Just outside Brem/Mer, head towards the Olonne forest on the Route des Sables, and discover the little village of La Gachère on foot or by bike!
Until the 18th century, apart from a few agricultural and wine-growing activities confined exclusively to family production, the village of La Gachère was above all a village of salt-marsh farmers and coastal fishermen, with coastal fishing at the time mainly for sardines. Marsh fish such as mullet were also farmed and fished here.
Was whaling also practised?
The bones of this marine animal have been found here and there in the village - as have the vertebrae of a cetacean placed in some house walls - but this does not prove that this activity was indeed practised by the people of the Pays de Brem.
A small oyster-farming industry still exists today.
This natural treasure trove is ideal for walks and contemplation. Fall under the spell of this very typical little village with its narrow streets and low whitewashed houses, situated on the edge of the Olonne marshes.
Discover the Havre de la Gachère at the end of the channel with the Gachère lock, which regulates water levels in the neighbouring marshes. Two rivers flow into the sea at this lock: the Vertonne and the Auzance, offering a mix of fresh and salt water ideal for angling.
From the bridge, you can admire the superb view over the Auzance river, a real little paradise!
You can only go there on foot or by bike (car park nearby: rue des Gabelous).
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