In an area so varied, there’s no shortage of towns worth exploring. Some earned their colours during the Vendée wars and many buildings of historical significance are still visible today.
La Rochelle – Instantly recognizable by the towers that guard the entrance to the port. Stroll around the harbour and the white houses that surround it, creating poetic reflections in the water. Then carry on under the arcades towards the town centre, soaking up the impressive architecture and constant bustle. La Rochelle is a hive of culture and home to the Francofolies music festival, just one example of its thriving cultural scene.
Ile de Ré – Of all the islands dotted along the coast here, the Ile de Ré is perhaps the most delightful. Cross the 3 km bridge to get there from the mainland and then set out to explore it by bike. Not only is cycling the easiest and most popular way to get around, it also provides access to every nook and cranny of this beautifully preserved spot which seems to have escaped the clutches of time. The island offers a welcome refuge for all types of migrating birds, with or without wings!
Les Sables-d’Olonne – A chic French beach resort that has managed to keep its authentic seaside identity intact. Partly due to the canvas huts which still line the beach as if to explain to modern-day tourists what a true seaside holiday is all about. But also due to its diverse terrains: beyond the sandy shores, there are marshes, dunes and pine groves just waiting to be discovered.
Rochefort – In 1666, the French politician Jean-Baptiste Colbert founded a maritime and military arsenal in Rochefort with the ambition of making it the biggest and best in the kingdom. Although the French Navy is no longer based here, the town’s architectural and cultural heritage remains intact. Rochefort has been granted the title of Ville d’Art et d’Histoire bestowed on towns of particular artistic and historical interest. Definitely worth a visit.
Saintes – History is alive and kicking in Saintes. Wander through the streets and survey the many remains on view; they range from Roman times to the 18th century, with some Middle Age relics thrown in for good measure. See the amphitheatre, the abbey, and the church (a UNESCO world heritage site), and stroll round the old town which is fully pedestrianized.
Ile d’Oléron – Another island but not just any island: it’s France’s second largest after Corsica. It’s so big that it even has two different climates: the southern end is reminiscent of the Mediterranean region with its palm trees and mimosa plants, while the northern tip is more akin to Brittany. There are rose creepers that climb as high as the houses, marshes that beckon you to cycle through them, and walks that are punctuated by speed bumps as if to remind visitors that life here is slow.
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Château Perle de Charente is a prestigious property for rent in France. This fairytale castle has its own special kind of magic. Towers and turrets on the outside give way to stylish sophistication on the inside, successfully combining stately grandeur with homely warmth. It is the perfect setting for an enchanting getaway that guests will remember for many years to come.
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Un Château Secret is a seaside luxury villa for rent in Charente-Maritime with a pool. This beautiful authentic property has been thoughtfully renovated and offers large either shared or private spaces indoors, a beautiful garden and a heated pool outdoors. Shops and restaurants are reachable on foot.
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Pure Vendée is a luxury rental with a swimming pool in the Vendée. It’s a former estate that has been superbly renovated with taste and sophistication. Here you will enjoy the benefits of the country and the luxury of the most modern fittings. Take time to completely relax in a luxurious and authentic setting. From the property you can travel around and discover the various famous tourist spots like Puy du Fou.
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Set in one of France's most beautiful villages, this elegant stone property on the Ile de Ré comprises two separate cottages set around a beautiful mature garden. Behind quaint shuttered walls, the interior has been tastefully refurbished with consideration to every detail. Six en-suite bedrooms ensure space and privacy for all guests while the pool area and beautiful thriving garden beckon you to enjoy gatherings and special times together.
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Domaine Terre et Mer is a family château for rent between Nantes and the sandy beaches of the Vendée region. It comprises a beautiful manor house and two annexe buildings for up to 20 guests. The heated swimming pool and huge secluded grounds provide the space and luxury for all your guests to relax in style. Escape to the château for an elegant French escapade!
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Entre Loire et Vendée is a country manor that is ideal for a big family holiday. This large holiday rental has a private swimming pool and lies between the Loire Valley and the Vendée in northwest France. With plenty of space indoor and huge grounds, it makes the perfect setting for a group get-together or a special occasion.
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Welcome to your ocean beach retreat, tucked away in a quiet spot on the fringe of a fragrant pine forest. This spacious family home on the Ile de Ré embraces nature and intuitive living. Enjoy the ease of lazy days by the heated pool surrounded by exotic-inspired plants, or step outside to follow a trail through the woods that leads straight to the sea. Five bedrooms, a well-appointed outdoor space and great views make this the perfect base for your holiday on the Ile de Ré.
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In the quiet streets on the north of the Ile de Ré, a short walk from the shops, the harbour and the sandy beaches, this remarkable 280 m² property is a haven of peace on the island. With six elegant en-suite bedrooms spread over two separate houses, it is perfect for groups of up to 12 guests. Enjoy a seaside break together without compromising on privacy or space.
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Escape to this welcoming 4-bedroom ile de Re holiday rentals beach house. In the heart of an authentic neighbourhood, this holiday villa in France on ile de Re, is perfect for a relaxing stay near the coast. With a bright, spacious interior and pleasant walled garden, it sleeps up to 8 adults and 4 children in four stylish double bedrooms and a dormitory for younger ones.
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Experience the essence of island living at this six-bedroom house just minutes from the beaches and the village. Inspired by the island's traditional architecture, this holiday villa on ile de Re features bright interiors, refined décor and carefully selected details in a serene and elegant atmosphere. Natural light and subtle touches of colour enhance the feeling of space, comfort and laid-back style. This seaside house is an elegant coastal retreat, perfect for a memorable getaway on the Ile de Ré.
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