Île d'Aix
Île-d'Aix
A crescent-shaped island where cars are banned, and the last place Napoleon lived in France. Cycling around the island reveals bays, fortifications and Fort Boyard.
Île d'Aix is about 3 km long and has no private cars. Ferries from the Fouras Pointe de la Fumée pier take about 20 minutes to reach it, and in summer there are also boats from La Rochelle. The village retains Vauban-style ramparts, and the house that now holds the Napoleon Museum was his last residence in France before his exile in 1815. The loop cycling path around the island is about 7 km, passing quiet beaches and pine forests, with views of Fort Boyard in the distance.
Opening hours
Open all day; ferry times per official schedule
Nearby sights
- Fort Boyard
- Châtelaillon-Plage
- Citadelle du Château-d'Oléron
- Port des Minimes
- Musée Maritime de La Rochelle
- Aquarium La Rochelle
- Plage de la Concurrence & Mail
- Tour de la Lanterne