From the atlantic coast beaches to the vineyards of Cognac, for history lovers or those who enjoy the excitement of new discoveries, Charente-Maritime offers you a wide range of leisure activities. With its mix of nature and tradition, this welcoming and unusual land, rich in culture and history, is also a place of leisure and discovery.

With around 450 kms of coastline, Charente-Maritime has more than 110 fine sandy beaches surrounded by pine trees and inspired by limestone cliffs and wildlife areas. Bathed in sunlight and rocked in the balmy ocean air, the Atlantic coast offers you small corners of paradise: gentle climate, beautiful beaches, pine tree forests, seaside houses with blue shutters and trails hollyhocks. Why not also come and discover “the pearls of the ocean” that are the 4 islands of Charente Maritime: Oléron, Ré, Aix and “l’île Madame”.

For nature lovers, from the blue of the ocean to the green of the countryside, Charente-Maritime is a land of contrast. Whether you are a leisure walker or a biker, come and explore our countryside, discover its colours (vineyards, fields of corn and sunflowers), the calm of the riverbank (Charente valley), the flora and fauna from all over the world (Palmyre zoo, Jardins du Monde) or plunge into the heart of the Atlantic at the Aquarium in La Rochelle.

More than a simple tourist destination, Charente-Maritime is a region of tradition and history, which can be seen through its 400 Roman churches, its chateaux and its archaeological sites (Saintes amphitheatre, Gallo-roman site of Le Fâ). For centuries, the generations have preserved its history, giving you a reeal chance to travel in time…

Charente-Maritime also has a surprising diversity of tradition and friendliness, apparent in its “art de vivre”, which is both genuine and warm.

For gourmet lovers, take time to discover the regional cuisine which is both varied and traditional. Renowned for their flavours, the local produce (Cognac, PIneau, Oysters from Marennes-Oléron, mussels, goats cheese and even melons) will invade your senses and enchant even the most discerning diner. Don’t be shy to meet and talk to the local producers, at the local markets where there is always a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Finally, let yourself go and take part in the numerous festivities organised by the towns ans villages of Aunis and Saintonge. Music from the world, open air concerts, exhibitions, theatre productions, “La fête” follows its own rhythm and will welcome you with open arms.