# Oléron Island > island in Charente-Maritime, New Aquitaine, France **Wikidata**: [Q292568](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q292568) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oléron) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ol-ron-island ## Summary Oléron Island is the largest island on the French Atlantic coast, located in the department of Charente-Maritime within the region of New Aquitaine. It is a sub-continental landmass surrounded by water, known for its rich biodiversity, historical heritage, and tourism appeal. The island spans approximately 42 kilometers in length and houses several communes including Saint-Georges-d'Oléron, Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, and Dolus-d'Oléron. ## Key Facts - **Location**: Charente-Maritime, New Aquitaine, France. - **Classification**: Island — a piece of sub-continental land completely surrounded by water. - **Coordinates**: Latitude 45.925, Longitude -1.2825. - **Population**: 21,790 (as of latest data). - **Area**: Approximately 42 kilometers long. - **Part of**: Canton of l'Île d'Oléron (established March 22, 2015). - **Notable Communes**: Saint-Georges-d'Oléron, Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, Dolus-d'Oléron, Le Château-d'Oléron, Saint-Denis-d'Oléron, Le Grand-Village-Plage, La Brée-les-Bains, Saint-Trojan-les-Bains. - **Aliases**: Île d'Oléron, Island of Oléron, Oleron Island, Île-de-la-Liberté, Ilâte d'Olerun, Olerun. - **Wikipedia Title**: Oléron. - **Sitelink Count**: 42. ## FAQs **What is Oléron Island known for?** Oléron Island is known as the largest island on the French Atlantic coast. It is celebrated for its natural beauty, oyster farming, and historical sites like the Fortified City of Saint-Martin. **Where is Oléron Island located?** Oléron Island is located in the department of Charente-Maritime, in the region of New Aquitaine, France. It is part of the canton of l'Île d'Oléron. **What are the main towns on Oléron Island?** Key communes include Saint-Georges-d'Oléron, Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, Dolus-d'Oléron, Le Château-d'Oléron, and Saint-Trojan-les-Bains. **What is the population of Oléron Island?** The island has a population of approximately 21,790. **What is the geography of Oléron Island like?** The island is about 42 kilometers long and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. It features a diverse ecosystem and is part of the canton of l'Île d'Oléron. **What administrative region does Oléron Island belong to?** It belongs to the canton of l'Île d'Oléron, which was established on March 22, 2015, and is located in Charente-Maritime, New Aquitaine. ## Why It Matters Oléron Island holds ecological, cultural, and economic significance. It is a vital part of France's coastal biodiversity and a hub for sustainable tourism. The island's oyster farms are renowned nationally, contributing to France's gastronomic reputation. Its historical sites, such as the Fortified City of Saint-Martin, offer insights into regional heritage. As part of the canton of l'Île d'Oléron, it plays a role in local governance and community identity. The island also serves as a model for balancing tourism with environmental conservation. ## Notable For - Being the largest island on the French Atlantic coast. - Hosting the Fortified City of Saint-Martin, a historical monument. - Producing high-quality oysters, a significant part of France's culinary exports. - Its inclusion in the canton of l'Île d'Oléron, established in 2015. - A diverse ecosystem that supports both tourism and conservation. - Serving as a cultural and historical landmark in the Charente-Maritime region. ## Body ### Geography and Location Oléron Island is located in the department of Charente-Maritime, within the region of New Aquitaine, France. It is the largest island on the French Atlantic coast, stretching approximately 42 kilometers in length. The island is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and is characterized by its diverse ecosystem, which includes salt marshes, beaches, and oyster farms. Its geographic coordinates are latitude 45.925 and longitude -1.2825. ### Administrative Structure The island is part of the canton of l'Île d'Oléron, which was established on March 22, 2015. This canton includes several communes such as Saint-Georges-d'Oléron, Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, Dolus-d'Oléron, Le Château-d'Oléron, and Saint-Trojan-les-Bains. These communes are integral to the island's administrative and cultural identity. ### Population and Demographics Oléron Island has a population of approximately 21,790. The island's residents are spread across its various communes, each contributing to the island's cultural and economic landscape. The population is supported by a mix of agriculture, tourism, and fisheries, particularly oyster farming. ### Notable Communes Several communes are located on Oléron Island, each with its own unique characteristics: - **Saint-Georges-d'Oléron**: Known for its historical significance and role in the canton of l'Île d'Oléron. - **Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron**: A key commune with historical and cultural landmarks. - **Dolus-d'Oléron**: Renowned for its beaches and tourism appeal. - **Le Château-d'Oléron**: Features historical monuments and natural beauty. - **Saint-Denis-d'Oléron**: Known for its local traditions and community events. - **Le Grand-Village-Plage**: A popular tourist destination. - **La Brée-les-Bains**: Known for its natural landscapes and biodiversity. - **Saint-Trojan-les-Bains**: Features therapeutic spas and historical sites. ### Cultural and Historical Significance Oléron Island is home to several historical landmarks, including the Fortified City of Saint-Martin. These sites offer insights into the island's past and its role in regional history. The island's cultural heritage is celebrated through local festivals, traditions, and community events. ### Ecosystem and Environment The island's ecosystem is diverse, featuring salt marshes, beaches, and oyster farms. These natural resources support both tourism and local agriculture. The island is also a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with several protected areas and conservation programs. ### Tourism and Economy Tourism is a significant part of Oléron Island's economy, with visitors drawn to its natural beauty, historical sites, and oyster farms. The island's economy also benefits from agriculture, particularly oyster farming, which is a significant part of France's culinary exports. ### Governance and Administration As part of the canton of l'Île d'Oléron, the island plays a role in local governance and community identity. The canton was established on March 22, 2015, and includes several communes that contribute to the island's administrative structure. ### Related Entities and Connections Oléron Island is connected to several entities, including: - **Canton of l'Île d'Oléron**: The administrative division to which the island belongs. - **Communes**: Including Saint-Georges-d'Oléron, Saint-Pierre-d'Oléron, Dolus-d'Oléron, and others. - **Fortified City of Saint-Martin**: A historical monument located on the island. - **Oyster Farms**: A significant part of the island's economy and cultural identity. ### Aliases and References Oléron Island is known by several names, including Île d'Oléron, Island of Oléron, Oleron Island, Île-de-la-Liberté, Ilâte d'Olerun, and Olerun. It is referenced in various sources, including Wikipedia, under the title "Oléron." The island has a sitelink count of 42, indicating its presence in multiple databases and references. ## References 1. archINFORM 2. Virtual International Authority File 3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 4. GeoNames 5. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)