le d'Oléron is an island off the west coast of France. It's joined to the mainland by a bridge and is crisscrossed by cycle paths. It features pine forests, dunes and sandy beaches. Fishing ports fringe the island, such as the busy La Cotinière in the major town of Saint-Pierre d'Oléron. Le Château d'Oléron, a town known for its oysters, is home to La Citadelle, a huge waterfront fortress. The celebrated French century writer Pierre Loti dubbed the island of Oléron ‘La Lumineuse’ for its light.

The Old Ghost Road is an 85km trail that winds its way through remote valleys, across mountain tops and down river gorges. It is suitable for trampers with a reasonable level of backcountry skills and experience.

www.oldghostroad.org.nz