Train des Mouettes
Looking for a unique experience in Charente-Maritime? Board the Train des Mouettes, the region's only steam train, for an unforgettable journey through time. and the enchanting landscapes of the Seudre estuary, linking Saujon à La Tremblade.
This 21 km route takes you through charming villages, with stops where you can explore the local heritage and savour regional specialities.
In this article, we invite you to discover all the facets of the Train des Mouettes: its history, its vintage locomotives, the entertainment on board and the services available. You'll also find all the information you need to plan your adventure on the Seagull Train, whether you're traveling with family, friends or a group. Are you ready to blow the starting whistle?
Discover the Train des Mouettes
Discover the Train des Mouettes, much more than just a train. It represents a journey through time, exploring the railway and oyster farming history of Charente-Maritime. Join us for a unique escapade along the Seudre, and immerse yourself in the world of the Train des Mouettes.
Time travel on rails
Since it was inaugurated in 1876 by the Compagnie de la Seudre, the Train des Mouettes has run along a historic line that connected Saujon to La Grève via La Tremblade, essential for transporting oysters and passengers at the time.
Today, this line remains the only one in Charente-Maritime to be operated by steam locomotive. The Train des Mouettes invites you to travel the 21 km route between Saujon and La Tremblade, offering breathtaking views of the Seudre estuary, its salt marshes, oyster ports, charming villages and pine forests. Keep your eyes peeled for local flora and fauna, and the seagulls that inspired the train's name.
France's oldest steam locomotive
Train des Mouettes is proud of its two steam locomotives, dating from 1912 and 1891, both of which are listed as historic monuments. Locomotive 030T Corpet-Louvet, the older of the two, stands out as the oldest standard-gauge steam locomotive still in operation in France.
Built at La Courneuve, this locomotive served the Touraine and Vendée networks before being rescued from the scrap heap in 1971 by the Association des Trains à Vapeur de Touraine (ATVT), then restored and integrated into the Train des Mouettes in 1985. As a tender locomotive, it can load up to 3 tons of coal and 6 m3 of water, and reach a speed of 60 km/h, although it runs at 30 km/h on the line for a better appreciation of the landscape.
Mornac-sur-Seudre: a must-see stop
Village stops are one of the pleasures of the Train des Mouettes, with Mornac-sur-Seudre as its flagship stopover.
This charming village, recognized as one of France's 100 most beautiful villages, retains its historic cachet with traditional houses, blue shutters, flower-decked alleyways, Romanesque church, oyster port and craft market. It's an ideal place to stop and explore, sample local specialties or sail on the Seudre. Mornac-sur-Seudre is the starting point for a number of hikes, and an ideal place to discover the surrounding countryside.
The Train des Mouettes experience
Taking the Train des Mouettes is far from a simple train ride. It's entering the unique setting of the XIXᵉ century, exploring the wild beauty of the Seudre, and indulging in a range of diverse and captivating activities.
Discover what makes the Seagull Train so special.
Travel as in the XIXᵉ century
With Train des Mouettes, you have the extraordinary opportunity to travel in carefully renovated historic carriages dating from 1890 to 1930. Depending on your preferences and budget, choose between first- or second-class carriages. Take advantage of the bar car for refreshments, snacks and souvenirs.
Embark on a journey back in time, with wooden seats, sash windows, kerosene lamps and staff dressed in period costume. The conductor enriches your journey with commentaries on the history of the line, the villages crossed and the sites to discover along the way.
Immerse yourself in the Seudre wilderness
The Train des Mouettes crosses the Seudre estuary, a Natura 2000 listed jewel, offering views over a variety of landscapes - from salt marshes and sandy beaches to pine forests and wet meadows. Observe a rich diversity of flora and fauna: wading birds, ducks, herons, egrets, storks, not forgetting orchids, irises, saltwort and the famous oysters.
Admire the local architectural heritage with its oyster huts, carrelets, locks, bridges and churches. The ever-changing landscapes, depending on the seasons, tides and weather, make every trip a unique experience.
Activities not to be missed on the banks of the Seudre
The Train des Mouettes offers stopovers in the villages it serves, allowing you to take full advantage of local activities. Explore the Musée de l'Huître in La Tremblade for an insight into the world of oyster farming, its traditions, techniques and challenges. Taste oysters and local produce directly from local producers.
