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Brouage
Charente-Maritime
Brouage, a fortified town in the heart of the Charente Marshes, a stone bastion between land and sea
Between Rochefort and Île d’Oléron, discover Brouage, a fortified citadel designed by Richelieu in the 17th century and later modernised by Vauban and Ferry. In the heart of the Charente Marshes, this former European capital of salt combines powder magazines, forges and underground ports with artisans’ workshops and charming Charente-style houses.
And did you know that this is where Samuel de Champlain was born in 1574, the great explorer who founded the city of Québec?
A fortress, marshes stretching as far as the eye can see, and the scent of the sea
A powder magazine, sunken harbours, ancient salt marshes… In Brouage, the spirit of the stronghold still lives on, carried on the sea mist of maritime adventures.
OTIOMN
pbvf
Office de Tourisme Bassin de Marennes
Syndicat Mixte de Brouage
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
A Brouage Legend
It is said that Louis XIV, heartbroken, climbed the ramparts of Brouage to mourn his lost love, Marie Mancini, who had been exiled to the citadel by her uncle Mazarin.
Your experiences to live in Brouage
©Charentes Tourism
Let us guide you on your tour
Follow the guide to discover all the secrets and stories of Brouage, from its lost sea to its ramparts and military buildings, and its flora and fauna. Whether you choose the ‘Flash’ version or a tour organised by the League for the Protection of Birds, there’s bound to be a tour to suit you!
©Arthur Habudzik-OTIOMN
Meet the craftspeople
Step inside the art studios that have breathed new life into the salt merchants’ shops of yesteryear and admire the craftsmanship of the artists. Ceramists, painters, glassmakers… There are many talented artists to be found behind the citadel’s ramparts!
©OTIOMN
Exploring the marshes by bike
Hop on your bike for a nature ride through the marshes! Make the most of the peaceful scenery to spot the flora and fauna of these former salt marshes. Keep your eyes peeled
Ideas for everyone, all the time
Treasure hunts
Set off on an adventure with Terrà Aventura and its ‘Stone Star’ trail: a digital treasure hunt in the heart of the citadel! For budding detectives, treasure hunts at the Halle aux Vivres also offer a fun way to explore Brouage.
Horse ride
Treat yourselves to a romantic break on horseback at sunset in the Brouage marshes. A peaceful moment, far from the hustle and bustle, to enjoy some time together in tune with the rhythm of the Charente countryside.
A horse-drawn carriage tour of the town
Fancy exploring Brouage in a different way? Hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage and set off on a lively guided tour – perfect for friends or family. An original way to explore, whilst sitting in comfort.
Immersive exhibition at the Halle aux vivres
Don’t panic when the weather’s grey! Make the most of it and pop along to the Halle aux vivres, where a fun and educational exhibition awaits you. Hands-on activities, audio guides and interactive displays
Our recommendations
Syndicat Mixte de Brouage
Halle aux vivres
Built in 1631, this impressive 67-metre-long hall was used as a storehouse for troops and ships before becoming a powder magazine in 1816. Today, the site hosts exhibitions spread throughout the grounds and buildings.
Map of Brouage
Extend the visit to near Brouage
Mornac-sur-Seudre
(16 km)
Talmont-sur-Gironde
(37 km)
Prepare your stay at Brouage
Office de Tourisme de l'Île d'Oléron et du Bassin de Marennes
Accessibility
Brouage
# Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite : Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite et aux poussettes (sauf remparts)
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélos
# Parking : Stationnement gratuit toute l'année
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-cars à moins de 15 mn à pieds
Labels and rankings of
Brouage
