Heritage at Le Verdon-sur-Mer
Le Verdon-sur-Mer, located at the tip of the Médoc, boasts a remarkable historical and natural heritage. With its emblematic lighthouses, military remains and unspoilt natural sites, this commune offers visitors a captivating insight into its maritime past and cultural treasures.
Cordouan Lighthouse
The king of lighthouses
Nicknamed the “Versailles of the seas”, the Cordouan lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in France still in operation. Built between 1584 and 1611, it stands majestically at the mouth of the Gironde estuary. Listed as a Historic Monument in 1862, it is accessible by boat from Port Médoc and offers a breathtaking view of the ocean and surrounding coastline.
-
© Clément Chambaud -
-
-
© Clément Chambaud -
-
© David Remazeilles
The Arros fortress
Witness to the Second World War
Close to the beach at Soulac-sur-Mer, the Arros fortress is a poignant reminder of the Second World War. Occupied by German forces until 1945, it was the scene of fierce fighting during the liberation. Today, history buffs can explore the site to gain a better understanding of the events that shaped the region.
The ports
The maritime heart of Le Verdon
Le Verdon-sur-Mer is home to several ports that reflect its rich maritime past.
Port Bloc: located at the Pointe de Grave, this is the departure point for the daily ferry service to Royan.
Port Médoc: a modern, environmentally-friendly marina inaugurated in 2004, this 800-berth marina is the starting point for sea and estuary walks and excursions to the Cordouan lighthouse.
Vieux Port aux Huîtres: in the heart of the village, this picturesque former oyster-farming port has now been converted into a cultural space with artists’ huts and open-air cafés in summer, offering an authentic and friendly atmosphere.
-
© Port Médoc -
-
-
© Port Médoc -
© David Remazeilles -
To find out more
-
Le Port aux Huîtres -
Port Bloc (embarcadère du Bac) -
Port Médoc
Beaches and natural areas
Between ocean and estuary
Le Verdon-sur-Mer offers a wide variety of beaches and natural areas to relax and explore.
La Chambrette Beach : located on the Gironde estuary, this beach is much appreciated by parents for its safety. It’s ideal for families thanks to its calm waters and magnificent views over the Charente coast. It’s also an ideal spot for all kinds of water sports.
Saint-Nicolas beach : a naturist and textile beach facing the Atlantic Ocean, this is a popular spot for surfers and water sports enthusiasts. Its wild side and endless stretch of white sand are much appreciated.
Pine forests and marshes : signposted paths allow you to discover the local flora and fauna, offering walkers and cyclists a varied and unspoilt landscape.
