Royan: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
On the sun-drenched Arvert Peninsula, the coastal town of Royan welcomes you. Among some Belle Epoque buildings, you will discover many structures built in the modern style. After all, Royan was largely destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in a contemporary style.
Table of contents
Royan - Must-see attractions
La Coubre Lighthouse
The easiest way to reach the La Coubre lighthouse is by bicycle. It is surrounded by dense pine forests, through which the Vélodyssée bike path runs. Inside the lighthouse, you climb the 300 steps that lead all the way to the top. From the top of the lighthouse, you have a wonderful view all the way to the Île d'Oléron and over the wild and romantic Côte Sauvage. In the museum, you can learn more about the history and features of the La Coubre lighthouse.
Grande Conche Beach
Along its long coastline of golden-yellow sand, both swimmers and sunbathers, as well as walkers, feel comfortable at Grand Conche Beach. The beach is easily accessible by car and has a parking lot. With its clear, turquoise water and gently sloping shore, the wave-protected beach is ideal for small children or inexperienced swimmers. In the surrounding area, bathers will find cafes and restaurants as well as other picturesque sandy beaches.
Our Lady of the Angels
The present church was built between the 10th and 11th centuries. In modern times, some renovations were carried out that left the historical charm of the chapel untouched. Thanks to the expansions, significantly more believers can find a place here today. From the Chapel Notre-Dame des Anges, you can enjoy a picturesque panoramic view over the Massif des Maures and the sea coast. The community of Royan invites you to stroll through the historic center, and Bordeaux in the south is a popular excursion destination.
Pontaillac
You can reach the beach of Pontaillac by car – parking is available. Numerous bike paths also invite you to take a trip to the beach. Flat hiking trails around Pontaillac are ideal for families with children. You can find relaxation in Pontaillac on the beach promenade, which offers a nice view from Café Iguana, for example. The surf club, founded in 2009, is a popular meeting point for water sports enthusiasts. The mini-golf course near the beach offers 18 playing stations.
Cordouan Lighthouse
The Cordouan Lighthouse from the year 1611 stands at the mouth of the Gironde in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region on a rocky plateau and is about 68 meters high with six floors. On the ground floor are the impressive marble royal chambers and a chapel. As a sea lighthouse, the Cordouan Lighthouse is more or less completely in the sea depending on the tide. For a visit, boats come as close as possible, so that it is only about a 10-minute walk afterward.
Royan Museum
You visit the place directly at the Old Market and learn more about the history of the city inside. The exhibition deals with the German occupation during the Second World War and how people coped with this situation. The Royan Museum tells very profoundly about the years 1940 to 1945 in the small town and shows small excerpts from the lives of the people. One of them was Pablo Picasso, who experienced the beginning of the Second World War in Royan.
Royan - Secret spots
Estuary Park
The hidden gem near Royan is the Parc de l'Estuaire. This breathtaking nature park offers a unique blend of art and nature. Interestingly, it also houses a modern environmental center dedicated to the preservation of local flora and fauna. A must for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Caves of Matata
Near Royan lies a mysterious treasure, the Grottes de Matata. These natural caves, inhabited since prehistoric times, offer a breathtaking view of the Gironde estuary. Interestingly, they now house a charming hotel and a museum that tells their rich history.
Shell Beach of Saint-Georges-de-Dido
The Conche Beach in Saint-Georges-de-Didonne is an undiscovered paradise. This breathtaking beach, surrounded by majestic cliffs, offers an idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure. Interestingly, it is also the place where the first French underwater rugby game took place, highlighting its uniqueness.
Saint Peter's Church of Royan
The Eglise Saint-Pierre in Royan is a hidden masterpiece of modern architecture. This unique building, constructed after the Second World War, is a symbol of rebirth and hope. It is remarkable that the church is made of concrete, which was a revolutionary construction method at the time.
Royan - In 3 days
Day 1
Start your first day in Royan with a leisurely stroll along the Promenade de la Côte de Beauté. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Atlantic and the fresh sea breeze. Then visit the Marché Central, a lively market where you can find fresh local products and handmade souvenirs. Be sure to try some of the regional specialties like oysters and seafood. After visiting the market, a detour to the Église Notre-Dame de Royan is recommended, an impressive example of modern architecture. Be enchanted by the unique construction and colorful stained glass windows. In the afternoon, you can relax at Grande Conche Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Here you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the view. For dinner, you should visit a local bistro to try the delicious French cuisine. End the day with a glass of regional wine and a magnificent sunset.
Day 2
Today, visit the Jardin des Retours, a beautiful botanical garden perfect for a morning walk. Enjoy the tranquility and the variety of plant species found here. Afterwards, a trip to the Zoo de la Palmyre, one of France's most famous zoos, is recommended. Here you can observe a variety of exotic animals and learn more about species conservation. The zoo is particularly family-friendly and offers numerous interactive experiences. After an exciting morning at the zoo, you can relax in the Parc de l'Estuaire. This nature park offers wonderful hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Gironde estuary. Pack a picnic and enjoy nature to the fullest. In the evening, you should definitely try the local fish cuisine. A cozy dinner with freshly caught fish and seafood perfectly rounds off your day. End the evening with a walk along the illuminated promenade.
Day 3
First, explore the Musée de Royan today, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region. Discover the fascinating exhibitions and learn more about the past of this charming coastal town. After visiting the museum, take a trip to the Phare de Cordouan, one of the oldest lighthouses in France. Take a boat tour there and enjoy the breathtaking view from the top of the lighthouse. At lunchtime, return to a cozy café at the harbor and try fresh seafood or other local specialties. In the afternoon, visit Planet Exotica, a fascinating leisure center with exotic plants and animals, ideal for families and people of all ages. End the day with a romantic dinner in a restaurant with a sea view. Enjoy fresh seafood and regional wine while watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
Royan - Climate
Royan has a mild climate year-round. For the peak season in July and August, it is best to book the holiday apartment in advance: Mild temperatures of around 25 to 26 degrees on average attract many bathers. The water temperature is around 22 degrees Celsius from June to September. With an average of 19 mm, the least rainfall occurs in August and September. From October to May, you should expect seven to nine days of rain per month. Pleasant weather awaits you from May to August with nine or ten hours of sunshine per day.