Although, the salt of Guérande to the north is more renowned in culinary circles, there was still a large salt industry in this area thanks to the need for salt to preserve foodstuffs. Today you can visit the salt marshes. There are two complementary ways to see the marshes:
On foot
Walk the trail through the Jardins des Salines, through what was once an area where salt was gathered. Information along the way tells of the history of salt from Roman times to its heyday. You can also watch a modern salt-maker at work – using a rake to skim the surface of the saltpans to collect the salt, and learn how salt is produced and collected. There are taped guides in French at various points, but also an English-language leaflet that gives you some information. Plan two hours.
By boat
Take a two hour-long boat trip – it’s an open-topped boat with no shade so wear a hat and sunscreen and take water – with a guide who will fill you in on the history of the town and the area. As late as the middle of the 20th century, salt was a major industry and the Olonne marshes were full of saltpans. Today, most have been given over to farming. Both are in operation from April – September. Reservations are necessary for the boat trip. Both can be found at 120 Route de l’Aubraie (D87A), which is just north of La Chaume. For more information and reservations see the website.