La Palmyre Zoo

La Palmyre Zoo in Les Mathes is one of the largest zoological parks in France, set among the pine woodlands of the Charente-Maritime coast just a short drive from Royan. It has grown over the decades into a full-day destination for families exploring the Atlantic coastline near La Rochelle and the Gironde estuary.

Where exactly is the zoo located?

The park sits inside the La Coubre forest in Les Mathes, close to the sandy beaches of the Côte de Beauté. Its position makes it an easy stop for visitors based in Royan or touring the coastal towns further north and south. Because the zoo is built directly into a pine forest, much of the walk between enclosures happens under natural shade, which is a welcome relief during the warmer months.

When was the zoo founded and by whom?

The zoo was created in 1966 by Claude Caillé, who chose this stretch of coastal forest as the site for the project. Since then it has expanded steadily while keeping the wooded terrain as a defining feature of the visit, rather than clearing it in favor of a conventional flat layout.

How big is the park and how many animals live there?

La Palmyre Zoo covers 18 hectares, 14 of which are landscaped gardens threaded with paths, ponds, and planted enclosures. The visitor route runs for more than 4 kilometres, so a full circuit takes real time to complete. Within that space live over 1,600 animals across roughly 145 species, making it one of the most species-diverse zoos in the country.

What kind of animals can visitors expect to see?

The sheer number of species — around 145 — means the collection spans a wide range of habitats, from savannah and forest animals to birds and reptiles from very different corners of the world. The generous acreage allows enclosures to be spaced out and designed to echo natural environments rather than cramming exhibits close together, and the long forested route takes visitors through a sequence of distinct zones without doubling back.

Is the zoo suitable for families with young children?

Yes. The park provides baby-changing facilities in spacious, dedicated areas, making it manageable to spend a full day on site with infants. A free-to-use microwave is also available, which is useful for warming bottles or baby food during the visit. These practical touches mean families don't need to leave the grounds to handle basic childcare needs.

How much time should a visit take?

Given the 18-hectare site and a walking route of over 4 kilometres, plan on spending between 4 and 6 hours to see most of the enclosures without rushing. The forest setting also offers natural spots to pause and rest, which is worth factoring in for visits with young children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is La Palmyre Zoo located? It is in Les Mathes, in the Charente-Maritime department, within the La Coubre forest near Royan on France's Atlantic coast.

When was it founded? The zoo was established in 1966 by Claude Caillé.

How many animals and species does it house? The collection includes more than 1,600 animals across about 145 species, spread along a route of over 4 kilometres.

Are there facilities for families with babies? Yes, the zoo offers spacious baby-changing areas and a free-to-use microwave on site.