The Charentes region is known for its sunny beaches and lively towns, but it has much more to offer. Whether you love history, good food or beautiful landscapes, there are plenty of activities not to be missed in the Charentes, even in winter. Between local produce and history, far from the crowds of the high season, winter is the ideal time to visit everything Charentes has to offer. In this article, we will discover the secrets of the different towns in Charentes, from La Rochelle to Angoulême via Royan, Cognac and Saintes.
La Rochelle, the historical and aquatic splendour of the Charentes region
On the west coast of France, this historic port city offers a special experience by blending old-world charm with a few modern touches. With its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, bustling harbours, culinary delights and rich history, La Rochelle attracts travellers seeking an authentic experience. Among the many remarkable places in La Rochelle, we can mention a few.
The Old Port of La Rochelle is a must-see attraction. It is a place steeped in history, surrounded by cafés and restaurants that create a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. You can stroll along the quays, watch the fishing boats return to port and sample fresh seafood while admiring the view of the city’s famous towers. It is truly a charming place to relax and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.
The old town, or historic centre, of La Rochelle is a maze of narrow streets lined with charming half-timbered houses. It is the ideal place to stroll around and soak up the city’s charm. In winter, there are fewer tourists, making sightseeing a much more pleasant experience.
The La Rochelle Aquarium is ranked among the largest and most impressive in Europe. Located near the Old Port, it will transport you to a fascinating underwater world. You will have the opportunity to admire a multitude of marine creatures, from majestic sharks to colourful tropical fish, as well as a multitude of jellyfish species, some of which are among the rarest in the world.
Just opposite La Rochelle, discover the Île de Ré, a real treasure of the Atlantic coast. It is easily accessible from La Rochelle via a bridge. This island is known for its golden sandy beaches, pretty villages, cycle paths and delicious cuisine. In winter, the island takes on a completely different atmosphere. You won’t find as many restaurants or bars open, but the small villages will be much more peaceful and quiet than in high season. You can admire and explore these mini towns in complete tranquillity. You will also have the chance to admire the oyster harvest, an essential part of the island’s heritage.
Royan, the seaside resort of Charentes
Royan is a charming little town located between the Gironde estuary and the Atlantic coast! The seaside resort of Royan is known for its fine sandy beaches. In winter, you can enjoy beautiful walks along the seafront, but the town also has other things to offer winter tourists!
The port of Royan is the lively centre of the town, where you can stroll along listening to the sounds of the boat masts. Walk to the end of the Quai des Sabliers to enjoy the most beautiful view of Royan. Depending on the time of day, fishermen return to port with their precious catch, which they then sell at the fish market.
The Royan Museum is located in the former Pontaillac market, in the heart of the town’s historic district. Its collections are organised in such a way as to reveal Royan’s rich history, which has undergone many changes, following a specific route.
The La Palmyre Zoo and Planète Exotica animal parks are open even in winter! You can admire wildlife from all over the world in these two parks full of surprises! They are both great places to visit during a family holiday with young children!
Saintes, discover the Charentes region during the Gallo-Roman period
Saintes is a town located in the Charente-Maritime department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. As the historic capital of Saintonge, Saintes has a rich architectural and cultural heritage. The town is known for its Roman ruins, including an amphitheatre and a triumphal arch. Saintes is also notable for its Abbaye aux Dames and its charming medieval streets. The town offers a harmonious blend of history, culture and provincial charm. Here are just a few of its attractions:
The Arch of Germanicus was an important gate in the Roman city. Located just before the bridge that crossed the Charente River, the Arch of Germanicus had two arches for the two directions of traffic at that time. It is a simple monument with fluted columns and decorated capitals, bearing inscriptions on a horizontal structure. It is one of the best-preserved Roman remains in the city of Saintes.
The Gallo-Roman amphitheatre is one of 18 important sites chosen for the 2019 Heritage Lottery. Built between 40 and 50 AD, this amphitheatre is located in a natural valley. It can be reached by following a rural path from the town. Its impressive dimensions bear witness to the power of the city in the 1st century, making it probably one of the oldest amphitheatres built in Gaul.
Today, the Abbaye aux Dames has the status of a Cultural Meeting Centre and is mainly dedicated to music, whether inherited from the past or created today. It encourages artists in their research and creates innovative links between the site’s heritage and the artistic practices it hosts. In addition, it has a programme to raise awareness and train professionals and local residents, thereby contributing to the transmission of knowledge.
Angoulême, the artistic city of Charentes
Angoulême has been named the world capital of comic books. That is why murals, some of which are very impressive due to their size, depict the world of comic books throughout the city. When talking about exceptional places in Angoulême, we can mention:
The Comic Strip Museum has a simple and elegant layout that showcases the original works: comic strips, drawings and related items form an exceptional collection that is unique in Europe. The Comic Strip Museum organises temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, conferences and other events. It’s a good reason to come back often to discover the treasures that the museum has to offer.
On the same theme, don’t miss the International Comic Strip Festival, which will take place from 25 to 28 January 2024. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover the latest comic strip releases and trends, or rediscover the great classics we’ve all known since childhood! Writers, illustrators and publishers from around the world will be there to share their work with the public. Some very interesting and enriching exchanges are expected!
Exploring the city is a great idea when the winter sun warms the atmosphere! Angoulême offers a beautiful route to follow. Between the ramparts, which offer incredible views of the city, the quays, which take you on a lovely bucolic stroll, and the old town steeped in history, lovers of heritage and nature will be delighted!
Cognac, the terroir in Charentes
Visiting Cognac means discovering a town rich in history and culinary delights. The birthplace of François I, it is best known for its liqueur of the gods, which has made it famous throughout the world. It is a chosen immersion in the dream town of angels. Among the magnificent places in Cognac, we can mention:
The public garden in Cognac which took shape thanks to the acquisition of two sites, the Hôtel Otard de la Grange and the Hôtel Dupuy d’Angeac, by the town of Cognac. Today, they house the Town Hall and the Municipal Museum. The Cognac garden was classified as a historic site in 1943 and features English-style elements such as a pagoda, an orangery, grottoes and winding paths.
The Château de Cognac has had an eventful history, having been destroyed in the 12th century and then rebuilt in the 15th century. It is famous for having been home to a princely and royal family, including King Francis I, who was born there in 1494. Inside, there are interesting places to discover, such as the Salle du Casque (Helmet Room), the Tour du Comte Jean (Count Jean’s Tower), and a beautiful vaulted room called the Salle des États (Hall of States). Today, the château belongs to the Otard Cognac House.
Visits to Cognac houses with tastings! How about setting off on a fabulous journey of discovery to the various Cognac producers in the area? It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the history of the region and discover the terroir while treating your senses! Especially since winter is distillation season! So don’t hesitate to continue your discovery and treat yourself to a visit to a distillery to smell the aromas of the newly produced Charente eaux-de-vie.
In summary, winter in Charentes offers a variety of experiences that invite you to discover a rich heritage and unique atmospheres. Each town in the two Charentes regions contributes to creating a special atmosphere. So, let yourself be carried away by the magic of winter in this region full of surprises, a season where cultural richness and tranquillity combine to create unforgettable memories.
