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Charente-Maritime is the perfect destination to recharge your batteries on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. You can explore the legendary Cognac vineyards, visit the listed heritage sites, stroll through the charming villages and enjoy great cycling on our cycle routes.
Charente-Maritime offers a wide range of activities for an exceptional holiday.
The route starts in Montlieu-La-Garde, former county town. The tour then continues to Montendre, a village built around the remains of its medieval castle. Mirambeau, Gémozac and Arvert are the next destinations, all with a rich cultural heritage.
The tour then passes through Saint-Denis d'Oléron commune the most northerly of the island, continuing on to Saint-Martin-de-Ré and Le Bois Plage en Ré, before finishing at La Couarde Sur Mer, famous for its magnificent beaches, considered to be the most beautiful on the coast.
Montlieu-La-Garde (1,231 inhabitants) lies at the heart of the Atlantic Arc. For many years, it was the highest administrative centre in the Charente-Maritime region.
Montendre, a commune built around the remains of its medieval castle, has a population of 3,260. Since 2001, it has been renowned for hosting the Free Music Festival. Montendre also boasts a wide range of educational, cultural and health facilities.
Mirambeau is a small town with a population of around 1,500. It lies at the foot of a cuesta. The town is served by several major roads, including the A10 motorway, which puts it less than half an hour from Bordeaux, Saintes or Royan.
Gémozac is located in the heart of Saintonge, between woods and vineyards, close to the beaches of the Pays royannais and the Gironde estuary. Gémozac, which now has a population of almost 2,800, is continuing to grow and strengthen its appeal within the Saintonge Romane region.
Arvert (population 3100) is a place of relaxation, concealing a dynamic town with leisure facilities, shops, signposted walking trails and a host of summer events.
Saint-Denis d'Oléron is the island's most northerly commune. It has 1300 inhabitants. It has preserved its heritage and exceptional environment, offering a wide range of activities and discoveries.
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is a must-visit village on the Ile de Ré. Built around its harbour and protected by its ramparts, Saint-Martin-de-Ré has a population of 2,200.
Le Bois plage en Ré is situated on the south coast in the centre of the Ile de Ré. It's a village of long, winding streets and lanes lined with white houses. The community life is very diversified and facilitates the daily life of the residents of the commune. There are currently 2250 residents.
La Couarde Sur Mer (population 1,172) is renowned for its beaches, which are considered to be the most beautiful on the whole island and even on the coast.
