The line was originally opened in 1876 to facilitate the transport of oysters and salt from the Seudre basin.
The locomotive fleet includes the 'Schneider' 030T, which has been granted status as a Monument Historique.
The railway operates on a standard gauge track, unlike many other preserved narrow-gauge tourist lines in France.
The journey crosses several historic iron bridges designed to withstand the saline environment of the marshes.
Volunteers contribute significantly to the mechanical maintenance and operation of the steam engines and vintage wood-paneled carriages.
The railway line avoids major urban road networks, preserving a view of the Charente-Maritime landscape as it appeared in the mid-1900s.
Le Train des Mouettes is a preserved heritage steam railway operating on the original Seudre Valley line in the Charente-Maritime department of France. The line stretches approximately 21 kilometers between the towns of Saujon and La Tremblade. It uses authentic steam locomotives and historic carriages dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The route traverses the marshes of the Seudre estuary, passing through salt pans and oyster-farming basins. It is managed by a non-profit association dedicated to the preservation of French railway heritage. Passengers can observe the steam engine's operations during the journey, including the coal-stoking process. The train line provides a connection between inland Saujon and the coastal resort area near the Atlantic coast. The service is classified as a 'Train Touristique', emphasizing historical reenactment and scenic regional transit.
From the open platform between carriages as the train crosses the bridge over the Seudre estuary.
Choose a seat in the open-air carriages to get the best views of the marshes and salt pans.
Arrive early to watch the steam engine being prepared and coupled to the carriages.
Bring a light jacket as the evening return trips can become breezy even in mid-summer.
Do not attempt to walk along the tracks outside of designated station platforms for safety reasons.
Operates primarily from spring through autumn; does not run daily outside of peak summer season.
Avoid wearing white clothing to prevent staining from steam engine soot.
