Located on the way to Santiago de Compostela, Surgères welcomes passing pilgrims. Coming from the north of France, it is often the first stop in Charente-Maritime. Bucolic break to discover the historic center of Surgères.
Surgères is located on the historical route of the "Western Way", this Way of Saint James starting from Mont Saint Michel, which then joins the "via Turonensis" or "Tours Way", at the level of Saint Jean d'Angély.
The Saint Gilles chaplaincy, still visible from the outside, was in its time a place of welcome for pilgrims.
Circuits of Surgères
The traditional circuit of Santiago de Compostela leaves Surgères to pass through Saint Jean d'Angely before reaching the town of Saintes.
A 2nd, shorter route was recently completed to cut through these stages: Surgères – Taillebourg – Saintes. This circuit makes it possible to reduce the route by 17km and multiply the possibilities of accommodation, while discovering the Charente Valley. A route suitable for all seasons, also accessible to pilgrim cyclists.
In Charente-Maritime, the Bourdon association works to promote the Way of St. James and its heritage. It facilitates exchanges with former pilgrims and connects them with host families.
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A Saint James stopover is now open to pilgrims in the town center of Surgères!
Pilgrim accommodation
Several accommodation options are available to pilgrims with their credential.
Pilgrim host families offer room and board on a pay-what-you-can basis. They do not commit to availability beyond four days. To stay with one of these families, you must contact the Comptoir Local® – Aunis Marais Poitevin Tourist Office at least two to three days before your arrival.
The Gères campsite in Surgères also offers preferential rates to pilgrims (rates in effect in 2025: €15 for a bare pitch in low season, €18 in high season or €25 with a tent provided, subject to availability).
Jacquaire stopover
A pilgrim 's hostel is now open in the center of Surgères. It can be booked online up to 72 hours before arrival . You will be asked to send a photo of your pilgrim's passport (credentiale) to confirm your reservation. To book your overnight stay, simply select your date below:
RESERVATION for 2 people and more: please make 1 reservation per person.
No online bookings will be possible less than 72 hours before arrival. Bookings can be made on-site at Comptoir Local in Surgères on the same day, according to opening hours.