Royan: The Pearl of the Atlantic
A 2026 Guide to the Côte de Beauté
🛒 The Central Market (Le Marché Central)
Voted one of the most beautiful markets in France, this shell-shaped concrete masterpiece is the heart of local life.
What to Buy: Marennes-Oléron oysters, fresh Atlantic sea bass, and local goat cheeses.
Local Tip: Visit on Wednesday or Sunday when the stalls expand into the surrounding streets.
🏰 Must-See Historic & Modern Sites
A concrete "cathedral" built in 1958. Its jagged, modernist silhouette is the symbol of Royan’s post-war rebirth.
Located in an old market hall in Pontaillac, it covers the city’s history from its 19th-century bathing era to Picasso’s time here.
A masterpiece of 1950s architecture overlooking the sea, listed as a historic monument.
The "King of Lighthouses." A UNESCO site accessible by boat from the port—unmissable for the views.
🏖️ The Five Beaches (Conches)
Royan’s coastline is divided into "conches" (sheltered sandy coves):
- La Grande Conche: The main 2km city beach with its iconic 1950s striped tents.
- Pontaillac: The upscale district home to the Casino and the best surf breaks.
- Le Chay & Foncillon: Smaller, family-friendly coves perfect for a sheltered swim.
🚌 Getting Around: Cara’Bus
While Royan lacks a tram, the Cara’Bus network is efficient and cheap.
- Line 3: Connects the Train Station to the Market and the Seafront.
- Ticket Price: €2.00 per trip (buy from the driver or on the Cara’Bus app).
- Bikes: Use the Vélo Modalis app to rent self-service bikes from the station or port.
Royan: The 1950s Seaside Gem
A 2026 Tourist & History Guide
🛒 The Central Market (Le Marché Central)
Free Entry
One of France’s most iconic buildings. Viewed from above, its concrete roof looks like a giant open parachute or seashell.
Best time to visit: Wednesday and Sunday mornings are the busiest and most vibrant. Don’t leave without trying the local Pineau des Charentes.
⛪ Notre-Dame de Royan
This isn’t your typical French church. Built entirely of raw concrete in the 1950s, it looks like a futuristic ship. Its soaring interior is designed to let in massive amounts of Atlantic light. It is now a listed Historic Monument.
🚂 The "Train des Mouettes" (Seagull Train)
A must-do for families and history buffs. This steam train runs on the oldest railway line in the region (opened in 1876).
2026 Quick Info:
- Route: Runs 21km between Saujon (15 mins from Royan) and La Tremblade.
- The Experience: Open-air carriages pulled by an authentic 19th-century steam engine.
- 2026 Tickets: Adults approx. €16.00 / Children €8.00. (Tickets are valid for the whole day - hop on and off!)
- Don’t Miss: The "Market Train" on Saturday mornings during July and August.
🏛️ The Royan Museum (Musée de Royan)
Located in the heart of the Pontaillac district, this museum is housed in an old covered market. It tells the story of Royan’s two lives: the elegant Belle Époque resort of the 1800s and the modernist laboratory of the 1950s.
Picasso fans: There is a dedicated section on Pablo Picasso’s stay in Royan during 1939-1940.
🌅 Scenic Walks & Views
A coastal path starting at Pontaillac beach. Follow the cliffs to see the traditional "Carrelets" (fishing huts on stilts).
The "Versailles of the Seas." Take a boat from the port to visit this UNESCO lighthouse in the middle of the estuary.
The Five Conches of Royan
Which beach is right for you?
La Grande Conche
2.6km of fine sand stretching from the port. Famous for its blue-and-white striped tents (available for rent). It’s south-facing and sheltered, making the water very calm—ideal for families with small children.
Plage de Pontaillac
The "chic" beach. It faces the Atlantic swell, so it’s the only urban beach where you’ll see surfers. Home to the Casino and lined with trendy ice-cream parlors and cafés.
Plage de Foncillon
Located right next to the port and the ferry terminal. It’s smaller and very easy to access if you’re staying in the town center. Great for a quick dip before lunch.
Plage du Chay
A beautiful, sheltered cove nestled between limestone cliffs. It feels more "natural" and secluded than the others. Be careful: at high tide, the sand almost completely disappears!
Plage du Pigeonnier
The smallest and quietest of the five. Mostly used by locals who live in the surrounding villas. Perfect if you want to avoid the summer crowds and just read a book in peace.
