For over 40 years, René Clouteau, the founder of Les Salines, has tirelessly worked to highlight and promote the local heritage. Les Salines has become a must-see destination, thereby enhancing the appeal of the salt marshes in Les Sables d’Olonne. Les Salines is also a place of ecological awareness where time and action bring humanity and nature into harmony. All those who contributed to this project can be proud of the result. Today, they pass on to all generations the passion and wisdom that guided them in their work.
Once upon a time in Les Salines …
René CLOUTEAU founded Les Salines with the aim of preserving and passing on the heritage of Les Sables d’Olonne. Armed with nothing but his courage and supported by a highly motivated team, he created a park that is known and recognized for having revived the craft of salt-making and the salt marshes of Les Sables d’Olonne.
A Brief History:
- 1985: Launch of “La Route des Salines” with boat tours departing from Port Olona.
- 1986: Work began on the restoration of the abandoned Aubraie marshes to reactivate the salt marshes and resume salt production in Les Sables d’Olonne.
- 1996: Opening of the “Salt Adventure Park,” offering visitors a chance to explore the salt marshes and learn about the salt-making trade.
- 2015: Launch of the children’s program “Harvest Your Salt.”
- 2021: Acquisition of Les Salines by the TESSON Group and appointment of Thomas LECLERCQ as the new CEO.
The Golden Age of the Salt Marshes in Les Sables-d’Olonne
Reconstruction of the collection basins
Construction of the Park
Learning the craft of salt-making all over again
Because the greatest treasure in Les Salines has always been its people…
