About Charente Maritime
Charente-Inférieure was one of the 83 original departments created during the French Revolution on March 4, 1790. On September 4, 1941, it was renamed Charente-Maritime.
Climate
The climate is mild and sunny, with less than 900 mm of precipitation per year. Average temperatures in summer are around 27°C.
Useful links
French website for the region
Official tourism site of Charente-Maritme
English tourism site
The Charente Maritime is a largely rural area with rolling fields of sunflowers and grape vines occasionally punctuated by a beautiful hamlet, village or town.
There are no end of Chateaux to visit, many churches and monasteries, forests, parks, markets and fetes. And don't forget all the fantastic restaurants with local delicacies to savour all accompanied by a chilled glass of the local 'pineau'.
For the more adventurous, there are extensive entertainment opportunities including golf, various watersports, horse riding etc, all within easy reach of Le Gicq. Within 20 minutes drive of Le Gicq, there are many beautiful and famous towns...
The area around our Gites
Cognac
Hennessy. Martell. Remy Martin. Otard. Famous names from a famous place and only 20 minutes from Le Gicq. Just like there is a difference between fizzy white wine and Champagne, there is also the same analogy with brandy and Cognac. Brandy produced anywhere else in the world cannot be called Cognac. You can visit one of the famous Cognac houses (Hennessy is always a favourite, especially the boat trip on the river Charente), tour the beautiful 17th Century architecture, visit one of the many festivals (Fete du Cognac, Blues Festival, Street Arts etc.) or just relax in a restaurant on the banks of the river.
Situated on the right bank of the River Boutonne, St Jean D'Angely is a beautiful medieval town which boasts an Abbey which was originally built in 817 and rebuilt in the 17th Century. The twin towers of the Abbaye Royale can be seen from many miles away. Apart from the architecture, there is a regular market in the bustling centre. For the kids, there is an indoor waterpark (Atlantys) with various pools and a slide. If you fancy a change of pace (literally) there is also a full size go-kart track for all the speed freaks amongst you.
Surgeres
Famed for its lovely butter and cheese, Surgeres is a fortified town with a 17th Century chateau, Romanesque church and market 3 days a week (plus weekly night market during the Summer). Also home to one of the finest bakeries in the region (their Chausson au Pomme has to be tasted to be believed... something to do with a touch of cinnamon apparently...)
Saintes
Founded in 20 BC, set on the banks of the Charente river and with stunning Roman architecture / remains, Saintes is a must-visit location. Many things to see and do from the Cathedral St Pierre to the triumphal Arch of Germanicus, the ruins of a Roman amphitheatre (which hosts free live shows throughout the Summer) to the Abbaye-aux-Dames. Bring your camera.
St Savinien
One definitely for the kids or people who love boats. Or both. Picture postcard village, right by the river. For the little ones, there is a small lake with miniature electric boats for them to sail around. For the slightly bigger enthusiasts you can hire a full sized boat to have a trip down the Charente river. Either way, a highly recommended day out.
Travel a little further (up to an hour) and you have some of the best beaches in Europe, stunning fishing villages, the most incredible freshly caught seafood, a world class Zoo and much, much more. Some of the highlights are as follows...
Picturesque coastal town with an extensive array of superb seafood restaurants (try Andre's near the twin port towers). Plenty of chic boutiques for the well heeled Parisians who tend to have holiday homes here or a boat in Les Minimes, the largest harbour for pleasure boats in Europe. Children of all ages will adore the Aquarium which houses a dazzling selection sea life. Also try the beaches just down the coast at Chatellailon-sur-Plage - a traditional French seaside resort which has lost none of its charm and has a lovely and reasonably quiet seafront.
The most popular zoo in France with over 1600 animals including Polar Bears, Chimpanzees, Panthers, Giraffes, Hippos etc. Very well laid out, with a genuinely open feel to the enclosures. There are regular shows throughout the day which are both entertaining and educational (with the emphasis being on conservation). No wonder it's won so many awards. Also very close to several excellent beaches so well worth taking the full day to explore.
Royan
It's all about the beaches here - some of the best along the West coast of France. Both fashionable and popular with French and foreign tourists, Royan has a wide selection of sandy beaches (which are safe for children). Plenty of high quality beachfront cafes and restaurants to indulge your passion for seafood. Sailing and windsurfing also available at several locations along the largest stretch of beach (around 2km).
Both are islands of the West coast. Both are truly beautiful. Saint Martin, the capital of Ile de Re, is achingly pretty (especially at sunset). Great bars and cafes right on the harbour front and plenty of superb restaurants. Ile d'Oleron is much bigger but no less pretty. If oysters are your thing, then some of the best (and freshest) are available here.
http://www.ile-oleron-marennes.com
Futuroscope
Near Poitiers, this innovative theme park is dedicated to film, video and internet technologies. More than 40 of the latest video games to play, an Imax cinema with 3D imagery, the latest in robotics etc. Over 25 attractions to enjoy for the entire family.
Some nearby areas of interest and attractions
