Guide to Charente-Maritime & Properties in Department 17

Named after the Charente River on the southwestern coast of France, Charente-Maritime (number 17) is the second largest and the most populated department in its region. Part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, this department also includes the beautiful islands of Île de Ré, Île d'Aix, Ile d'Oléron, and Île Madame.  In addition to these charming islands are the endless miles of sandy beaches and pretty seaside towns and although this area certainly attracts the tourists it has not lost its French identity and spirit. Both locals and holidaymakers experience a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle, enjoying the atmosphere of the Cote d’Azur without the Riviera prices.  You are invited to soak up the sunshine and decide how you will spend your days as the Charente-Maritime offers the perfect lifestyle for the relaxation enthusiast and the adventurer.  The seaside resorts, oyster beds of Marennes-Oléron and historic heritage all make the department a wonderful place to visit and make your home.

The capital of Charente-Maritime is La Rochelle, fondly known as La Ville Blanche (the White City), the coast is beautifully lit as the sunlight hits the luminous limestone facades. Founded in the 10^th Century as a fishing village the town’s historic port has been beautifully preserved to display the magnificent range of boats and yachts that are moored here, as well as a seafront of trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants.  In the old town the 17^th and 18^th Century architecture really comes alive, once again La Rochelle has managed to carefully maintain and restore most of their many fine buildings enticing you to explore its streets as you shop and wander through the historic town center.

Today, the French locals and tourists come to La Rochelle to enjoy its lively atmosphere, Atlantic beaches and stunning off shore islands.  In recent the years the city has made visiting the popular island of Île de Ré even easier with a bridge connecting visitors to continue their adventure of Charente-Maritime.

As a region the Charente might be compared to Provence in terms of climate, however property prices and cost of living here are very different, making it a popular location for your holiday home to one day turn into your permanent residence.  With three airports that offer direct flights to fifteen cities throughout the UK, travelling to Charente-Maritime is easily accessible for long weekends, visiting family or summer holidays.  As you travel through the department the notable towns include, Saintes, Saint-Jean-d’Angély and Royan, filled with coastal charm, historic sites and interesting houses. 

The thriving tourist town of Saint-Jean-d’Angély has only around 8,000 inhabitants however, as it’s only an hour’s drive to the sea your daily life can be enjoyed on the cobbled streets all the way to the golden sands.  Nearby, and a little busier is Saintes where you can happily reside in renovated town houses or traditional French stone properties, your social life will never be dull either with a varied mix of cultural museums, a cathedral and lively shops, bars and restaurants. 

And finally Royan offers you a touch of luxury, close to the coast yet also in the center of town, the marina is home to large beaches and even larger boats!  Stepping away from the beaches for just a moment the seaside town has some fascinating architectural houses spanning its history and ancient monuments and churches for you to discover.

If you are looking for a property in Charente Maritime, please get in touch to discuss your criteria.