Take a boat trip on the Seudre to discover this unique estuary, its marshes, ports and islands. Take part in special Train des Mouettes events: themed trains (Halloween, Christmas, Easter...), musical and gourmet trains, or the Seudre Océan Express experience, with its gourmet menu on board.
Practical information for your Seagull Train ride
You've been seduced by the Seagull Train and want to live this unique experience on rails? Here's some useful information to help you plan your getaway and maximize your enjoyment of the day.
Book your place on board
Le Train des Mouettes operates from mid-April to the end of September, as well as during the All Saints' vacation period. It offers several daily departures from Saujon or La Tremblade, according to the detailed schedule on their website.
All-day tickets give you the freedom to hop on and off at various stops. Book online, by phone, or on site at the Train des Mouettes station in Saujon. Fares range from €18 for adults and €12 for children aged 4 to 12, while children under 4 are free.
Special rates are available for groups, large families, students and people with reduced mobility. Various means of payment are accepted: credit card, cheque, cash or vacation vouchers.
Preparing your day: tips and recommendations
For the best possible experience, here are a few tips: dress for the weather, and bring sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. As the Train des Mouettes is open-air, it can be cool, especially in the morning and evening, or in shady areas.
Take along plenty of water and snacks, especially if you don't want to use the bar car or stop off in the villages. Picnicking is also an excellent option, with designated areas along the route.
Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture memories and share your favorite moments on social networks with the hashtag #traindesmouettes.
Special events not to be missed
Le Train des Mouettes offers unique events: the Seudre Océan Express offers a memorable gastronomic experience on board. Themed trains immerse you in different atmospheres depending on the season or festival, with opportunities for fun during Halloween, Christmas, Easter, Fête de la Musique, and many others.
Musical trains let you travel to the rhythm of performances by local groups or guest artists. Gourmet trains, meanwhile, showcase regional products such as oysters, pineau and cognac.
For more details on these events and their prices, visit the official Train des Mouettes website or contact them by phone or email.
Conclusion
The Train des Mouettes offers a unique adventure, taking you on a journey through time and the wonderful Charente-Maritime countryside. This extraordinary ride gives you the opportunity to explore the region's rich railway and oyster heritage, immerse yourself in the unspoilt nature of the Seudre, and enjoy a wide range of entertaining activities.
Ideal for an outing with family, friends or groups, the Train des Mouettes promises a memorable day aboard an authentic steam train full of charm. Don't miss out on this exceptional experience, book your ticket now and let yourself be transported on an adventure like no other!
FAQ
What is the Train des Mouettes and why is it an unusual ride?
Since 1984, the Train des Mouettes has been offering a unique tourist experience on a railroad line inaugurated in 1876 linking Saujon, France, to the French Riviera. in La Trembladealong the Seudre estuary. This trip is made all the more special by the opportunity to travel aboard an 1891 steam locomotive, the oldest still in operation on standard gauge in France. Recognized as a historic monument, it invites you to discover the beauty of the Charente-Maritime countryside and its charming villages.
How do I book a ticket for the Train des Mouettes and what are the fares?
Tickets for the Train des Mouettes can be booked by selecting the desired date on the calendar and consulting the timetables. Tickets will be available for purchase online from spring 2024, or directly at the departure station. Prices are affordable: €16 for adults, €8 for children aged 4 to 16, with a family offer at €44 (2 adults + 2/3 children), and free for children under 4.
What villages and landscapes can you discover along the Seudre estuary?
The route follows the Seudre estuary, revealing picturesque villages and diverse landscapes. Mornac-sur-Seudre, recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages, is a must-see, with its port, colorful houses and salt marshes. The estuary also reveals oyster beds, wetlands and meadows, home to numerous species of flora and fauna.
What activities and events does Train des Mouettes offer?
Le Train des Mouettes enriches the experience with a variety of activities and events, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the Charente countryside through a historical perspective. The program includes treasure hunts in Mornac-sur-Seudre, picnics in Chaillevette, history sessions on the railroad line and special trains such as Santa Claus and the Witches' Train.
