Guide to the Charente-Maritime

Landscape & Climate The Charente Maritime derives its name from the River Charente, flowing from the sea through picturesque villages, past the historic naval port of Rochefort and the romanesque capital of Saintes, to Angouleme in the Charente. It has a wonderful coast line with expansive golden sandy beaches, dotted with traditonal fishing huts, grottos and caves. There is something for everyone; from the old port of La Rochelle to the lovely islands of Re, Aix and Oleron, from traditional seaside towns like Royan to the quieter resorts along the estuary, such as the pretty peninsular village of Talmont. Inland, there are expanses of corn and sunflower fields, vines and pine forests. The climate is mild with a maritme influence by the coast, the early spring sunshine leading to hot sunny days that last well into autumn. Alongwith the Charente, it has the highest annual level of sunshine after the Medeterranean

Gastronomy & Wines The Charente Maritime is renowned for some of the best seafood in France, particularly oysters and mussels. Other regional dishes include magret de canard and confit de canard (duck) and recipes with veal and saucisson. Not far from the famous town of Cognac in the neighbouring Charente, you can enjoy a tasting of this excellent digestif at local producers or whilst strolling around one of the weekly street markets abundant with fresh produce, cheeses and wine. You can also sample another regional speciality, an aperatif called Pineau des Charentes (red or white, but always served chilled), made from a fine blending of cognac and grape juice. Along the coast, in country towns and villages, you can always find somewhere special to eat out, whether it's a fresh fish by the sea, fine cuisine at a chateau or traditional fare at a farm auberge.

History & Culture This department has a rich maritime history. Places of interest include an interesting naval museum at Rochefort, an Oyster centre at Oleron, the lighthouse at Re, the acquarium and Lantern Tower(lighthouse)at La Rochelle harbour. There also many places of historical interest, from prehistoric times to the present day, such as the romanesque Saint Peter's Church at Aulnay, the look-out turrets along the town walls at Brouage harbour, the stone age tombs at Bougon and the oldest metal mines in Europe at Melle. There are also many pretty villages, one of the most beautiful is Talmont with its 12th century church overlooking the Gironde estuary, its quaint low cottages and narrow streets leading to the harbour.

Outdoor Life & Activities With its superb coastline, quiet country roads, nature reserves, cycling trails, leisure parks, lakes, lagoons and rivers, this is a great area to enjoy the outdoor life. Everything from swimming, horseriding, pedallos and fishing to mountain biking, tennis, boules and simple country walks. Popular pastimes also include boat trips on the River Charente or along the Gironde estaury from Royan or enjoying the thermal spa waters at Jonzac. Or you can just take it easy by following the wine tasting trails or exploring local sites at leisure. There also many events and festivals, such as Francofolies and the boat show at La Rochelle, weekly night markets at Montendre and Jonzac. Richard Lees FrenchFriends - Holiday Gite in SW France Myfrenchfriends - superb Gourmet and short breaks in SW France