Fort Enet, constructed in 1812, is situated between Fouras-les-Bains and Île d'Aix. Its purpose is to safeguard communication with Île d'Aix.
The history of Fort Enet
The history of Fort Enet can be traced back to an event called "The Fire Ship Incident." In April 1809, ships set on fire from the English Navy were deliberately sent towards the French fleet anchored in the harbor of Île d'Aix.
Imagine this: 34 English ships facing off against 15 French ships. Their mission was to defend the entrance to the Charente River at all costs. This meant protecting the important Arsenal of Rochefort. In a letter to Napoleon, Admiral Zacharie Allemand vividly described the naval battle: "There was no stopping those massive ships driven by a strong wind. We weren't fighting enemies, but rather trying to prevent widespread and fiery destruction (...). The sea was engulfed in flames."
The English looted the island of Aix, but the French Navy barely stopped them from entering the Charente River. This made it clear that a new fort needed to be built. The aim was to block the Pertuis d'Antioche and protect the harbor of the island of Aix.
Napoleon I insisted on building a fort between Fouras-les-Bains and Île d'Aix. Finally, in 1810, they started constructing Fort Enet to prevent another attack on Île d'Aix. Two years later, the French army took over the fort. From then on, it safeguarded the harbor and doubled as a prison for convicts.
Fort Enet at low tide
To visit this unique fort, you'll need to wait for low tide when the ocean unveils a 1.6 km long passage from Pointe de la Fumée. It's about a 30-minute walk through oyster parks, surrounded by a surprising landscape. Once you reach the fort, you can explore its history by visiting the cells where communards and convicts were held, the officers' quarters, the ammunition storage, and more. This historic monument, designated as such since 1994, not only has architectural significance but also offers a stunning panoramic view of the Charente estuary, with Fort Boyard visible in the distance. Make sure to bring your binoculars for an incredible sightseeing experience!
