Les Mathes: Nature, History and Water Sports

A stay in Les Mathes can focus on different things: wildlife watching at Zoo de La Palmyre, cycling, local history, water sports or markets. If you’re looking for a hotel in Les Mathes, first consider which theme you want your trip to centre on. Local highlights range from the woodland setting around the zoo to markets held on set dates.

Zoo, Forest and Cycling Routes

Zoo de La Palmyre is home to more than 1,600 mammals, birds and reptiles from 110 different species. It is set in an 18-hectare pine forest, making the wildlife and woodland setting equally central to the visitor experience. The zoo is open year-round, including public holidays. Opening arrangements can change, so check the latest visitor information before your visit.

Les Mathes has nearly 40 kilometres of cycling routes, offering opportunities for both sporting and family outings in a natural setting. Cycling is therefore a distinct focus to consider when planning your trip, whether you have a sporty ride or a family outing in mind. The Forêt de la Coubre offers a different perspective on the landscape: its origins date back to the planting of the dunes, which began in 1824 to curb the movement of sand. The history of dune planting thus adds a historical dimension to the nature and outdoor activity themes.

Water Sports and Swimming Plans

Base Nautique La Palmyre offers windsurfing, kitesurfing, wingfoiling and stand-up paddleboarding in the Bay of Bonne Anse. A large sandbank shelters the bay from the Atlantic swell. The Base Nautique also lists catamaran sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and wingfoiling among its specialities. If water sports are part of your plans, you’ll find several specific activities here; you can contact the Base Nautique in advance for details about a particular activity.

The bathing waters at the beaches of Les Mathes-La Palmyre are classified as “Excellent” in seasonal monitoring. Check the latest bathing water information before swimming. This is separate from the swimming ban in the access channel to La Palmyre harbour. Follow the current signs and local conditions there.

Bicycles are prohibited year-round in the dunes and their surrounding areas, as well as on the beach within the Bay of Bonne Anse. As municipal regulations may be updated, check the beach signs before your visit.

Local History and Markets

The Église Saint-Cyr et Sainte-Julitte was first mentioned in 1043. Its nave was extended; construction of the bell tower and porch began in 1870, and the work was completed in 1911. An early historical record and construction work from the 19th and early 20th centuries thus mark distinct periods in the church’s history.

A market is scheduled in Les Mathes on Friday mornings year-round; an additional market is held on Tuesdays from 1 July to 31 August. In La Palmyre, daytime markets take place on Wednesday and Sunday mornings from 5 April to 30 September. Night markets are held on Wednesdays from 6 p.m. from 17 June to 26 August; additional dates are listed for 1, 8 and 15 May. The market days and periods listed are scheduled for 2026. Check the market days in effect during your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Vouhé, Avy, Bougneau, Courcelles, Rochefort, Saint-Séverin-sur-Boutonne, Rioux, Saint-Simon-De-Pellouaille.

For the broader travel overview: Charente-Maritime.