Born from the merger of two municipalities, Chenac-sur-Gironde and Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet, Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet is located 25 km south of Royan, on the right bank of the estuary of the Gironde. Two towns, two ports, two churches, the town is ultimately like no other.
A land of winegrowers and sailors
The landscapes of the municipality of Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet are rich and varied. On the one hand, the agricultural countryside, the hillsides and valleys, sometimes steep, sculpt the hinterland of the village. The vines also occupy an important part of the town. Thus, no less than three wine estates share the fertile land. The estuarine landscapes of the Gironde formed by dead cliffs, wet meadows and small fishing ports that have become marinas, finally make up the shoreline of the town.
Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet, capital of Caviar
Like other ports in the Gironde estuary, such as Meschers-sur-gironde but still Mortagne-sur-Gironde, the port of Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet was one of the most important sturgeon fishing ports and this, until very recently.
Indeed, for a long time fishermen captured sturgeon for its flesh and threw the eggs back into the sea. Legend has it that a Russian princess, Princess Roumanoff, passing through Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet, explained to the fishermen that these eggs are an exceptional delicacy in his country and are served on the most noble tables of Russia. She teaches them how to make the famous black gold.
Beyond the legend, it was at the beginning of the 20th century that caviar production began on the banks of the Gironde. The commune then became the French capital of caviarIn the 50s, the greatest personalities of the time (Jean Gabin, Daniele Darieux) stayed at RoyanThey flock to taste this internationally renowned local specialty.
In the early 80s, caviar production ceased with the scarcity of sturgeon in the estuary.
The Chauvignac river, a setting with turquoise reflections
Au Port des Monards, adjoining port with the town of barzan, the Chauvignac river is an exceptional natural site, classified as a Natura 2000 zone. 1.9 km long, the river finally flows into the Gironde estuary after passing through the Minoterie. Whether you're walking along the river or canoeing on the crystal-clear waters, you'll discover authentic nature. A fauna where storks, wild sheep, wild boar, roe deer, and woodcock live side by side.
Outdoor activities
Let's explore the Gironde landscapes on foot or by bike. From Les Monards, we take the trail of Walk and Hike PR 4It crosses the hilly landscapes of Chenac before descending to the port of Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet. From there, it is then possible to see the tower of the castle of Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet in the distance.
We travel through the Saintonge countryside along the Canal des 2 Mers by bike®. We take advantage of the alternation of vineyards and cereal fields. The village thus knows how to delight lovers of gentle roaming.
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The other municipalities of the Gironde estuary
