Discover the Charente Maritime region of France

Charente-Maritime, located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwest France, is a department that offers a fascinating mix of idyllic beaches, historic towns and picturesque countryside. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff or simply looking for a place to relax, Charente-Maritime has something to offer you.

An exceptional coastline

One of the main attractions of Charente-Maritime is its coastline, which stretches for more than 460 kilometers. The region is also home to several spectacular islands. The Ile de Ré, nicknamed the "Saint-Tropez of the Atlantic", is a popular place for its fine sandy beaches, its picturesque villages and its cycle paths. Don't miss the town of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, with its cobbled streets and historic fortifications.

The island of Oléron is the second largest island in France after Corsica. Known for its beaches and forests, it also attracts seafood lovers thanks to its famous oysters. If you're looking for family activities, La Palmyre Zoo, located on the mainland near Royan, is one of the most popular zoos in France. Historic cities and remarkable architecture

In addition to its magnificent coastline, Charente-Maritime has several historic towns rich in heritage. La Rochelle, the prefecture of the department, is famous for its picturesque old port, its medieval towers and its impressive aquarium. The town is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding islands.

Rochefort, another important town, is known for its historic maritime arsenal and its royal rope factory. It is here that the Hermione, the replica of La Fayette's famous ship, was rebuilt. Don't miss a visit to the maritime museum to learn about the region's naval history.

To discover in Charente-Maritime

Palmyra Zoo: A great activity for families with children, Nestled in the heart of an 18-hectare pine forest, La Palmyre Zoo is today one of the most popular tourist sites in Charente-Maritime.

Fortified Castle of Saint Jean d'Angle: This castle has a puzzle game for children and a quiz for adults, set out to attack our fortified castle, classified as a historic monument and its 15 hectare park.

Chassiron Lighthouse: The Chassiron lighthouse, perched on a rocky cliff, is located at the northern end of the island of Oléron, near the town of Saint-Denis-d'Oléron. The lighthouse allows sailors to enter the waters of the Antioch sluice, a place strewn with reefs and renowned for its numerous shipwrecks.

The Castle of Enigmas in Pons: Located in Pons in Charente-Maritime, Le Château des Énigmes is a leisure park which allows you to visit, while having fun, a magnificent Renaissance castle listed as a Historic Monument. For 3 hours, with family or friends, we invite you to discover the Château d'Usson through a treasure hunt that will immerse you in the world of pirates.

Countryside and nature: For those who prefer the tranquility of the countryside, Charente-Maritime also offers magnificent rural landscapes. The Poitevin Marshes, often called the "Green Venice", constitute a unique ecosystem with its canals and its diverse fauna. It is an ideal place for a boat or canoe trip.

Hiking enthusiasts will also find many trails to explore in the region, such as those in the Marais Poitevin regional natural park or the Landes de Gascogne regional natural park. These areas offer a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of tourist areas. Local gastronomy: Finally, no article on Charente-Maritime would be complete without mentioning its gastronomy. The region is famous for its seafood, particularly oysters and mussels. Local markets offer an abundance of fresh produce, and restaurants offer delicious dishes showcasing regional specialties.