Ile Madame

Located in the Charente estuary, on the tourist town of Port-des-Barques, the Madame Island, is at low tide, "attached" to the mainland by a natural tombola of 1km Named "Passe aux Boeufs", extended offshore by a rocky tombola called "Passe aux Filles". It is only accessible at low tide, preferably on foot and by bicycle. It is a fragile space that must be respected and protected. On the highest point of the island, 18 meters above sea level, the Fort of the island was entrusted to the "Coastal protection agency". This fort had made the island, since the 17th century, a link in the defense system of the coast, the estuary of the Charente and therefore the maritime dockyard of Rochefort. You can visit it in the company of a guide of the Ecomuseum of Port-des-Barques.

Your visit : After crossing the "Passe aux Boeufs", approach "the Well of the Insurgents" then continue by the pedestrian path which has you tour the island. To the north, towards "la Passe aux Filles", at low tide, you will probably cross oyster farmers on their tractors.
Stop at the Aquaculture Farm to listen to the saltmaker telling you everything about the salt marsh, the salt harvest... and taste on the spot products of the island.

Tips: consult the timetables of the tide before organizing your trip and plan on wearing water resistant shoes.

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