Goisil Channel

A small, bucolic port, the Goisil channel is an ideal place for contemplation and inspiration. Located to the north of La Couarde, its canal probably dates back to the Middle Ages, and was used to evacuate freshwater from the former Marattes estate, located behind the village. Later, in the 17th century, a tide (or water) mill was installed here, which remained in use until 1839. After this date, it is known that the mill was used as a refinery to reduce the island's coarse, gray salt until 1882. It was in this year that the Goisil channel suffered unusually severe damage from what is known as a vimer/raz-de-marée, destroying any structures reminiscent of the refinery.

However, despite vimers, storms and other ravages of time, the last channel is still maintained, particularly in terms of its devastation, to the amazement of passers-by and sailors using it.

It has also served as a model for many artists and photographers, whose work can easily be found online.