Jules Verne himself described Charente-Maritime as one of the most beautiful départements in France... and we could not agree more! Bright, wild, authentic, sensual – the adjectives jostle with each other to describe this little corner of sweetness on the Atlantic Coast.
Charente-Maritime is synonymous with nature, first and foremost. Apart from its wild coastline where the dunes sit alongside green forests, the département also shares all the beauty of the Marais Poitevin with the Vendée. This vast network of canals, nicknamed Green Venice, will allow you to appreciate exceptional fauna and flora.
Further south, head towards the sea! Easy to spot thanks to its famous towers on the horizon, La Rochelle is a leading destination in the département. This beautiful town can be appreciated in any season thanks to a pleasant living environment and a rich heritage. Between its beaches and the aquarium the Francopholies music festival and its jazz festival, La Rochelle lives by the rhythm of the sea and culture. And before you leave, why not go and discover the offshore Fort Boyard by sail boat or even in a kayak!
Another charming place, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Ocean", the fashionable town of Royan shines in a magnificent natural setting in the midst of Belle Epoque villas and delicious seafood restaurants. If you are passing through with your family, the La Palmyre Zoo is an unmissable destination that will delight both young and old.
Off the Charente coast there are also charming islands with quite different atmospheres. Lovers of small picturesque villages and preserved nature will fall in love with the charm of the Ile de Ré – a little piece of upmarket land with crystal-clear beaches, while surfers and holidaymakers in search of a little more life will prefer Ile d’Oléron. Beaches, bike rides, relaxation – it's holiday time.
And to finish off your enchanting stay, don’t forget to stop off in the vineyards of Cognac situated in the neighbouring département of Charente, as well as in the charming town of Saintes, the region's window on Roman heritage where the iconic Eglise de Saint-Eutrope stands.
To get to Charente-Maritime by car, take the A10 motorway that links the département to Paris or get aboard a TGV that goes through Poitiers. If you prefer to fly, you will find flights from 15 different airports in the UK to Charente-Maritime.
Get ready to have an unforgettable stay in Charente-Maritime.