The 13 most beautiful villages to discover around La Rochelle
1. La Flotte: A charming port in the heart of the Ile de Ré
Imagine a picturesque little port, lined with white houses with green shutters, where time seems to stand still. That’s what you get when you visit La Flotte. This village, listed as one of the most beautiful in France, invites you to stroll through its narrow flower-lined streets, linger at its medieval market, and enjoy the breathtaking views over the ocean from its typical Charente Maritime promenade.
La Flotte also boasts a rich historical heritage, with its Vauban fortifications and the Chateliers abbey, a testimony to the medieval era. The port of La Flotte was first a trading port where salt and wine were exported, then a fishing port before becoming a marina. And for nature lovers, the surrounding salt marshes offer a rejuvenating walk.
2. Brouage: A dive into history
Once a thriving salt-trading port, Brouage is now a veritable open-air museum. Fortified walls, cobbled streets, period houses… every street corner is an invitation to step back in time. Don’t miss a visit to the Place d’Armes and the church of Saint-Pierre-et-Paul, veritable jewels of 17th-century military architecture.
As well as its built heritage, Brouage is also famous for its exceptional flora and fauna. The Brouage marshes, a protected natural area, are a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
3. Coulon: New Aquitaine’s green Venice
Situated in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, Coulon is nicknamed ‘Green Venice’. This village offers the unique experience of sailing on canals lined with trees and green meadows. Whether you opt for a traditional rowboat or a canoe, the ride is truly enchanting. And for the more adventurous, Coulon also offers hiking trails through the marshes.
Coulon is also a village full of charm, with its half-timbered houses, flower-filled lanes and Romanesque church. Not to mention its gastronomy, with its emphasis on marsh products such as eels and goat’s cheese.
4. Ars-en-Ré: A jewel on the Ile de Ré
Situated at the western end of the Ile de Ré, Ars-en-Ré is a village that has managed to preserve its authenticity. Its typical harbour, its white houses with green shutters decorated with hollyhocks and its charming church with its black-and-white bell tower are just some of the postcards waiting for you.
Ars-en-Ré is also an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. From the fine sandy beaches by the sea to the salt marshes and cycle paths through the vineyards, there’s something for everyone.
5. Arçais: A haven of peace in the Marais Poitevin
Arçais is the promise of a beautiful escape in the heart of the Marais Poitevin. This village, surrounded by canals and lush green meadows, offers an idyllic setting in which to recharge your batteries. Whether you prefer to stroll along the water’s edge, hire a boat to explore the canals, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet, Arçais promises a complete change of scenery.
And if you fancy a gourmet break, don’t hesitate to stop off at one of the village’s restaurants, which serve local specialities based on products from the marsh.
6. Mornac-sur-Seudre: A village of craftsmen by the water
Listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, Mornac-sur-Seudre is a veritable treasure trove of charm. This craft village, with its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, offers a warm, authentic atmosphere. Don’t miss a visit to the craftsmen’s workshops, where you can discover traditional skills.
Mornac-sur-Seudre is also a picturesque port, where you can sample oysters while admiring the sunset over the Seudre estuary. And for hiking enthusiasts, the coastal path offers an unforgettable walk through the salt marshes.
7. Ile d’Aix: A natural setting off the coast of La Rochelle
Located off the coast of La Rochelle, Ile d’Aix is a haven of peace. Accessible only by boat, this small island offers breathtaking scenery, with its fine sandy beaches, pine forests and salt marshes. There’s nothing like a bike ride or a walk to discover the island. And for an unforgettable experience, why not opt for a night in a bivouac under the stars?
The island of Aix also boasts a rich historical heritage, with Fort Liédot, Napoleon’s house and the African museum. An ideal destination for combining nature and culture.
8. Marans: A river stopover just a stone’s throw from La Rochelle
Situated on the banks of the Sèvre Niortaise, Marans is a village with a seductive river atmosphere. Its marina, lively quays and covered market are all great opportunities to stroll around and enjoy the local atmosphere. And to discover the surrounding area, why not opt for a boat trip or a walk along the river?
Marans also has an architectural heritage worth discovering, with its Saint-Étienne church, unique in France with its reinforced concrete structure, and its Beauregard mill, which offers a panoramic view over the town and the river.
9. Saint-Savinien-sur-Charente : A village perched on a rock
Perched on a rock overlooking the Charente, Saint-Savinien-sur-Charente is a village full of charm. Not far from Rochefort, its narrow streets, stone houses and castle offer a picturesque and authentic setting. Be sure to visit the church of Saint-Savinien, which offers a panoramic view over the Charente valley.
But Saint-Savinien-sur-Charente is also an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Between the river, ideal for fishing and canoeing, and the hiking trails that criss-cross the surrounding countryside, there’s something for everyone.
10. Saint-Martin-de-Ré: A fortified jewel on the Ile de Ré
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is the quintessential island of Ré. This fortified village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an exceptional setting, with its picturesque port, flower-filled lanes and white houses with green shutters. Don’t miss a visit to the citadel and ramparts, which offer a breathtaking view of the ocean and salt marshes.
And for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors, Saint-Martin-de-Ré also has fine sandy beaches, cycle paths through vineyards and marshes, and famous surfing spots. So don’t hesitate, head for the Ile de Ré!
11. Fouras: A seaside resort between land and sea
Situated at the mouth of the Charente, Fouras is a seaside resort that has preserved its charm of yesteryear. Its five beaches, Belle Époque casino and Vauban fort provide the ideal setting for a holiday combining relaxation and discovery. And for an unforgettable experience, don’t miss crossing the Banc des Bûcherots on foot at low tide.
Fouras is also a gourmet destination, renowned for its oysters and bouchot mussels. And for nature lovers, the Coubre forest and the Moëze-Oléron nature reserve offer some great walks and cycle rides.
12. Mauzé-sur-le-Mignon: A village in the heart of the Marais Poitevin
Situated in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, Mauzé-sur-le-Mignon is a village that will win you over with its authenticity. Its half-timbered houses, Romanesque church and water mill offer a picturesque setting full of charm. And to discover the surrounding area, why not opt for a boat trip or a bike ride?
Mauzé-sur-le-Mignon is also a gourmet destination, renowned for its local produce, such as churned butter, goat’s cheese and wildflower honey.
13. Saint-Trojan-les-Bains: A seaside resort with Belle Époque charm
Located at the southernmost tip of the Ile d’Oléron, Saint-Trojan-les-Bains is a seaside resort that has preserved its Belle Époque charm. Its villas with colourful facades, its little tourist train and its casino offer the ideal setting for a holiday combining relaxation and discovery.
Saint-Trojan-les-Bains is also an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Between the beaches, the Saumonards forest and the cycle paths, there’s something for everyone. And for an unforgettable experience, don’t miss a trip out to sea to discover the Chassiron lighthouse and oyster beds.
And that’s the end of our picturesque journey around La Rochelle. These twelve village nuggets are just a sample of what the region has to offer. Between heritage, nature and gastronomy, each village offers a unique experience, an invitation to slow down and savour the moment. So, are you ready for adventure?
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