Welcome to Charentes-Maritimes, a French department brimming with hidden treasures and must-see sites! Situated on the Atlantic coast, this territory offers a wide variety of landscapes, from fine sandy beaches to verdant forests, salt marshes and towns steeped in history. In this article, we have selected for you the 17 most beautiful places to visit in Charentes-Maritimes. Whether you're a lover of nature, culture or gastronomy, you're sure to find what you're looking for in this list. So, are you ready to discover the wonders of this region? Just follow the guide!
1. What to do in Charente-Maritimes Visit La Rochelle
La Rochelle is a must-see when visiting Charente-Maritimes. Located on the Atlantic coast, this thousand-year-old city is brimming with architectural and cultural treasures. Among the must-sees is the Vieux Port, surrounded by the town's two emblematic medieval towers: Tour Saint-Nicolas and Tour de la Chaîne. Nearby, the Tour de la Lanterne offers a breathtaking view of the city and the ocean. La Rochelle's city center is also very pleasant to explore, with its cobbled streets, arcades and half-timbered houses. La Rochelle is also renowned for its aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, home to over 12,000 marine animals, and for its Chef de Baie beach, one of the most beautiful in France!
2. The island of Aix
Ile d'Aix is a small island off the Atlantic coast, accessible only by boat. It offers an exceptional natural setting, with sandy beaches, rocky coves and pine forests. The island of Aix is also rich in history, with its Vauban fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its Napoleon Museum, which traces the history of the emperor and his time on the island. You can also visit Fort Liédot, a military structure built under Napoleon, and Fort de la Rade, located on a nearby islet. Last but not least, the island of Aix is an ideal place to stroll or cycle, and enjoy the tranquility of its unspoilt landscapes.
3. What to do in Charente-Maritimes? Visit Rochefort
Rochefort is a town steeped in history, located on the banks of the Charente River. Founded in the 17th century by Louis XIV, the town is famous for its arsenal, which played an important role in the history of the French Navy. You can visit the Corderie Royale, an impressive 374-meter-long building where ropes for naval vessels were manufactured. The town is also home to the Musée National de la Marine, which traces the history of shipbuilding in Rochefort. Architecture buffs can admire the Place Colbert, lined with 18th-century buildings, and the classically styled Cathédrale Saint-Louis. Finally, Rochefort is also known for its natural heritage, with the Jardin des Retours, a botanical garden home to over 2,000 plant species.
4. Ile de Ré
Ile de Ré is a must-see destination off the coast of La Rochelle, ideal for a romantic weekend in France. Ile de Ré is renowned for its sandy beaches, dunes, salt marshes and picturesque villages. Highlights include the island's capital, Saint-Martin-de-Ré , with its port, Vauban fortifications and church, and the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve, a protected area home to numerous bird species. Gourmets can sample local products such as oysters, mussels, sea salt and Ré wine. Last but not least, the Ile de Ré is also an ideal location for water sports activities such as sailing, kitesurfing and paddle boarding.
5. What to do in Charente-Maritimes Visit the island of Oléron
The Ile d'Oléron is the largest island on France's Atlantic coast. Located off the coast of Rochefort, it is linked to the mainland by a 3-kilometer bridge. The island is renowned for its fine sandy beaches, pine forests, salt marshes and fishing ports. A visit to the Château d'Oléron, a 17th-century fortified citadel, andthe Phare de Chassiron lighthouse at the northern tip of the island, with its breathtaking ocean views, is a must. Nature lovers can enjoy a stroll through the Moëze-Oléron Nature Reserve, a protected area home to numerous species of birds and plants. Gourmets can sample local products such as oysters, mussels, sea salt and pineau des Charentes.
Discover our article dedicated to What to do on the island of Oléron? The 9 must-sees.
