Les Salines Oléron

This waterside bistro showcases seafood flavours and super-fresh produce. The menu sails between timeless classics (oysters, confit of octopus, lentils, mustard-flavoured sabayon and the chef’s lemon pie) and more spur-of-the-moment recipes. Inside, this former oyster shed upholds its heritage, while the terrace overlooking the marshes is blissful.

Run by a bubbly, youthful team, this friendly dinky bistro at the tip of the island is invariably packed to the seams. The menu, as concise as it is tempting, never fails to deliver the goods: most of the fruit and veg is grown on the island, the fish is from local fish auctions, (crafted in many guises), local producers and natural wines frequently take the limelight and the bread is made in-house with flour produced on Oléron. The signature dish varies with the season from agnolotti of langoustines to royal shrimp, from Oléron, of course! Bookings are essential given the establishment’s popu

A short distance from Rémigeasse beach, Le Grand Large hotel is surrounded by dunes and unspoilt nature and overlooks the ocean below. Its restaurant looks out onto the indoor swimming pool on one side and the sea on the other – complete with sunset views. The menu showcases first-rate produce from the region, eg line-caught meagre tartare with green apple and green asparagus panna cotta with watercress; line-caught pollock with tarragon oil and a fish roe beurre blanc.

After Baston in Bordeaux, chef Julien Borie and baker Pauline Celle have taken the same enticing concept of a restaurant-bakery, and rooted it even more in the terroir. The chef, who is from these parts, thus has an opportunity to work with local artisans and seafood. The result is confident and masterfully executed bistronomy cuisine, incorporating precisely prepared local produce – particularly the matured fish that can be seen in a display case in the dining area. The bakery turns out natural sourdough breads using organic flour and drawing on genuine artisanal expertise. The decor features

This modern spacious seafront restaurant boasts a panoramic terrace, ideal for sunset snapshots, and indoors, a suspended fireplace for warmth during colder months. The cheerful, spot-on service team celebrates a seafood-centric menu sourced from local fish auctions and the emblematic oysters of the Gillardeau family, who owns the establishment, as well as a fine lineup of meat dishes. The chef adds an exotic touch courtesy of spicy seasonings and influences from further afield. Stay for longer in one of four suites which have a balcony or a terrace with a sea view.

Taste Pierre Gagnaire’s free-spirited culinary vision at Gaya, part of La Grande Terrasse Hotel, not far from Les Boucholeurs. The local score seamlessly mixes surf and turf ingredients in elegant dishes flanked by high-flying jus, sauces and crèmes. An example: small oysters and razor clams steamed in white wine and paired with wild seaweed and finely chopped cauliflower. Swish service and a stylish interior, all of which with a breathtaking view of the ocean. Splendid wine list and wines by the glass from magnum bottles.

This picturesque 19C blue and white house stands on the boulevard that skirts the immense beach. Take a seat in a contemporary dining room overlooking the sea and dig into beautifully presented super-fresh fish and shellfish platters, the establishment’s pride and joy. Guaranteed to find favour with seafood lovers!