The best traffic-free bike rides in Forêt Des Combots D'Ansoine

Very beautiful natural arch carved by marine erosion with the tides, which gives a special air to this fishing hut (carrelet) that is worth stopping for a look. A typical snapshot of the Charente coastline.

This viewpoint, located near the port of La Palmyre, offers a magnificent panorama of the Atlantic Ocean. It is an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the landscape, between the sea, boats, and surrounding nature. The atmosphere is particularly pleasant, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the colors illuminate the coast. A must-stop during a bike or mountain bike ride on the Charente coast.

La plage de la Grande Côte is one of the most beautiful sites in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer. Lined with dunes and forest, it offers a vast panorama of the Atlantic Ocean as well as a breathtaking view of the Coubre lighthouse and, on a clear day, of the island of Oléron. Easily accessible by bike or mountain bike, it is an ideal place to take a break, admire the landscape, enjoy the sea air and immortalize this exceptional setting.

L'Embellie beach is a real must-see on the coast. This spot offers an exceptional natural setting with an unobstructed view of the island of Oléron, ideal for a break during a mountain bike or bike ride. Between the ocean, the dunes, and the fine sand, the panorama is magnificent in all seasons. A perfect place to enjoy the calm, admire the landscape, and take a few photos before continuing the route.

Beautiful view, I recommend it

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.

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

The puits de l’Auture is an emblematic natural site located in Puits de l’Auture, north of the commune of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer. Its name often intrigues, and its history blends geology, local traditions, and maritime observation. 🌊 Origin and formation The puits de l’Auture is not a man-made well, but a natural formation: It is a cavity carved into the limestone rock by marine erosion. Under the effect of waves and infiltrations, the rock gradually collapsed, forming a sort of vertical chasm open to the sea. During strong swells or tides, water rushes in violently, creating spectacular eddies. 📜 Origin of the name The term “Auture” probably comes from Old French or the local dialect: It could derive from “hauteur” (height) or “autre” (other), evoking a high or separate place. Another hypothesis suggests a deformation of an old word related to a natural cavity or opening. No completely certain origin has been formally established, which adds to the mystery of the place. ⚓ Local historical role The site has had several uses or functions over time: 👀 Observation point Located on the rocky cornice, it served as a natural observation post to monitor the sea. Locals and fishermen could spot boats, storms, or dangers. 🎣 Fishing activities As elsewhere on the coast of Royan, particularly near the famous carrelets (fishing huts on stilts), the area was frequented by fishermen. The rocks around the well allowed for shore fishing or line fishing. 🌿 A remarkable natural site Today, the puits de l’Auture is mainly: A popular walking spot along the coastal path. A listed site for its landscape and geological interest. A remarkable viewpoint over the Atlantic Ocean, especially at sunset. ⚠️ Caution The site remains fragile and potentially dangerous: Unstable cliffs Powerful waves during storms It is advisable to stay on the marked trails.