The department of Charente-Maritime occupies a scenic stretch of France's south-west coast. Its historical sites, sandy beaches and surprising amount of annual sunshine have made it one of France's vacationing hotspots in recent years. Its almost 500 kilometers of coastline provide endless water sport opportunities. It doesn't matter if you're into sailing, kite surfing or water skiing, you can find it all near your Charente-Maritime vacation rental. One day you could be splashing around in the sea, the next pulling up and shucking oysters at the local beds in Marennes-Oleron and the following one ambling around a Romanesque church.
When you stay at the Charente-Maritime vacation rental, you'll have one of France's most beloved zoos right on your doorstep. The 50-year-old La Palmyre Zoo spans 18 hectares and houses more than 1,600 critters. For more wildlife, swing by the Aquarium de La Rochelle where you can get face-to-face with many creatures of the deep, including sharks, jellyfish and shoals of piranhas. Those with an interest in botany shouldn't skip the Jardins du Monde in Royan. Other than the beautiful manicured gardens packed with tropical flora and bonsai trees, you can admire the country's largest orchid greenhouse.
You don't need to worry about what you are going to do when you stay at a Charente-Maritime vacation rental. Its position along the Atlantic Ocean means many outdoor activities are centered around the sea. You can take your pick from windsurfing, kayaking or sailing and if you don't know how, you can always take lessons. Landlubbers won't miss out. Jogging along the coastal trails is popular, as is cycling through the parks. Alternatively, find a sunny spot along the shoreline and cast in your line or saddle up for a day on the equestrian trails.
Being located along the French coastline, it will come as no surprise that the biggest influx of travelers is during the summer. Between June and August, Charente-Maritime vacation rentals get booked up by families looking for a beach break and to escape the stuffy cities. If you plan to visit during the warmer months, try to score a rental early. With some luck, the shoulder seasons can have a very agreeable climate and with rental prices taking a nosedive and far fewer people on the beaches and hiking trails, it can be just the ticket if you're looking for a bargain getaway.
The marshlands, rivers and woodland of the Marais-Poitevin provide a habitat for lots of wildlife. There is birdlife here aplenty, including magnificent herons which paddle in the shallows in search of fish before taking off and skimming just above the water's surface. Along the rivers and streams you will hear the croaking of frogs and the sound of crickets. The scenic waterways, with overhanging weeping willows, are best seen from one of the wooden boats called "barques" that ply the rivers. When you stay in a Charente-Maritime vacation rental, the nearby reserve in Saint-Denis-du-Payre is another good introduction to the flora and fauna.
Whether you're planning your next exciting adventure with friends or a romantic trip with your loved one, one of these top vacation rentals in Charente-Maritime is sure to entice you:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Charente-Maritime vacation rental for you.
Nothing beats getting behind the wheel and heading to somewhere new. When you're ready to get away from it all for a day or two, take a look at these popular weekend getaways in Charente-Maritime:
Usually conveniently located and at a price that's easy on the wallet, studio apartments offer style and privacy with the comforts of home. Book one of these studio apartments for rent in Charente-Maritime and use it as a base to explore:
Yes, so forget about bunking down in a soulless hotel or paying to sleep in someone's extra room. Book one of our short-term rentals in Charente-Maritime and live it up in a place that's all your own. Here are a few options to consider:
Whether you've been an item for a couple of months, a year or an eternity, nothing beats a romantic weekend getaway to stoke passions. If you're looking for somewhere dreamy to spend a few days with your significant other, consider these escapes:
Forget waiting in line at the hotel breakfast buffet or fighting for a chaise lounge around the pool during your vacation. Rally your favorite people and seriously upgrade your getaway by booking one of these mansions for rent in Charente-Maritime:
If you're thinking about taking that special trip away, don't go alone; bring the whole gang. You'll have more fun sharing the experience with friends and family. These vacation rentals in Charente-Maritime are perfect for large groups:
Whether you're organizing a stay with family and friends, a big engagement party or even a wedding, we'll help you find a space to fit your whole gang. Gather your best buddies and look at these large vacation rentals in Charente-Maritime:
Get ready to take your pick and cannonball right in. Here are a few top-notch house rentals in Charente-Maritime where memories are made at the pool:
The first step to any memorable family getaway is finding the perfect place to stay. If you're looking for a home away from home with enough room for everyone, one of Vrbo's large family vacation rentals in Charente-Maritime will be just the ticket:
Get out for the day and head to Palmyre Zoo — one of Charente-Maritime's foremost family-friendly attractions. Les Antilles de Jonzac and L'Asinerie du Baudet du Poitou are also worth visiting while you're in the area.