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 XNUMXth century that the production of caviar was born on the banks of the Gironde. Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet then becomes the French capital of caviar. In the 50s, the greatest personalities of the time such as Jean Gabin, Daniele Darieux... who stayed at Royan, flock to the town to taste this internationally renowned local specialty.
It was at the beginning of the 80s and with the scarcity of wild sturgeon in the Gironde estuary that caviar production ceased in the region. Today, the former trade inn has become the Caviar and sturgeon museum.
The Chauvignac river, a setting with turquoise reflections
Au Port des Monards, adjoining port with the town of barzan, Chauvignac river is an exceptional natural site, classified as a Natura 2000 area. 1.9 km long, the river flows into the Gironde estuary after crossing the Minoterie. Whether for a walk along the river or canoeing on the crystal clear waters, discover an authentic nature. A fauna where storks, wild sheep, wild boar, deer and woodcock meet.
Outdoor activities
Explore the landscapes of the Gironde on foot or by bike. From Les Monards, take the trail of Walk and Hike PR 4. It crosses the hilly landscapes of Chenac before descending to the port of Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet. From there, it is 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®, enough to take advantage of the alternation of vines and cereal fields. Undoubtedly, Chenac-Saint-Seurin-d'Uzet will delight lovers of gentle itineraries.
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The other municipalities of the Gironde estuary
