While you’re on holiday, explore some of the local heritage of the Charente region. Succumb to the charm of towns and villages whose traditional architecture is still intact. 13 remarkable ‘Villages of Stone and Water’ on the water’s edge (ocean, rivers, marshland); 6 of the country’s Plus Beaux Villages (Most Beautiful Towns and Villages), where the atmosphere, history, heritage and way of life will amaze you at every step; 8 unique Petites Cités de Caractère (Small Towns of Character); and 4 Villes et Pays d’Art et d’Histoire (Towns of Art and History) in Rochefort, Saintes, Cognac and Royan. Don’t forget the listed historical sites, museums, châteaux, forts, ancient ruins and various Romanesque churches in Charente, 5 of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit our châteaux, a vestige of centuries gone by. Château de La Rochefoucauld and Château de La Roche Courbon are among the finest examples. Embrace the major cultural events held in Charente throughout the year. Two unmissable examples are the International Comics Festival in Angoulême and Les Francofolies in La Rochelle, the third largest music festival in France. Charente is guaranteed to make an impression.
Culture & heritage
Stimulate your senses

maritime heritage
Forts floating in the sea
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In 17th-century France, the Royal Navy was suffering a lack of sea-worthy vessels. One of Louis XIV’s…

maritime heritage
48 hours in Rochefort
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Things to do in Rochefort Visit Rochefort for the weekend and submerge yourself in a town whose…

typical towns and villages
Rochefort: the Hermione is ready for boarding!
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Rochefort loves the sea and ocean voyages, and it offers an array of impressive sites which are…