Camping near Fort Boyard

The famous Fort Boyard, just a stone’s throw from our campsite in Oléron

Who hasn’t heard of Fort Boyard? Thanks to the famous TV show, this impressive stronghold is one of the proudest sights in the Charente Maritime department.

Make the most of your stay at Le Montet d’Oléron, our campsite on the Ile d’Oléron, to discover this fortress, which has been enjoying renewed fame since 1990.

control access to the French coast

Built under Napoleon

It was built between 1803 and 1857 under Napoleon to control access to the French coast, mainly against English armies. This project did not originate under Bonaparte, but had existed since the reign of Louis XIV. Vauban had studied the possibility of building a fort on this sandbar, but without success.

The project was to see the light of day 250 years later, but its construction was fraught with technical problems, with the sea often getting the better of the progress, reducing the project to a standstill. That’s why it took so long to see the light of day. After many attempts, the fort was finally built.

Fort Boyard, from defensive structure to entertainment venue

Meanwhile, new warfare techniques have evolved, particularly in the field of artillery… Nevertheless, the Fort was useful: it became a prison! Enemies of the Republic were locked up in its many dungeons: Prussians, then political prisoners linked to the commune.

In 1919 it was abandoned to the ocean.

In 1988, the fort was bought by a production company which turned it into a media mecca. The success brought in millions, much needed to maintain the site.

The impressive building can be seen from the beach on the Ile d’Oléron (Boyardville), just a few minutes from Le Montet d’Oléron campsite. It’s possible to get close to it thanks to maritime tours organized by companies such as Inter îles.

Departure from Oléron: Boyardville (Ile d’Oléron) – Saint-Denis-d’Oléron (Ile d’Oléron)

It’s a great outing for young and old alike. The fortification belongs to the municipality of Fouras (which, incidentally, gave its name to the famous old sage on the TV show).

Book your camping pitch in Dolus – Book your camping accommodation on the Ile d’Oleron

Information: www.inter-iles.com.