Outdoors activities

To discover the wealth of local flora and fauna,  

Visit the Marais d’Yves marshland reserve

Managed by the League for the Protection of Birds, the Marais d’Yves Nature Reserve covers an area of 192 hectares between La Rochelle and Rochefort, in the local authority of Yves, right on the doorstep of Châtelaillon-Plage.
It has become something of a microcosm, enabling a rare and varied flora to thrive. For birds, it provides an ideal nesting site. You can visit this splendid reserve with guides who really appreciate and can convey its beauty and diversity.
The tour of this protected environment takes two hours.  

Discover the wealth of our natural heritage, from ocean to marshland

The Atlantic Ocean is brim full of resources and surprises for you to discover. 

Guided tour of the oyster beds

One of the gastronomic treasures of Châtelaillon-Plage is the “island” oyster. These oysters are farmed at Les Boucholeurs, an ancient fishing village, where the local tradition of oyster and shellfish farming is very much alive.
Visit the oyster beds at Les Boucholeurs, snugly seated in a cart pulled by a tractor.
An expert will explain the stages in growing oysters and the visit will end with a tasting session organised by one of our oyster farmers. Please wear old shoes and a hat, and don’t forget your camera! 

Discovering fishing techniques

For those who love fishing, the resort’s Tourist Office organises sessions to teach you different fishing techniques: gathering shellfish, square-net fishing, and surf casting for the more energetic. 

Gathering shellfish

When the tide goes out, clams, cockles and other shellfish are there for the taking. 

Anne, organiser of “Nature Environnement 17”, is your guide in discovering these fascinating creatures and will teach you the necessary precautions to avoid harming their environment. Respecting the coastline contributes to its development. 

Rendezvous at Les Boucholeurs harbour, in front of the “Mirko al Mare” restaurant. 

Square net fishing

Square net fishing is done from a small hut on stilts, reached by a wooden walkway over the sea and mud. Gilles will teach you this local fishing technique.
Equipment and bait are provided, but be sure to bring suitable shoes and clothing.
Rendezvous at Les Boucholeurs harbour, on the sea wall.