Saint-Georges-de-Didonne

A neighbour of Royan with its own identity

Looking to the south and over the estuary from Royan's sea front, you will see a big beach which stretches out and ends at the foot of a high limestone cliff. Without realising it, this is your first sight of Saint Georges.

Indeed, by following the beach from Royan, it is possible to miss the signpost marking the beginning of the municipality of Saint-Georges-de-Didonne, with its beach of Vallières which is an extension of the beach of Royan.

At this level, Saint-Georges-de-Didonne can appear to be a continuation of Royan but viewed from the cliff of Vallières, one realises that it is not only the southern neighbour of Royan but it has a distinctive personality of its own, giving a first impression of an unspoilt landscape with very few buildings.

An immense beach between two cliffs

It is easy to understand what characterises Saint Georges: two cliffs which protect a long beach of fine sand and an old, very lively, town centre which nevertheless, keeps the character of a village, with its business areas in streets around the church.

On the cliff of Vallières, the lighthouse, which creates the familiar silhouette of Saint Georges, is made of stone and was built in 1900 on a headland which protects the small port. It is closed down at present but will be re-opened to the public during the summer.

From the path around the lighthouse, there are beautiful views of the Pointe de Grave, the Pointe de Suzac and the lighthouse of Cordouan.

At the Pointe de Suzac, there is a path which goes along the cliff and this makes a very pleasant walk to Meschers.