Mornac-sur-Seudre, a medieval craftsmen’s village in the heart of the Charente salt marshes
Between the Seudre and the Atlantic, Mornac-sur-Seudre is a typical village on the Charente coast, with its houses featuring white façades and coloured shutters, adorned with hollyhocks. A former fishing port, now a major centre for oyster farming and salt production, it now lives to the rhythm of its salt marshes. Stroll beneath the market halls, pop into the artists’ studios, then head to the harbour to enjoy a unique view of the estuary.
The flavours of the Charente marshes
Salt, oysters and a medieval past: a stroll through Mornac-sur-Seudre takes you through its flower-lined alleyways for a traditional experience amidst the marshes.
Word of Mouth
In 1943, lightning struck the bell tower in Mornac-sur-Seudre. Students who had come to take part in the archaeological excavations were so charmed by the village that they decided to stay and set up the first craft workshops.
Your experiences to live in Mornac-sur-Seudre
Meet the craftspeople
Need a gift idea, or are you simply passionate about creativity and craftsmanship? Then the artisans’ workshops are the place for you! Jewellery, paintings, pottery… you’re bound to find just what you’re looking for! And every Thursday evening in the summer, a night market invites you to discover all their talents.
©Jean-Marc Mordacq
A stroll past the fishermen’s huts
Follow the little road along the Seudre to the harbour and admire the colourful fishermen’s huts. At the mouth of the estuary, enjoy a moment of absolute tranquillity: Mornac certainly lives up to its name, meaning ‘calm waters’.
©Mornac-sur-Seudre Town Hall
Board the Train des Mouettes
Climb aboard this legendary steam train for a journey along the Seudre estuary. Salt marshes and oyster-farming landscapes roll by at 25 km/h. And why not enjoy dinner in the dining car to savour some local specialities?
©Thierry Avan – Royan Atlantique Tourist Office
Have a drink at the harbour
Take a seat at one of the café terraces by the harbour and watch the boats come in through the channel, past the fishermen’s huts. A simple pleasure to savour over a morning coffee or an evening aperitif, when the lights are at their most beautiful!
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026
Exposition "L'Huître Pédagogique"
Outdoor exhibition on the marshes of Mornac-sur-Seudre.
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026
Exposition "Mornaçons d'hier et d'aujourd'hui"
Outdoor exhibition on the inhabitants of Mornac-sur-Seudre, past and present, its past and present.
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026 from 8 a.m.
Marché de Mornac-sur-Seudre
Food market and local products under the halls on Wednesdays from 8am to 1pm. On Wednesday mornings "Chez Mimi" will be present under the market to propose you its cooked dishes.
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
Open every day
From Oct. 24, 2026 to Oct. 25, 2026 from 9 a.m.
Grand Prix de Mornac'O
On October 24 and 25, 2026, the town of Mornac-sur-Seudre will host the first edition of the Mornac Grand Prix?O, a sporting, family-friendly, and festive event combining cycling and pétanque, in which participants compete in teams of two. Open to everyone, including children as young as 3 years old
Next dates:
- From 10/24/2026 to 10/25/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 27, 2026 from 10 a.m.
À la découverte de Royan Atlantique et des secrets de Christophe, fileur de verre
Join Guillaume on a unique tour where local heritage and craftsmanship come together. An exploration of the region’s history through its iconic sites and monuments.
Next dates:
- 10/27/2026
Open every day
The Oct. 28, 2026 from 10 a.m.
À la découverte de Royan Atlantique et des secrets de la poterie "Fleurs des champs"
We follow Caroline on a unique tour where heritage and local know-how meet. An exploration of the region?s history through its emblematic sites and monuments.
Next dates:
- 10/28/2026
Open every day
The Dec. 5, 2026 from 8:30 p.m.
Aurore Voilque Quartet
Aurore Voilqué, an outstandingly creative jazz singer and violinist, unveils her new album alongside her top-flight partners: Sébastien Giniaux, guitar; Yannis Constants, guitar; Marcello Marella, double bass.
Next dates:
- 12/05/2026
Open every day
"A Pinch of Salt in My Gabelle" Treasure Hunt
Set off on an adventure with this Tèrra Aventura geocaching trail! Search for the “Zéchopp” poï’z and immerse yourself in the history of salt whilst having fun exploring the narrow streets and the harbour. A fun and original way for children to learn more about the village!
Cycling routes
Make the most of the cycle paths and signposted routes to explore Mornac and the surrounding area. Take the ‘Flow vélo’, a greenway linking the Dordogne to the Charente coast, or set off on ‘les chemins de la Seudre’ (hybrid bike route No. 9) for a 30 km ride (3½ hours) to La Tremblade, or set off on a 110 km excursion to Mortagne-sur-Gironde, returning on the Train des Mouettes.
Sunset cruise on the Seudre
Climb aboard the Aigrette II and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of the marshes bathed in the soft light of the setting sun. Enjoy a seafood platter or dinner whilst cruising along the waterways for a romantic evening.
The Sentiers Détours
As you wander the paths of Mornac-sur-Seudre, take in the local flora and fauna: herons and egrets against the backdrop of the Charente countryside. These easy walks immerse you in the world of salt farming and the old clam-fishing village. There are three themed walks on offer, ranging from 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding
Fancy a bit of nature and some refreshing thrills? Hire a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and explore the salt marshes and the estuary from a different angle. Mornac’s natural heritage unfolds as you paddle along, making for a convivial and unforgettable afternoon.
Map of Mornac-sur-Seudre
Prepare your stay at Mornac-sur-Seudre
Office de Tourisme Royan Atlantique
Accessibility
Mornac-sur-Seudre
# Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite : Village accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite et aux poussettes
# Parking : Stationnement payant ou partiellement payant en fonction de la période et de la situation
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélo
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : à moins de 15 mn à pieds
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