Le Train Des Mouettes
About
The Train des Mouettes is a unique steam‑powered heritage railway that chugs along a 21‑kilometre stretch between Saujon and La Tremblade in France’s Charente‑Maritime department. First revived in 1984 by the ‘Association du Chemin de Fer Touristique de la Seudre’, the line has become a celebrated attraction, offering visitors a nostalgic journey through picturesque coastal landscapes on historic locomotives and rolling stock that date back to the early 1900s. Each summer the train, often accompanied by a restaurant car, traverses the route in roughly three hours, giving passengers time to enjoy the scenic views of the Seudre estuary and the charming seaside villages of Mornac‑sur‑Seudre and Étaules. The service operates daily from early May to late September, with peak traffic in July and August. In addition to the steam‑powered journey, the railway hosts special seasonal trains such as the “Train des Loupiotes” and the “Train Éclade de moules”, adding variety for repeat visitors. The station at Saujon and the central depot in Chaillevette house a collection of historic steam, diesel and battery locomotives, as well as a fleet of vintage passenger cars and wagons that have been preserved as part of France’s railway heritage. With its blend of engineering history, natural scenery and local culinary offerings on board the restaurant car, the Train des Mouettes offers a charming, low‑speed escape that appeals to train enthusiasts, families and anyone looking to experience a slice of French rail culture in a relaxed setting.
Highlights
- Historic Steam Train Experience
- Scenic Coastal Route
- Seasonal Themed Trains
Good to Know
Best time to visit
Late spring to early fall (May–September) for the most scenic coastal views and higher frequency of specials.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 3 hours