Marennes Oléron

The Citadel of Brouage

Written by Romain

July 24, 2025

Just 9.2 kilometers from our Slow Village in Marennes Oléronthe Citadelle de Brouage invites you on a timeless journey to the heart of the Charente marshes. Listed as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, this ancient fortified town combines heritage, nature and the art of slow living. With its ramparts, art galleries and cobbled streets, Brouage and its citadel can be explored on foot or by bike.

An authentic escape, ideal for extending the Slow village experience in a setting steeped in history and poetry.

Brouage, city of salt and history

Before becomingone of France's most beautiful citadels, Brouage was a prosperous port dedicated to the salt trade, the "white gold" that made its reputation from the 13th century onwards. Strategically located between land and ocean, the Citadelle de Brouage quickly attracted the attention of many.

Fortified in the 16th century to cope with religious conflicts, it became a coveted stronghold, later modernized by Richelieu and then Vauban, the great military architects of their time.
But the Citadelle de Brouage is also an important page in Franco-Canadian history. It was here that Samuel de Champlain, founder of Quebec City and a famous figure in the ties between France and the New World, was born. There are also whispers of Marie Mancini, Mazarin's niece, who lived in Brouage after her affair with the young Louis XIV.

The Citadelle de Brouage, a masterpiece of military architecture

Seen from the air, the Citadelle de Brouage looks like a stone star set against a green carpet of marshland. This star-shaped layout, typical of modern fortifications, bears witness to the military power it once represented. The ramparts, over two kilometers long, form a massive enclosure punctuated by bastions, watchtowers and fortified gates such as the Porte Royale.

Richelieu, then Vauban, left their mark, modernizing the city's defenses according to the most advanced principles of the 17th century. Inside, the Halle aux Vivres, the powder magazine and the Chapelle des Miguens depict the daily life of a garrison ready to resist assault.

An unforgettable visit at the pace of slow tourism

In Brouage, we leave the watch to one side. Every alley invites you to take a stroll, every stone tells a story. The village, entirely pedestrianized, is discovered slowly, along the ramparts, the watchtowers and the views over the surrounding marshes. The silence is disturbed only by the call of birds or the muffled footsteps of visitors.

In the heart of the Citadelle de Brouage, numerous workshops and art galleries have taken over the former barracks: ceramists, painters and craftsmen bring this reinvented heritage to life. The superbly restored Halle aux Vivres hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

On foot or by bike, the Citadelle de Brouage is a delight to explore. It's not uncommon to come across storks, herons and egrets hiding in the nearby marshes. A true corner of paradise for lovers of nature, history and authenticity. An inspiring break just a short wheel ride from our open-air hotel in Marennes Oléron.

How to get to Brouage from Slow Village?

Easily accessible from Slow Village Marennes Oléron, the Citadelle of Brouage can be visited at your own pace.

Access & logistics :

Distance from Slow Village: 9.2 km
Driving time: about 15 minutes
Cycling time: 30 to 40 minutes on pleasant routes
Parking: several free parking lots around the citadel
On site: pedestrian traffic only

Suggested tours :

A walk on the ramparts

Estimated duration: 30 to 45 min
Slow tip: Unobstructed views of the surrounding marshes

Gourmet break

Estimated duration: Free
Slow tip: on-site cafés, tearooms or ice cream parlours

Exhibitions at Halle aux Vivres

Estimated duration: 30 min
Conseil slow: Renewed cultural programming

Galleries and artisan boutiques

Estimated duration: 30 min to 1 h
Conseil slow : Local designers, unique and responsible pieces

A stroll through the narrow streets

Estimated duration: 45 min to 1 h
Slow tip: Let yourself be carried away by the peaceful atmosphere

Nestled between marshes and ramparts, the Citadelle de Brouage is much more than a historical vestige: it's a breath of fresh air. A place where one naturally slows down, carried away by the beauty of the stones, the tranquility of the landscapes and the richness of the heritage.

During your stay at Slow Village in Marennes Oléron, treat yourself to this inspiring interlude, a timeless stroll just a few minutes from your accommodation in the heart of nature!

Book accommodation near the citadel of brouage

Marennes Oléron

Classique Confort 3ch.

Our 3-bedroom Classic Comfort mobile home has all the amenities you need for a rejuvenating stay!

30 m²

3 ea.

6 pers.

1 bathroom.

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Marennes Oléron

Cottage Signature 3bed.

Experience an upscale stay in our 3-bedroom Signature cottage. With its 2 bathrooms and large terrace, live the Slow Life for the duration of your vacation!

40 m²

3 ea.

6 pers.

2 bathrooms.

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Marennes Oléron

Cottage Signature Tribu 4bed.

Wooden, high-end and modern in design, it's fully equipped! The real plus? This accommodation comprises a 3-bedroom cottage, an independent studio and a large terrace to welcome the whole tribe!

62 m²

4 ea.

8 pers.

3 bathrooms.

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Marennes Oléron

Cottage Premium 3ch.

Enjoy a fully-equipped, upscale 3-bedroom wooden cottage. Each premium accommodation has 2 bathrooms, so everyone has their own space!

40 m²

3 ea.

6 pers.

2 bathrooms.

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Marennes Oléron

Cabane Insolite - Studio

Discover our unusual fisherman's hut, a typical and authentic accommodation, ideal for a stopover on the Vélodyssée or a stay in Charente-Maritime.

12 m²

1 bdrm

2 pers.

1 bathroom.

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FAQ - Everything you need to know before visiting the Citadelle of Brouage

What can you see on a visit to the Citadelle de Brouage?

The tour takes in the ramparts, the Halle aux Vivres (food market), art exhibitions, military relics and cobbled streets animated by craftsmen. All in a peaceful, pedestrian setting.

How long does it take to visit Brouage?

Allow between 2 and 3 hours to enjoy the site to the full, taking time to stroll around, climb the ramparts and visit the galleries. Half a day is ideal .

Can families visit Brouage?

Absolutely. The site is ideal for families, with secure access, educational panels and fun discoveries. Children will love the walks along the ramparts and the open spaces around the citadel.

Charlotte

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