Fort Louvois
Dates & opening times
Lundi, Mardi, Mercredi, Jeudi, Vendredi, Samedi, Dimanche : ouvert
accessible à pied à marée basse et en bateau à marée haute (selon la saison).
Description
This 17th-century maritime fortification was built on a rock submerged at high tide, between the Ile d'Oléron and the Bassin de Marennes. Its construction, ordered by Louvois, Louis XIV's Minister of War, took place between 1691 and 1694, based on plans by Vauban.
The aim was to cross cannon fire with the Citadelle d'Oléron to defend the Rochefort naval arsenal. Designed in the shape of a horseshoe, with a central keep - protected by a drawbridge and moat - it is reminiscent of the fortified castles of the Middle Ages.
It was listed as a historic monument in 1929.
Today, Fort Louvois opens its doors to you for an unusual and surprising visit!
At low tide: access on foot via a 400-meter paved road (5-minute walk).
At high tide: access by boat, from the port of Le Chapus (10-minute crossing. Rotations every 15 min. approx.)
Opening hours :
Access on foot at low tide and by boat at high tide.
Schedules on the website
Characteristics
Charges
Terms & Conditions : Your ticket is valid all day, for one person. Rates valid until November 1, 2026. We do not make reservations for individual visits. Our rates include : Your free admission to Fort Louvois. Boat trip at high tide included in your admission. Terms of payment : - Cash - Cheques - CREDIT CARD - Vacation vouchers
Contact
Your data is used exclusively by us to distribute our Information. They are neither shared nor sold to third parties. In conformity with the European and French laws in force, notable law no. 78-17 of 6 January 1978 on Computers, files and liberties, the Tourism Office informs you that you have the general right of access, correction and removal of the entirety of your personal information which we possess. You can exercise your right by contacting: L'Office de Tourisme de l'Ile d'Oléron et du Bassin de Marennes - 22 rue Dubois Meynardie 17320 Marennes, tel: +33 (0) 5 46 85 65 23
