Holidays to Charente-Maritime

Why Charente-Maritime?

The name of this place tells you a little about the type of holiday resort this is. Maritime museums, lighthouses, ports and fishing are some of the facilities on offer and suit families with young children, couples and groups . Although seafood is in abundance, Japanese, Asian and Brazilian dishes are also available. There is a nostalgic and historical ambiance to this area and many waterside resorts provide information on the most popular venues.

Popular areas to stay in Charente-Maritime

Stuck on where to go? Check out the best resorts and towns to base your holiday

Rochefort

A little inland town in the Charente-Maritime department of western France, not far from Rochefort and Royan, Saint-Vaize has a typically French feel, with its farmhouses and pretty churches. This is the perfect place to come if you want to experience the real, rural France, while still being close to some of the better-known hot spots, such as La Rochelle.

Who is it for?

Couples

Stay in a quiet, off-the-beaten track place and enjoy some real solitude.

Foodies

You’re not far from the Cognac region of France. Also, pick up locally produced artisan cheeses.

Nature Lovers

The countryside around here is picture-postcard perfect, so it’s lovely for long walks.

Room price from

£28

per person per night

Rochelle

Take the bridge from La Rochelle to Il de Ré and drive to the island’s La Couarde-Sur-Mer region. It’s buzzing, fun and the people are very welcoming when it comes to tourists. Most folk head here to avail of the long, unspoilt beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, and the area is geared up to keep visitors happy.

Who is it for?

Families

The beaches are perfect for children. They can play in the soft white sand and frolic in the shallow waters.

Foodies

With bustling food markets, great seafood and reliable French eateries, there’s much to offer the gourmet.

Beach Lovers

With 7 kilometres of glorious sand here, there’s a real seaside-resort feel to this part of the island.

Room price from

£19

per person per night

Les Mathes

Located in the Charente-Maritime department on France’s west coast, Les Mathes is perhaps best known for its beach, Les Palmyre. It’s a huge protected natural bay, with a long, arching spit, so it’s perfect for all kinds of watersports as you’re protected from the open Atlantic. There are also several oyster beds in the area, too.