The Isle of Aix ( Île d’Aix in French) is just a short ferry ride from Fouras, on the west coast of France, but worlds away.
It’s a small island with only 200 inhabitants but a popular day trip with tourists during the summer months.
The Isle of Aix is best experienced before and after all the tourists have arrived. Then you’ll have romantic alcoves and long stretches of beaches all to yourself. I highly recommend spending a night there.
Automobiles are not allowed on the island without special permission.
The island is small so everyone walks or cycles their way around. I cycled around the island in just over an hour at a leisurely pace.
The highlights on the island include the Fort Liédot, a former military prison and a couple of museums.
But it’s not about sightseeing on the Isle of Aix, it’s about experiencing it:
Fresh mussels eaten sea-side.
When I reflect back on my time on the Isle of Aix, what I remember most was how I felt: happy, relaxed, at ease, stress-free….and the most incredible sunsets:
Know Before You Go to the Isle of Aix:
- The island can be reached from Fouras year round or from La Rochelle or Oléron during the summer.
- I stayed at the l’hôtel Napoléon (Hotel Napoleon) and would recommend it. It’s an eclectic mix of classical and contemporary designs. The restaurant is also really good. I especially enjoyed dining on the outdoor terrace.
- It’s worth renting a bike, even if you’re just visiting for the day. It’s a great way to see the island. The bike rentals are on the main path into town. You can’t miss them.
- Bring a good book, the alcoves and beaches are great places to relax.
- You may also be interested in What Not to Miss in Poitou-Charentes, France my article on TravelDudes.
- Contact Tourism Poitou-Charentes for further information.
Thank you to TravelDudes and to Tourism Poitou-Charentes for making my visit possible. As always, all opinions expressed are my own.
I’d never heard of the place but it sure sounds ideal for some R&R. Even though I’ve been in prime fresh oyster country in France I’ve never eaten them.
Leigh recently posted..Hoodoo Mania in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
So there’s about 200 residents, yet what looks to be almost 400 rental bikes lined up and ready to go? I know tourists bring money, but the locals must breathe a sigh of relief every time the last ferry back pulls out at night.
Steve recently posted..We’re Spending Christmas at Disneyland Again
@Leigh – I had never heard of it either, but it makes for a wonderful getaway.
@Steve – I’m quite sure they do. At least it’s not very touristy for most of the year, just during the summer months. Even when it’s busy with tourists though the beaches surprisingly weren’t that busy when I was there.
I’ve been to Aix en Provence several times and thought this was near there, but it is on the west coast. Looks very harmonious and relaxing.
Italian Notes recently posted..Piazza delle Erbe in Mantova
Sigh. Throw this on my list of places to go. Looks uber relaxing and peaceful. Great pics.
@K. Robinson – Isle of Aix should definitely be on your list of places to go. I had never heard of it before, but I loved it.
Only 200 residents? They must feel totally overwhelmed by all the visitors they get. It’s a charming place though.
Sounds like the perfect getaway! I’ll keep it on my list of to-visit places
Madaboutravel recently posted..Mad About Castilla La Mancha: #ABexperience Blogtrip a Albacete (2)
You know France better than I do! Never heard of that place, but it looks cool. No car? I’d love that!
Zhu recently posted..Fall Leaves
This is the kind of place I like to travel something small like Isle of Aix which can be toured in short period of time. I like the beach and the food! Perfect for romantic couples.
Worldwide Vacation recently posted..Top 5 Things to do in Memphis
@Worldwide Vacation – Exactly, Isle of Aix, can be done in a day, although I really recommend staying overnight and it was very romantic!
There are so many islands to explore that I’ve never heard of until recently! This one looks like a great place to spend a short break!
Jennifer recently posted..Cochem and the Moselle River Valley
@Jennifer – I know what you mean, I had never heard of this one either, but loved its laid-back vibe.