6. The Oyster City
The Cité de l'huître is a must-see for lovers of gastronomy and maritime heritage. Located in Marennes-Oléron, this city is dedicated to the cultivation and tasting of oysters, an emblematic product of the region . Visitors can discover the work of oyster farmers, from the birth of the oysters to their harvest and maturation in oyster beds. The Cité de l'huître also offers oyster tastings, accompanied by white wine or buttered bread. Gourmets can also discover other local products, such as mussels, shrimps and pineau des Charentes. Last but not least, the Cité de l'huître offers boat trips in the Charentais inlets, to discover the natural landscapes and traditional oyster huts.
7. Hiers-Brouage
Hiers-Brouage is a fortified town on the Atlantic coast, halfway between La Rochelle and Royan. Founded in the 16th century, the town reached its apogee in the 17th century, thanks to the salt trade. You'll be able to see the town's 1.5 km-long ramparts, cobbled streets and half-timbered houses. The town is also home to the Musée de la Ville et du Sel, which traces the history of the town and its salt trade. Nature lovers can enjoy a walk in the surrounding salt marshes, home to many species of birds. Finally, Hiers-Brouage is also famous for its Gothic-style Saint-Pierre church, which houses a 17th-century organ.
8. What to do in Charentes-Maritimes See Fort Boyard
Fort Boyard is an emblematic monument of the Charente-Maritime region, located off the coast of Ile d'Aix. Built in the 19th century to protect Rochefort harbor, it is now known the world over thanks to the television show of the same name. Although Fort Boyard is not open to the public, it is possible to discover it from the sea, by boarding one of the boats offering cruises around Ile d'Aix. You'll be able to admire the fort's imposing silhouette, with its stone walls and turrets. And who knows? The lucky ones might even catch a glimpse of the show's contestants in the middle of filming!
9. Royan
Royan is a seaside resort on the Atlantic coast, at the mouth of the Gironde estuary. The town is famous for its sandy beaches, Belle Époque villas and 50s architecture . Take advantage of your stay to explore the seafront, with its boutiques and restaurants, as well as the central market, offering local produce. The Parc de l'Estuaire also offers a breathtaking view of the Gironde estuary and the Cordouan lighthouse. The town is also home to several remarkable monuments, such as the modernist Notre-Dame church and the Brutalist Palais des Congrès. Finally, Royan is also an ideal location for water sports activities such as sailing, kitesurfing and surfing.
Discover our dedicated article Top 11 best surfing retreats in France!
10. What to do in Charente-Maritimes? La Palmyre wildlife park
Charentes-Maritimes isn't one of our top family destinations for nothing! Located just a few kilometers from Royan on the Atlantic coast, La Palmyre wildlife park is one of the largest in France, with over 1,600 animals of 115 different species. You'll see emblematic animals such as lions, tigers, giraffes and elephants, as well as rarer species such as okapis, binturongs and golden lion tamarins. La Palmyre Zoo is also committed to the conservation of endangered species, participating in breeding and reintroduction programs. Thrill-seekers can also take advantage of the park's attractions, such as the giant slide and the tree climbing course.
11. Caves of Regulus
The Grottes de Régulus are a natural site located in Meschers-sur-Gironde, on the Atlantic coast. Carved into the limestone cliffs, these caves have been inhabited by man since prehistoric times. Here, you'll see various rooms with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as archaeological remains such as animal bones and prehistoric tools. The Régulus caves are also renowned for their breathtaking views over the Gironde estuary, which can be admired from the cliff's natural balconies. Hiking enthusiasts can also take advantage of the hiking trails along the cliff, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding marshes.
12. Saintes
Saintes is a city of art and history on the banks of the Charente. Founded more than 2,000 years ago, the town's rich and eventful history is reflected in its architectural and cultural heritage. Not to be missed are the remains of the Gallo-Roman era, such as the amphitheatre, the Arch of Germanicus and the Saint-Saloine thermal baths. The city is also home to a number of remarkable monuments, including the Gothic-style Cathedral of Saint-Pierre and the Romanesque-style Abbaye aux Dames. Art lovers can also visit the Musée de l'Échevinage, which houses a collection of paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day.
