At the foot of the bridge on the Ile d'Oléron, Fort Louvois is a must-see site in the Marennes basin. Designed by Vauban, it is the little brother of Fort Boyard! It is a 17th century maritime fortification, built on a rock submerged at high tide, between the Ile d'Oléron and the Bassin de Marennes. Its construction, decided by Louvois, Minister of War of Louis XIV, was carried out from 1691 to 1694 according to the plans of Vauban. The aim was to cross the cannon fire with the Citadel of Oléron to defend the Rochefort naval arsenal. Designed in the shape of a horseshoe, with a central keep - protected by a drawbridge and a moat, it is reminiscent of the fortified castles of the Middle Ages. It was classified as a historical monument in 1929. Today, Fort Louvois opens its doors for an unusual and surprising visit! At low tide: access on foot via a 400 metre paved road (5 minutes on foot) At high tide: access by boat, from the port of Le Chapus (10 minutes crossing. Rotations every 15 minutes approximately) Opening hours: - April and October: open at low tide only - Easter and All Saints' holidays, May, June, September: open at low tide and/or high tide - July-August: open from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm at low tide and at high tide
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