Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente include a blend of historical landmarks and natural features. Located on the south bank of the Charente estuary, this commune offers insights into its strategic past. The area features significant historical sites and natural reserves, providing diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore both man-made monuments and protected natural environments.
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente
- The most popular attractions is Rochefort Transporter Bridge, a bridge that was inaugurated in 1900 to allow river traffic while also providing a crossing. It is the last working transporter bridge in France and operates for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is Tonnay-Charente Suspension Bridge, a historical bridge that has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times since the Middle Ages. It offers views of the village, the Château des Capucins, and the Charente river.
- Visitors also love Brouage Citadel, a former salt trading port and Catholic war port. This fortified town, once a military port, is now inland and surrounded by marshes, offering insights into its defensive history.
- Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente is known for its historical sites, bridges, and natural reserves. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from 17th-century fortifications to unique engineering marvels.
- The attractions around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 600 upvotes and 216 photos, the komoot community has shared their experiences and insights on these places.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Rochefort Transporter Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
The pylons and bridge deck are fixed. A mobile nacelle is suspended from the deck and circulates between the two banks of the Charente thanks to a trolley.
The transporter bridge operated from 1900 to 1967, then was replaced by a lift bridge, itself destroyed in 1991. The transporter bridge has resumed service and now allows pedestrians and cyclists to cross for €2 or €3 each way -feedback.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Tonnay-Charente Suspension Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Brouage Citadel
Highlight • Castle
A military port on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean until the beginning of the 18th century, the town is today inland and surrounded by marshes.
Attention: inside the citadel the streets are almost exclusively paved.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Arsenal entrance
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Soubise
Highlight • Settlement
At an altitude of 13 meters, on a spur overlooking the Charente which naturally lends itself to defense, there was a castle with a village enclosed by a surrounding wall like on the other bank at Rochefort. The castle is attested from 1092 with a first siege, and its destruction by a first fire.
It is one of the first rocky banks encountered coming from the sea, on the left (south) bank of the Charente. On a seal dated 1383 there is this inscription in Latin: “subissia prima urbs insularum est sub borea” which can be translated as: “Soubise is the first town in the lee of the islands”. This is why in 1665, Jean-Baptiste Colbert proposed to the Duke of Rohan to sell his lordship or exchange it with the king to build a war port to arm and repair ships to protect them from attacks. English, but he refused and the project was finally carried out in Rochefort which is further from the estuary with a smaller draft.
fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soubise_(Charente-Maritime)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente
Tips from the Community
A very beautiful archway!
2
0
Impressive bridge. Well worth seeing!
1
0
A truly interesting bridge. It's worth a stop.
1
0
Almost obligatory passage to cross the Charente, but it’s worth the detour
0
0
fortified village, former port of departure for the Americas, today it is located approximately 1.5km from the shore...
0
0
Compensating for the needs of the Charentais who were formerly obliged to use the ferry to reach the other bank of the river, the bridge was built in 1842 with the constraint of not disrupting the passage of tall sailing ships to Tonnay-Charente in order to allow the port fluvial to continue its activity linked to the transport of salt, wines and spirits. With its 620 m long, it is one of the oldest suspension bridges in Europe. The deck, 204 m long and 5 m wide, is supported by 51 pointed arches and overlooks the river at a height of 23 m. Originally made of wood, it collapsed in 1884 and was replaced by a metal structure. The increase in road traffic eventually weakened the structure and it was closed to all traffic in the 1960s. After numerous rehabilitation works, it is now reopened, but reserved for pedestrians and cyclists. New restoration work is planned to begin at the end of 2023, because its structure remains fragile and its maintenance weighs heavily on the accounts of the small town of Tonnay-Charente.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Brouage Citadel, a former salt trading port and military stronghold. Another significant site is the Arsenal entrance in Rochefort, a monumental archway leading to the historic arsenal. Further afield, explore Fort Lupin, a 17th-century fortification built to defend the Arsenal of Rochefort, or the historic Église Saint-Nazaire.
Are there any unique bridges to see in the area?
Yes, the area is known for its remarkable bridges. The Rochefort Transporter Bridge is a must-see, being the last working transporter bridge in France, still operating for pedestrians and cyclists. You can also visit the Tonnay-Charente Suspension Bridge, which offers beautiful views of the village, the Château des Capucins, and the Charente river.
What natural features and reserves are there to visit?
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Réserve Naturelle de Moëze-Oléron and the Réserve Naturelle des Marais de Brouage, both offering opportunities to experience the local ecosystem. The Marais de Fouras, north of Saint-Pierre, is another natural area known for its birdlife, including herons and storks.
What outdoor activities can I do near Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous walking and cycling routes to explore the natural beauty. For specific trails, check out the Hiking around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente guide, or if you prefer cycling, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the vicinity?
Many attractions are suitable for families. The Rochefort Transporter Bridge is a unique experience for all ages, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to cross. The Brouage Citadel also offers an engaging historical exploration for families. The nearby settlement of Soubise is another family-friendly spot, known for its river shuttle to Rochefort.
What cultural sites are available near Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente?
Beyond the immediate area, the nearby city of Rochefort boasts several cultural attractions. These include La Corderie Royale, a grand 17th-century rope factory, and L'Hermione, a replica of the 18th-century frigate. You can also visit the Musée des Commerces d'Autrefois or the Musée National de la Marine de Rochefort for a deeper dive into local history and maritime heritage.
Can I find mountain biking trails around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente?
Absolutely! There are several mountain biking opportunities in the area. You can discover various routes by consulting the MTB Trails around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente guide, which includes trails like the 'Rochefort-Soubise shuttle – Rochefort Transporter Bridge loop'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions here?
Visitors frequently highlight the unique engineering marvels and the rich historical context of the region. The Rochefort Transporter Bridge is often praised for its historical significance and the experience of crossing it. The views from the Tonnay-Charente Suspension Bridge are also a favorite, offering picturesque scenery of the Charente river and surrounding villages.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Rochefort Transporter Bridge is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing a wider range of visitors to experience this unique historical landmark.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente for outdoor activities?
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities during spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer also offers good conditions, especially for water-based activities and enjoying the coastal areas, though it can be busier.
Are there any fortifications or forts to visit nearby?
Yes, besides Fort Lupin, you can explore Fort Vauban in Fouras, a military fort a short distance away. Another notable fortification is Fort de l'Île Madame, strategically located between Aix and Madame, with structures dating back to 1685.
Where can I find viewpoints to enjoy the scenery?
Both the Rochefort Transporter Bridge and the Tonnay-Charente Suspension Bridge offer excellent viewpoints of the Charente river and the surrounding landscape. The Tour de Broue, near the Marais de Brouage, also provides an exceptional view over the ancient gulf, now a protected marshland.
Most popular routes around Saint-Nazaire-Sur-Charente
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
