Charente-Maritime
Stretching north of Bordeaux all the way to the port city of La Rochelle along France’s west coast, the Charente-Maritime region is blessed with sandy shores, salt marshes, and a balmy microclimate. Holidaymakers flock to the coast, where the 288 miles (463km) of Atlantic coastline is dotted with maritime towns, idyllic islands, and lush marshlands, while inland, patchwork farmlands and sunflower fields lead the way to historic market towns, where you can sip local aperitifs Cognac and Pineau des Charentes.
TROPHY SITES
- Atlantic beaches
- La Rochelle
- Ile-de-Ré island
HOW TO GET THERE
The French département of Charente-Maritime is within the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in southwest France. La Rochelle, Saintes, and Rochefort are the main cities and have direct links to Paris, Bordeaux, and Nantes by train, while several low-cost airlines fly from La Rochelle to the UK and other European destinations. You’ll need a car to get around the beaches and rural towns, and the main roads include the A10 autoroute (motorway), and the N11, N150, and N141 route nationale.
EXPERIENCE CHARENTE-MARITIME
Swap the urban bustle of Bordeaux for a boat cruise or bike ride around the wildlife-filled marshes and rocky coves of the Gironde estuary, then continue north along the Atlantic coast to relax on golden beaches, explore the salt farms, or taste fresh-from-the-ocean oysters along the coast.
The off-shore islands of Ile d’Oléron and Ile d’Ré are reachable by bridge from the mainland, and tempt sunseekers with their sandy beaches and coastal resorts, while a short boat cruise will take you to the Ile d’Aix, where you can admire the old sea forts, cycle between beaches, or take a horse carriage ride around the tiny island.
Stop by Rochefort to explore the naval dockyards and lively food market on the way to La Rochelle, the region’s largest city and maritime hub, with its picturesque Old Port, medieval watchtowers, and famous aquarium. Or, head east to riverside Saintes to see the ancient Roman amphitheatre.
In the neighbouring Charentes region, Cognac is just a short drive away, and highlights include a Cognac-tasting tour and a visit to the royal château.
STAY IN CHARENTE-MARITIME
Renting a gîte—a rural holiday home—or a chambre d’hôte—a bed & breakfast, often hosted in someone’s home— is not only one of the most affordable options for group or family accommodation in France, but it also provides the opportunity to escape the crowds, meet the locals, and experience rural France. Gîtes de France is the national federation that lists and rates the country’s gites and chambres d’hôtes.
