City Breaks in Poitou-Charentes

Poitou-Charentes at a glance

The Atlantic coastline of Poitou-Charentes covers 280 miles of pristine, diverse landscapes and beautifully preserved heritage offering an authentic atmosphere full of sights. Diverse, historic villages provide a charming atmosphere to explore local culture, while bustling seaside promenades and the regions famous vineyards and culinary specialties make its food and wine scene hard to resist.

Most of North America’s Acadian and Cajun population can trace their roots back to this region. Early on, the area was under Gallic, Roman, Visagoth, and English rule before finally falling to the French crown. Today the region is divided into four areas – the Charente, Charente-Maritime, Deux-Sèvres and the Vienne, each providing their own unique charm and attractions.

Visit historic La Rochelle, with its renaissance architecture, aquarium and maritime museum. Inland, head to Cognac country and take one of the many distillery tours or visit the archeological site of Paléosite to see what life was like in prehistoric times.

Perfect if you’re looking for:

• Beachfront attractions
• Indulgent cusine
• Historic attractions

Getting around

Renting a car, or bringing your own car by ferry, is a great way to explore the coast, countryside and cities of this region. There is also a bus service that runs throughout the four principle areas of Poitou-Charentes, with timetables available at train and bus stations as well as tourist offices. 

Dining in Poitu-Charentes

In a region dominated by coastline, some of the country’s finest cuisine and best seafood can be found here; visit the oyster beds of Marennes-Oléron or enjoy a fresh, local favourite at a neighbourhood brasserie. The area is also famous for its smooth cognac and its fortified wine, pineau. Goat’s cheese, snails and locally raised beef are also popular staples.

Must-try local dishes

• Mouclade – Locally grown mussels cooked in white wine and covered with a creamy sauce
• Poitevin – A traditional herb paté typically made from cabbage, onions, spinach, eggs and pork, usually served with bread
• Le tourteau fromagé – a small variation of a pie with a blackened top and cake like texture, usually made with goats’ cheese, egg, flour and sugar

Get your tailor-made city break itinerary

Osprey Holidays can create a fabulous short break designed completely around your needs. We can arrange whatever you need, including:

• All travel and transfers on days of your choice 
• Accommodation from our handpicked range of hotels, to suit your budget and requirements

Our award-winning team can provide expert advice and recommendations, from general questions to tiny details. Contact us now for your tailor-made itinerary.