
Nothing says seaside holidays than a morning stroll through the market, basket in hand, amid the smells of salt, mature cheeses and sun-kissed fruit.
À Châtelaillon-Plagemarkets are a veritable institution: they embody the art of living in the city. Charente-MaritimeA unique blend of conviviality, fresh produce and local expertise.
Whether you're a lover of good food, curious about regional specialities or simply looking for a typically coastal atmosphere, here are the markets not to be missed during your stay in Châtelaillon-Plage and the surrounding area.
Le covered market at Châtelaillon-Plage is a real living postcard. Under its brightly-lit market hall, around twenty shopkeepers welcome you.
You'll find :
From fresh fish fished in the Atlantic, arriving in the early hours of the morning from neighbouring ports;
From oysters and bouchot mussels des Boucholeurs ;
From seasonal fruit and vegetablesoften from local producers;
From goat's cheese, traditional charcuterie and Charentais wines ;
And of course, regional sweets: salted butter caramels, galettes charentaises or pineau des Charentes.
👉 After your visit, take a seat on one of the nearby terraces to sample your spoils or enjoy a coffee while watching the local life.
From Hotel VictoriaIt's just a few minutes' walk to the covered market: a must-do on your first morning.
The days of open-air marketThe centre of Châtelaillon comes alive even more. The narrow streets are filled with woven baskets, bicycles parked along the pavements and colourful stalls overflowing with flowers, clothes, accessories and craft specialities.
This market combines fresh produce and street vendors from all over the department. You'll also find :
from handmade jewellery and local crafts,
than takeaway stands (paella, mussels, roast chicken, accras...).
It's the perfect place to soak up the holiday atmosphere and chat with producers.
Many holidaymakers make their picnic races before a day at the beach or a cycling trip.
Le Boucholeurs oyster farming villagesouth of Châtelaillon, is a little jewel between sea and marsh.
Sound Sunday market is smaller, but full of charm. Here, people come as much to seafood products than for strolling pleasure in a typically Charente setting.
You will be able to :
Enjoy fresh oysters direct from the producers;
Buy salt from the Ile de Réand fish rillettesor marsh honey ;
Admire the view of the squares and the Fort Boyard in the distance ;
And even enjoy a glass of chilled white wine terrace overlooking the ocean.
This more confidential market appeals to lovers of authenticity. It is ideal for a peaceful sunday morningbefore a walk along the coastal path linking Châtelaillon to Yves.
For only 15 minutes from Châtelaillonthe La Rochelle central market is an experience in its own right. Housed in a superb 19th-century market hall, it attracts locals and visitors alike.
It includes :
From ultra-fresh fish and shellfish from the port of Chef-de-Baie ;
From cheese makers, butchers and primeurs reputed ;
From exotic catering stands ;
And outside, dozens of itinerant traders offering clothing, crafts and specialities from the South-West.
On Saturday mornings, the neighbouring terraces are bursting with life. It's the perfect place to go shopping before lunch in the Old Port or a visit to the Aquarium.
In July and August, the seaside resort takes on a festive air with its night markets.
Under the lanterns and garlands, you can stroll between local designers, handcrafted jewellery, beachwear and food stalls.
This is your chance to :
Taste a crêpe or homemade ice cream admiring the sunset;
Buy a local memory to take home;
Take advantage of free concerts and entertainment on the seafront.
A happy, family atmosphere, just a stone's throw from Hotel Victoriaperfect for a gentle end to the day.
If you fancy exploring a little further afield, there are several nearby villages well worth a visit:
Fouras-les-Bains Market every morning in summer, 20 minutes' drive away. Very lively and typically seaside.
Rochefort Covered market from Tuesday to Sunday, with local produce and antique shops.
Angoulins-sur-Mer A small, friendly market, perfect for a stop-off after a bike ride along the coast.
Markets are an integral part of local culture. Shopping here also means take the time to chat, listen to the Charentais accent and smell the local produce and share a simple, genuine moment.
Come rain or shine, the market remains a must-do activity during your holiday in Châtelaillon-PlageA place that's just as enjoyable on its own as it is with the whole family.
After a morning of gourmet discoveries, what better way to relax than at theVictoria Hotel ?
Located in the heart of Châtelaillon-Plage, just a few steps from the covered market, it is the ideal starting point for exploring the city on foot.
Its peaceful atmosphere, comfortable rooms and attentive welcome make it the perfect choice for those who want to relax. a choice address for enjoying the Charente spirit to the full.
Châtelaillon covered market: every morning except Monday
Open-air market: Tuesday and Friday mornings
Marché des Boucholeurs: Sunday mornings in summer
Night market: several evenings a week in July and August
Nearby markets: La Rochelle, Fouras, Rochefort, Angoulins
13 Av. du Général Leclerc, 17340 Châtelaillon-Plage, France