Excursion Walking tour of le palais tour at Belle Île

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Le Palais, Belle-Île's main city, is dominated by a star shaped citadelle built in the 16th century by Gondi's family, bought by Fouquet and enlarged by Vauban. Take a stroll through history as you walk to the Citadelle and learn of its rich history.


Walking Tour

Walk through the charming port of Le Palais to the entrance of the Citadelle Vauban passing the gate (Porte du Bourg) and following the great Moat (Grand Fossé) carved in rocks to the Keep gate.

Visit the citadelle and "meet" Fouquet or the Cardinal of Retz, Louis XIV and the "poison affair", the Chouans and Cadoudal and many more characters that made the story of this sentinel of the sea, today museum and hotel, overlooking the harbour.

Often referred to as the "Battleship of the Atlantic", discover soldiers' quarters, prison cells, gunpowder storage and kitchens. From the Governor Bastion and its gardens, take a view over Le Palais port and the town, the coastline and far away islands of Houat and Hoedic.


After the visit of the Citadelle, return to the pier area via Le Palais, the main street.



Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of activity including walking through narrow passages and involves some stairs for approximately 1.3km (.81 miles). This tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair or those with limited mobility. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Belle-Île, Citadelle Vauban, Le Palais

Note

This tour involves a moderate amount of activity including walking through narrow passages and involves some stairs for approximately 1.3km (.81 miles). This tour is not suitable for guests who utilise a wheelchair or those with limited mobility. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection.