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Pointe de la Fumée: Gateway to Île d'Aix

Discover coastal beauty and island access at Pointe de la Fumée, Fouras – where oyster farms meet panoramic views of Fort Boyard and Île d'Aix.

Pointe de la Fumée is a narrow peninsula on the northern tip of the Fouras peninsula in Charente-Maritime, France, known for its oyster farming and as the primary embarkation point for Île d'Aix. It offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, including Fort Boyard and Fort Énet.

A brief summary to Pnte de la Fumée

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Local tips

  • Visit during low tide to walk to Fort Énet via the oyster beds, but check tide times beforehand.
  • Arrive early for the ferry to Île d'Aix, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
  • Try the local oysters; Pointe de la Fumée is known for its oyster farms.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Fort Boyard and the surrounding islands, especially at sunset.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Fouras city center, follow signs for Pointe de la Fumée. The drive is straightforward, leading to a large parking area near the ferry terminal. Be aware that the parking is paid from March 1st to November 15th. Payment can be made via credit card, cash, or the Flowbird app. Parking costs vary, but expect to pay around €3-5 per hour, with daily rates available.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses connect Fouras to Pointe de la Fumée. Check the local bus schedule for times and routes. A single bus fare costs around €2. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the ferry terminal.

  • Walking

    If you're in Fouras, consider walking to Pointe de la Fumée. It's a pleasant walk along the coast, taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour from the city center. Follow the coastal path, enjoying the views along the way. No specific costs are involved.

  • Ferry

    To reach Île d'Aix, take the ferry from Pointe de la Fumée. A round-trip ticket for non-residents costs between €11 and €25, depending on the season. Reservations are now mandatory. Check the latest ferry schedule and book in advance, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Pnte de la Fumée

Pointe de la Fumée, located at the northernmost point of the Fouras peninsula, is a captivating destination where land meets the sea. This narrow strip of land is not only a geographical landmark but also a place steeped in history and natural beauty. Historically, the area has been significant for both defense and sustenance. Fort Énet, constructed on a nearby islet, was built to protect Rochefort and its naval base, especially after the Battle of the Basque Roads in 1809. Today, Pointe de la Fumée is renowned for its thriving oyster farming industry, which has been a major economic activity since the 1920s. Visitors to Pointe de la Fumée can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic coast. From this vantage point, one can see Île d'Aix, Fort Boyard, and Fort Énet. At low tide, it's possible to walk to Fort Énet via a 1.6 km path through the oyster beds. The area is also popular for fishing, especially during high tides when traditional fishing methods using carrelets (fishing huts) are employed. The peninsula serves as the main departure point for ferries to Île d'Aix, a charming island known for its historical significance and car-free environment. The crossing provides a short but scenic journey across the bay.

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