13. What to do in Charente-Maritimes Visit the Paléosite, Europe's first prehistory interpretation center
The Paléosite is a prehistoric interpretation center in Saint-Césaire, offering an immersion into the life of our prehistoric ancestors, through reconstructions, animations and educational workshops. You can discover the hunting, fishing and gathering techniques of the time, as well as the tools and weapons used by our ancestors. The Paléosite also offers archaeological excavation workshops, so you can discover the skills and techniques of archaeologists. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy prehistoric activities such as mammoth hunting and fire-making. Finally, the Paléosite is also a place for research and conservation of archaeological heritage, with a research laboratory and a collection conservation center.
14. Walking in the Marais Poitevin
Welcome to one of those places where you'd think you were abroad in France! The Marais Poitevin is a regional nature park straddling the departments of Vendée, Deux-Sèvres and Charente-Maritime. Nicknamed the "Green Venice", it covers over 100,000 hectares of marshes, canals and wet meadows. You can discover this unique landscape by paddling, canoeing or cycling along the canals and towpaths to admire the marshland's flora and fauna, with its herons, storks, dragonflies and water lilies. Heritage lovers can also discover traditional marsh villages such as Coulon, Damvix and Arçais, with their stone houses and Romanesque churches. Finally, the Marais Poitevin is also an ideal place for fishing, hiking and birdwatching.
The Marais Poitevin is also one of France's most beautiful destinations for hot-air ballooning!
15. What to do in Charentes-Maritimes Visit Mornac-sur-Seudre
Mornac-sur-Seudre is one of France's most beautiful villages, located on the banks of the River Seudre in the Seudre marshlands. The village is famous for its oyster port, white houses with green shutters and flower-filled alleyways. Be sure to admire the village's architectural heritage, with its 15th-century halles, Romanesque church and traditional stone houses, as well as the workshops of craftsmen and women, such as potters, sculptors and painters, who perpetuate the village's traditional skills. Nature-lovers will love the hiking trails along the Seudre, offering breathtaking views of the marsh and migratory birds.
16. Take the seagull train
The Train des Mouettes is a tourist train that runs from Saujon to La Tremblade, passing through Mornac-sur-Seudre and the wild coastline of the Arvert peninsula. Inaugurated in 1876, it was saved from closure by a volunteer association in 1982, which has been running it ever since. It allows you to discover the varied landscapes of Charente-Maritime, with its marshes, forests, beaches and dunes. The Seagull Train also offers on-board entertainment, including storytelling for children, tastings of local produce and temporary exhibitions. Heritage enthusiasts can also discover the train's historic stations, such as the neo-classical Saujon station and the Belle Époque La Tremblade station.
17. What to do in Charente-Maritimes Visit the Château de la Roche-Courbon
Château de la Roche-Courbon is a 15th-century château in Saint-Porchaire, in the Charente region. Built on a rocky spur above the Bruant River, it is surrounded by a 40-hectare English park. Visitors can explore the architecture of the château, with its towers, moat and drawbridge, as well as the interior, with its tapestries, period furniture and paintings. Château de la Roche-Courbon is also famous for its park, home to century-old trees, formal gardens, waterfalls and grottoes. Prehistory buffs can also visit the château's prehistoric grotto, which was inhabited over 20,000 years ago.
What to do and see in Charente-Maritimes in winter?
Charente-Maritimes isn't just a spring and summer destination. Winter is an ideal time to discover the charms of Charente-Maritimes from a different angle. Although the temperatures are cooler, the landscapes offer particular colors and lights that are well worth the detour. Here are just some of the things to do and see in Charente-Maritimes in winter:
- Stroll along deserted beaches: The beaches of the Atlantic coast are often deserted in winter, allowing you to enjoy an unspoilt natural setting and a breathtaking view of the ocean.
