saint-Denis d’Oléron market; our local producers delight our taste buds with their excellent products. What could be more pleasant than enjoying some oysters and shellfish or an églade with a piece of cheese on a beach at sunset?
Oléron’s artisan scene is rich with many artists and creators. Ladies, be sure to visit Agathe’s shop, “La perle d’O,” or Véronique’s shop, “île émoi,” both boutiques in Saint-Denis d’Oléron. We also recommend visiting the artists’ huts along the Baudissière channel and strolling among the huts of Château d’Oléron.
Finally, as the good sailors we are, our top recommendation is to discover the island by catamaran with Jean Yves and Azulile. It’s also possible to go diving, with remarkable biodiversity.
Are there other places you enjoy in Charente-Maritime?
Born in La Rochelle and with La Rochelle in our hearts, we adore the city and its many facets. It’s our favorite destination, and we also recommend our campers go there by boat from the port of Saint-Denis d’Oléron. We also appreciate the gentle way of life that prevails on Aix Island, where we often stop over. Our sister island, Île de Ré, is also so charming and magical off-season. As heritage enthusiasts, we also recommend the various castles quickly accessible from Oléron Island (Crazannes, La Roche-Courbon, Saint-Jean D’Angle…). And finally, we love to stroll through the heart of the Marennes marsh towards the Moulin des Loges in the late afternoon when the light is warm and soft. This list is by no means exhaustive; Charente-Maritime reveals so much beauty and richness, both in its heritage and its landscapes.
All photos and the video featured in this article were taken by Sonia and Eric from Le Sabia campsite.
