The best walks and hikes around Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée
4.5
(405)
4,444
hikers
157
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée offers a diverse landscape characterized by its proximity to the Charente River estuary and the Atlantic coast. The region features a blend of aquatic environments, including extensive marshes like the Marais de Fouras, and wooded areas such as Le Bois Madame. Trails often follow riverbanks, reveal traditional fishing huts, and provide views of salt marshes and the Anse de Fouras.
Best hiking trails around Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée
- The most popular hiking route is Fort de Fouras – North beach…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.4
(5)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
21
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
hikers
4.70km
01:11
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
8.02km
02:01
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(7)
6
hikers
5.96km
01:31
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
don't leave too quickly
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Overlooking the Grande Plage of Fouras-les-Bains, you cannot miss this gigantic structure: Fort Vauban. From the 11th century, the castellany of Fouras owed its growth to the taxes that the lords of Rochefort levied on boats using the Charente. In the 15th century, in place of the castle, destroyed during the War of Religion, a 30 meter high keep was built to monitor the sea from the top of its terrace. It was during the construction of the Rochefort Arsenal that the keep became the fort we know today. It then becomes a centerpiece of the defense system of the approaches to the Charente in order to prevent entry towards Rochefort.
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Fort Fouras was actually built on the site of a Roman castle. Its purpose is to defend the mouth of the river against invasions. It was in service and actively occupied and used until 1927.
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Fort Lapointe was built in 1672 as one of many defensive structures protecting the military port and arsenal of Rochefort. It had several hundred men and about fifty guns stationed within it.
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Concerts are currently taking place there in the evenings. Otherwise private property, no admission
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From Boulevard de l'Océan, continue along the well-paved coastal path to explore the coastline without any car traffic.
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Beautiful view of the large lighthouse, relatively far from the sea, marking the entrance to the Charente. Which probably made the little lighthouse next door superfluous.
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Traditional fishing huts on stilts (carrelets) line both banks of the Charente.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée?
There are over 150 hiking trails around Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée, offering a wide range of options for different preferences and skill levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée?
Hikers in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée can experience a diverse blend of environments, including scenic riverbanks along the Charente estuary, extensive marshes like the Marais de Fouras, and peaceful wooded areas such as Le Bois Madame. Many routes also offer glimpses of the coastline and traditional fishing huts known as 'carrelets'.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée offers over 100 easy hiking trails. A good option for a relaxed walk is the Fort Lapointe – Grand Phare de Soumard loop from Soumard, which is 4.4 km long and takes about an hour to complete.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can discover on a hike?
Many trails incorporate historical and natural points of interest. You might encounter the ancient Dolmens des Pierres Closes, explore the locks along the Canal de Charras, or see coastal forts. For example, the Fort de Fouras – North beach of Fouras loop from Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée offers coastal views and passes by historical forts. You can also visit nearby attractions like the Rochefort Transporter Bridge or Châtelaillon Beach.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many of the trails in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Hiking loop from Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée, which is 8 km long and offers a moderate challenge.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée, especially in wooded and rural areas. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, particularly in nature reserves like the Marais de Fouras, to protect local wildlife. Please check specific trail regulations for any restrictions.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée?
The spring and autumn months are ideal for hiking in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summers can be warm, but coastal and riverside trails provide refreshing breezes. Winter hiking is also possible, with fewer crowds and a unique atmosphere, especially in the marshlands.
Are there any trails that offer views of the Charente River or the coast?
Absolutely. Many routes follow the banks of the Charente River, providing tranquil views and opportunities to see traditional 'carrelets'. The proximity to the ocean means some trails, like the Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée – Fort Lapointe loop from Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée, offer coastal scenery and views towards the Anse de Fouras.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 370 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil river paths and marshlands rich in birdlife to coastal views and historical forts, providing a varied and engaging outdoor experience.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular hiking trails in and around Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée. Specific parking information can often be found in the details for individual routes on komoot.
Are there any longer, more challenging routes for experienced hikers?
While the majority of trails are easy to moderate, there are a few more challenging options. For instance, the Fort de Fouras – North beach of Fouras loop from Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée is a moderate 17.9 km route that takes over 4 hours to complete, offering a longer and more extensive exploration of the coastal area.
Can I access hiking trails using public transport?
While some trails might be accessible via local bus services to Saint-Laurent-De-La-Prée or nearby towns, direct public transport links to specific trailheads can be limited. It's recommended to check local bus schedules and routes in advance if you plan to rely on public transport for access.
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