The site highlights the region's oyster farming heritage, with its oyster hutsand unique landscapes. You can also visit the chemin des clairesa pathway along the edge of the marshes. It offers a breathtaking view of the oyster breeding basins and the typical landscapes of the region. The experience is enriched by interpretation points that explain the importance of marshes for the local ecosystem and for the production of the famous Marennes-Oléron oysters. The site raises visitors' awareness of the best practices to adopt to preserve this fragile environment and ensure the long-term future of oyster farming.
A voyage of discovery and tradition
At the Cité de l'Huître de Marennesthe Cité de l'Huître de Marennes offers a unique tour of the history of the Marennes-Oléron oyster and the local oyster industry. Start your day with a tour of the oyster-farming industry: discover the reconstructed oyster huts showing the different stages in oyster farming, from spat collection to maturing in oyster beds. L'museum area houses an interactive exhibition on the history of oyster farming, with videos, models and historical objects. The tour also includes meetings with local professionals, who reveal the secrets of their trade.
Then continue your discovery by exploring the marsh. Follow a signposted trail that winds its way through the refinery clearings, offering unique scenery and the chance to observe the local flora and fauna.
End your visit with a tasting of Marennes Oléron oysters renowned for their quality and unique flavor. You can even try your hand atoyster opening at one of our hands-on workshops. This blend of learning and pleasure makes the Cité de l'Huître a must-see destination for the whole family.
Plan your visit to the Cité de l'Huître
Located on the chemin de la Cayenne à Marennes6.2 km from theSlow Village Marennes Oléron open-air hotel, the Cité de l'Huître is easily accessible and offers a wide range of facilities for a pleasant visit. It is open all year round, with opening hours that depending on the season. In summer, it welcomes visitors from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, while in low season, opening hours are adapted to daylight.
Tickets are attractively priced at around 9 for adults, 7 € for childrenwith reduced rates for families and groups. The average visit lasts 2 to 3 hoursideal for discovering all aspects of oyster farming, from the marshes to the museum area.
Free parkingincluding spaces reserved for the disabled, facilitates access. Toilets are available on site for the convenience of visitors. Please note that pets are not allowed, even on a leash, with the exception of assistance dogs.
After a day rich in discoveries, at the Cité de l'Huîtreextend your stay in an enchanting setting at theopen-air hotel Slow Village Marennes Oléron. This haven of peace offers eco-responsible, comfortable accommodation that's perfectly integrated into the surrounding natural environment. Thanks to our sustainable approach and our commitment to preserving natural sites, Slow Village is the ideal choice for an authentic, environmentally friendly holiday. for authentic, environmentally-friendly vacations..
