Yves: Nature, Coast and Oyster Farming

Nature, oyster farming and history shape the themes to consider when planning a stay in Yves. The most tangible are the Bay and Marais d’Yves Nature Reserve, activities in the hamlet of Les Boucholeurs, and the town’s biographical connection to Sophie Blanchard.

Nature Reserve and Birdlife

Since November 14, 2024, the Bay and Marais d’Yves National Nature Reserve has covered an area of 1,206 hectares. It includes the Baie d’Yves, beaches, and marshland to the north and south of the Falaise d’Yves. Habitats include muddy tidal flats, dry dunes, ponds that vary in salinity, marshes and reed beds, as well as wet meadows, wooded areas and scrub. At least 574 flowering plant species are found in the reserve.

Birdlife also varies with the seasons: small and large wading birds are found along the shore, with ducks joining them in winter. Black-winged stilts and pied avocets breed in spring, while marsh harriers are present year-round. The nature reserve is not set up as an area freely accessible to visitors. The LPO offers guided tours year-round on scheduled dates. Check the dates before visiting. The guided outings are adapted for various disabilities. If you have specific requirements, check in advance whether a tour is suitable.

Trails, Coastal Landscapes and Discoveries

Near the Marais d’Yves Nature Reserve, there is a geolocated trail with five fun, interactive activities. They explore the evolution of the coast, as well as its flora and fauna. This activity focuses not only on habitats and wildlife but also on changes to the coastline.

The walking loop called “Châtelaillon-Plage – Boucle Boucholeurs” is listed as 3.04 km and 47 minutes, with the Belvédère des Bouchôleurs in 17340 Yves given as the starting point. Check trail conditions before setting out. La Rotonde des Boucholeurs is a panoramic viewpoint on the border between Châtelaillon-Plage and Yves, set on a 10 m-high raised promenade. The nature reserve is also mentioned in the regional cycling context: on the Vélodyssée® route in Charente-Maritime, the département recommends the Réserve Naturelle du Marais d’Yves as a stop to explore.

Oyster Farming and Visits

Les Boucholeurs is one of the five hamlets in the commune of Yves and is also located within the boundaries of Châtelaillon-Plage. Oyster and mussel farming are important activities there. The visits on offer vary in format and itinerary.

Saveurs Nacrées welcomes groups by reservation for an educational tasting. The explanations about oyster farming last from 30 minutes to one hour, followed by a tasting or meal on site. Check reservation requirements and seasonal availability in advance, as both may change.

Prévost-Chollet offers seasonal guided tours of its oyster hut, with commentary and by appointment. They cover shellfish-farming professions and the ecology and biodiversity of the coast and sea. The tour is followed by a tasting of their own oysters and/or mussels in season. L’Ambiance Cabane welcomes guests on the sea-facing terrace of its oyster hut to showcase its products; from there, visitors can enjoy views of the Baie d’Yves, Fouras and Île d’Aix.

History of Yves

The Priory of Saint-Etienne d’Yves was already in existence in the 12th century and was demolished and rebuilt in the 19th century. Sophie Blanchard was born on March 24, 1778, in Trois-Canons in the commune of Yves. She was the first woman to pursue a career as an aeronaut.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Maurice-De-Tavernole, Saujon, Bagnizeau, Louzignac, Saint-Césaire, Saint-André-De-Lidon, Cressé, Saint-Christophe.

For the wider travel overview: Charente-Maritime.