- self-guided hotel-to-hotel cycling, luggage transported
- varied discovery of inland and coastal scenery
- fascinating maritime history
- explore idyllic Île de Ré
- excellent seafood
The Charente Maritime coastline is synonymous with oysters, and long, sandy beaches which are largely deserted out of season, while inland, on either side of the River Charente, lies a fertile patchwork of sunflower fields and vineyards. This is a region of proud maritime traditions, once leading the way in shipbuilding, rope-making and exploration – it is here that Samuel de Champlain, discoverer of Québec, was born and raised.
For me, what makes this holiday special is the contrast in the scenery – before meeting the coast, you spend your first two days exploring the gently rolling fields of sunflowers and vines that lie inland. Add to this the chance to visit fascinating La Rochelle, and you have a very varied holiday.
Emily Bailey, Product Manager for France
Featuring bustling ports, salt marshes rich in birdlife, splendid churches and abbeys, and beautiful coastal scenery, this holiday is a varied discovery of western France, leading northwards from the deeply rural scenery on the edge of cognac country, via the historic town of Rochefort, a 17th-century military port, and along the coast to La Rochelle, the jewel of the region. The terrain is ideal for cycling, meaning you can cover considerable distances and still have time to relax on the sand, watch the sea birds or linger over a lunch of excellent local seafood.