Small seaside town of New Aquitaine, Port-des-Barques is located in the department of Charente-Maritime, not far from the town of Rochefort and its arsenal. It takes place on the Atlantic coast, in front of the peninsula of Fouras.
Port-de-Barques is above all a seaside resort very family known for its beaches and for its nautical animations. The town enjoys an ideal location to discover the most beautiful sights of the region, as well as a long sandy beach that attracts visitors from all over the world. In the eighteenth century, however, the small town became the port of departure for La Fayette and its soldiers bound for America and its revolution.
Today, Port-de-Barques seduces by its tranquility and its idyllic landscapes that make the fame of the Charente-Maritime and the Atlantic coast.
Port-de-Barques has three main beaches, the south beach, the north beach, and the beachfront. Two secondary beaches, more intimate and quiet, are added to the sandy beaches 'Island Lady. Very family, the south beach benefits from the water reservoir of the Anses, a water available at all times. Ideal for children, it is possible to introduce them to the sea kayak safely.
Island off Port-de-Barques, the Isle Madame takes place on the left bank of the estuary of the Charente. Located opposite Fort Boyard and the island of Oléron, it is the smallest of the Charentais islands. It is connected to the mainland by a road of sand and pebbles about one kilometer long, the pass to the oxen, accessible only at low tide. In addition to the sandy beaches, you can discover an oyster farm to discover some oysters of the region.
Walking through the village and its surroundings, on the banks of the Charente or the ocean, you can discover pontoons with stilt huts that serve for fishing with plaice. An eco-museum of the oyster which presents the history of oyster culture in the region can be visited in Port-de-Barques.
In the center of Port-de-Barques, do not miss a visit to the church of Sainte-Catherine Labouré, Calvary, or the chapel of the sanctuary.
The market is held every Wednesday morning. In summer, the town also offers a waterfront market on Sunday mornings. A flea market is organized at the beginning of July.
The festival of the city is held around August 15, with a ball, musical animations, fireworks, games or even exhibitions.
Guided Tour : the Fort of the Island Madam
- From 8 to 27 april 2024
- Fort de l'Île Madame
- The guided tour of the fort and its powder magazine will take you on a journey through time…
Guided Tour of the Aquaculture Farm
- From 1 july to 31 august 2024
- Ile Madame
- Come and discover our farm and our salt marsh. - Reservation required. Length of visit : 1 hour.
Night Market in Port-des-Barques
- From 5 july to 23 august 2024
- Avenue de La République, front de mer
- The night market takes place every Friday in July and August from 7pm.