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Poitou Charentes guide
All along the coast you'll find magnificent beaches and opportunities for all kinds of water sport. Inland, the lush countryside features wooded valleys, sleepy villages, and the famous Cognac vineyards. Poitiers is one of France's oldest cities, while the nearby Futuroscope attraction is the ultimate in high-tech.
Activities & attractions
What can we eat?
Try the melon, oysters, butter, frog's legs and goat's cheeses.
What can we drink?
Brandy and Pineau de Charente - an apéritif that is wonderful poured into a ripe Charentais melon. Inexpensive wines to complement the good regional country cooking.
Where can we visit?
The chic seaside resort of La Rochelle and its great flea market. The islands of Oléron and Ré and the Roman remains at Saintes.
What can we do?
Boating in the Marais Poitevin. Free distillery tours at Cognac.
And what about the kids?
Take them to Planète Futuroscope - an amazing cinema theme park which is dedicated to the moving image. La Palmyre Zoo, near Royan, is also excellent.
Region overview
The regional capital of Poitiers is one of France's oldest cities, and the 4th century St Jean bapistry here is the country's oldest example of Christian architecture. Futuroscope on the other hand, just outside of Poitiers, is ultra modern. A high-tech theme park devoted to the moving image, it features the world's largest screens and very latest projection techniques, making it a fantastic day out for all the family.
With its delightful old harbour, the chic resort of La Rochelle is western France's foremost yachting centre, while further south along the coast at Royan, you'll find La Palmyre Zoo, with over 1600 animals, it is the largest in France.
Marais Poitevin is very similar to the Norfolk Broads, but warmer and far less windy. You can explore the area in a punt, or via the many miles of cycling tracks. And don't forget to visit the pretty medieval town of Cognac. Yes, there are free distillery tours where you can taste the fabled nectar.
Map of Poitou Charentes
