Elegant and timeless, the sundrenched region of Poitou-Charentes is an idyllic location with long sandy beaches, limestone cliffs and lush countryside. Poitou-Charentes holiday cottages offer visitors the option of enjoying all the benefits of the Atlantic Ocean or the lush flora and fauna of its green hills.
The four dèpartements of the region - Charente, Deux-Sèvres, Charente-Maritime and Vienne are the sunniest of the Atlantic West, with 2,400 hours of sunshine a year.
The location of the region is perfect as it is warmer than the north, whilst avoiding the stifling heat that can affect southern regions in the in the summer. Winter is mild and there is just enough rainfall throughout the year to keep the green scenery surrounding many Poitou-Charentes holiday cottages lush and fertile.
Locals celebrate the region’s rich history whilst embracing new technology meaning that there is a wide variety of attractions. One of the most popular tourist sites is the Futuroscope theme park in Poitiers. The park features all the latest image technologies and creates shows, exhibits and displays that take the audience on phenomenal journeys through time, space and nature. There is also interactive entertainment, fountains and a children’s play area. This modern wonder is a must-see for anybody staying in a holiday cottage in Poitou-Charentes.
The region lay on a medieval pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela which means that there are many churches which bear Romanesque features. Saintes is also home to a variety of Roman relics, whilst Poiters boasts the magnificent church of Notre-Dame-la-Grande.
Stout defences protect the Charente Maritime ports of La Rochelle and Rochefort, which look out to sea towards the island of Oloron, the Ile de Re and tiny Ile d'Aix, where Napoleon was briefly held.
At the silted-up port of Brouage, once capital of the local salt trade, you can still walk on the turreted ramparts. There are many historic sites located within visiting distance of most holiday cottages in Poitou-Charentes.
The unique landscape of the region includes Marais Poitevin - a patchwork of lush marshes, bursting in wildlife and beautiful plant life which is known as “Green Venice”. Here punts can be hired to explore the 'Venise Verte' or cruise the River Sevre. Other natural highlights of the region includes its natural parks which offer fantastic walking and cycling routes, within reach of many holiday cottages. Poitou-Charentes natural parks include La Vallee de Singes, where 350 monkeys roam freely.
The city of Cognac the birthplace of the “Liqueur of the Gods” is another highlight of this part of France. During a visit to this city you can enjoy a guided tour of the distillation areas, cellars and bottling areas, whilst learning about how the city’s famous beverage is made. Cognac is also home to a variety of sights including The Château des Valois, birthplace of King François. Of course during your time in the city you will be able to enjoy a cognac-tonic (cognac and soda) in a café or find a bottle of the delectable brand to enjoy in the comfort of your own holiday cottage in Poitou-Charentes.
Finally a short cruise to explore the islands of Ré, Oléron and Aix is a must during a visit to any of the holiday cottages in Poitou-Charentes. The unspoilt beauty, quaint villages and breathtaking coastline will no doubt be one of the most memorable parts of you stay in France.
'Sandy beaches, fields of sunflowers, historic towns and excellent restaurants - just a few of the reasons why we came to the Poitou-Charentes and stayed.' (Marie Tanguy, Domaine de la Nauve)