With its green woodland of oaks, pines and tamarisks, inlets and beaches of fine sand on which sit Vauban’s fortifications, this little island (seemingly Mediterranean in character) in the mouth of the Charente is ideal for long walks bathed in ocean light. Vehicle access is strictly limited, but discovery on foot, by bike or carriage is a delight… Don’t miss the Napoleon Museum which commemorates his stay here in 1815.