- Museums: Charente-Maritimes boasts a number of museums that trace the region's history and heritage. These include the Musée du Nouveau Monde in La Rochelle, the Musée de l'Île d'Oléron and the Musée national de la Marine in Rochefort.
- Discover charming towns and villages: The Charente-Maritimes region is packed with characterful towns and villages that are well worth a visit. These include La Rochelle, Rochefort, Marennes, Saint-Jean-d'Angély and Brouage.
- Warm up in the spa: Charente-Maritimes boasts a number of spas renowned for their healing waters. These include Jonzac, Rochefort and Saujon.
What to do and see in Charente-Maritimes as a family?
Wondering where to go on vacation this summer ? Charente-Maritimes is an ideal destination, and one of our top places to go in France with children! From beaches and theme parks to museums and outdoor activities, there's something for every taste and age. Here are a few ideas for family visits and activities in Charente-Maritimes:
- Swimming and playing on the beaches: The beaches of the Atlantic coast are perfect for families. Children can swim, build sandcastles and play in the waves.
- Visit theme parks: Charente-Maritimes boasts a number of theme parks to delight young and old alike. These include Parc Aventure in Saint-Jean-d'Angély, Zoo de la Palmyre, Parc de l'Estuaire in Saint-Georges-de-Didonne and Luna Park in La Rochelle.
- Discover fun museums: Charente-Maritimes boasts several museums offering fun activities for children. These include the Musée Maritime in La Rochelle, the Musée de l'Île d'Oléron and the Musée du Jouet in Rochefort.
- Cycling: Charente-Maritimes boasts a highly-developed network of cycle paths, making it an ideal destination for family cycling. Take a look at our Top 11 family cycling routes in France.
- Discover marine animals: Children can discover marine animals by visiting the Aquarium de La Rochelle, the Centre de Découverte des Algues in Oléron or the Parc des Oiseaux du Marais Poitevin.
- Water sports: Families can enjoy water sports such as kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding and surfing.
What to do and see in Charente-Maritimes when it's raining?
Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, you can still enjoy your stay in Charente-Maritimes. Here are a few ideas for visits and activities to do indoors or under cover when it's raining:
- Visiting museums: Charente-Maritimes boasts a number of museums that trace the region's history and heritage. These include the Musée Maritime de La Rochelle, the Musée du Nouveau Monde in La Rochelle, the Musée de l'Île d'Oléron and the Musée National de la Marine in Rochefort.
- Aquariums: Charente-Maritimes has several aquariums where you can discover marine animals. These include the Aquarium de La Rochelle, the Centre de Découverte des Algues in Oléron and the Parc des Oiseaux du Marais Poitevin.
- Relax in wellness centers: Charente-Maritimes boasts several wellness centers offering treatments and massages. These include the Thermes de Jonzac, the Thermes de Rochefort and the Thermes de Saujon.
- Taste local produce: Charente-Maritimes is renowned for its local produce, including Marennes-Oléron oysters, cognac, pineau des Charentes and Bouchot mussels. Many restaurants and oyster bars offer indoor tastings of these products.
- Visiting churches and abbeys: Charente-Maritimes has many churches and abbeys worth a visit. These include the Abbaye de Sablonceaux, Église Saint-Pierre in La Rochelle and Église Notre-Dame in Royan.
Where to stay in Charente-Maritime?
For those looking for accommodation in Charente-Maritime, camping is a popular and affordable option that we recommend. There are many campsites in the region, ranging from simple camping sites to luxury campsites with swimming pools, spas and children's entertainment. Campsites are often located close to beaches, forests or tourist sites, making them a convenient choice for families and nature lovers. Tempted? Check out our article Where to camp in Charente-Maritime? 3 must-see places.
Of course, there are also other accommodation solutions in Charente-Maritime, such as hotels, bed & breakfasts, gîtes and vacation rentals, offering different levels of comfort and services to suit everyone's needs and desires.
Tempted by our selection? Take a look at our train ticket prices and book now!
