Guide to Charente-Maritime & Property in Department 17

Explore the Charente Maritime & Properties in the Area

La Rochelle: The Heart of Charente-Maritime

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

Inviting and Popular Islands

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

Comparison of Charente and Provence

As a region, the Charente might be compared to Provence in terms of climate. However, the difference in property prices and cost of living here makes it a popular location for your holiday home to become your permanent residence.  With three airports offering 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, notable towns include Saintes, Saint-Jean-d’Angély, and Royan, all filled with coastal charm, historic sites, and interesting houses.

Saint-Jean-d’Angély: A Gem of a Town

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 townhouses 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.

Royan: A Touch of Luxury

Finally, Royan offers a touch of luxury; close to the coast yet also in the centre of town, the marina is home to large beaches and even larger boats. Stepping away from the beaches for just a moment, you will see that the seaside town boasts fascinating architectural houses spanning its history, as well as ancient monuments and churches worth discovering.

Key Information about the Charente-Maritime (17)

• Main City/Prefecture: La Rochelle
• Nearest Airport: La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport (in La Rochelle)
• Population: Around 650,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 6,864 sq. kilometres and 2,650 sq. miles
• Landmark: Fort Boyard, an iconic fortress located off the coast.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 8 million, lured by its islands (Ré and Oléron), Atlantic beaches and maritime heritage.

Types of Properties for Sale in Charente-Maritime

This region on the Atlantic coast features a diverse array of properties, from traditional stone Charentaise homes with colourful shutters to contemporary seaside villas. Buyers can select vineyard estates near Cognac, chic apartments in the pirate port of La Rochelle, and modern villas in sought-after coastal spots like Royan or Île de Ré. Luxury options such as châteaux, mansions and hôtels particuliers also enhance the market.

Common Property Styles in the Department

• Traditional Charentaises – Recognisable by their pale limestone walls, flat tile roofs, and colourful shutters, these homes are often in the countryside near peaceful villages.
• Modern and Contemporary Villas – Many villas are located in seaside areas like Royan or Île de Ré, featuring modern architecture, large windows, private pools, and elegant style.
• Mansions and Vineyard Estates – In Cognac wine country, properties often include a Maison de Maître with outbuildings like cellars, stables and barns.
• Apartments & Townhouses – La Rochelle offers a vibrant city life with apartments and elegant townhouses in the town centre.
• Prestige Properties – For luxury-seekers, the region offers grand residences like hôtels particuliers, châteaux, and high-end villas with spacious grounds and pools.

Property Prices in Charente-Maritime in 2025

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,538 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €4,538 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Price trends: 7% over the last 12 months, +63% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Charente-Maritime

• Average House Price in La Rochelle: €4,416 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Saintes: €2,070 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Rochefort: €2,248 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Royan: €3,206 per sq. metre

(source: Le Figaro - October 2025)

Reasons to Buy Property in Charente-Maritime

• Coastal Charm & Affordable Luxury: With its golden Atlantic beaches, historic islands (Ré, Oléron), sun-drenched vineyards, Charente-Maritime provides seaside villas, farmer cottages, and longères with land, often 20–30% cheaper than the Basque Coast or some coastal areas of Brittany.
• Strong Rental Income: Tourists visiting La Rochelle, Royan, and Île de Ré boost property yields to 6–9% annually, especially for beach holiday homes or renovated, often small, typical maisons de pêcheurs.
• Prime Location & Accessibility: La Rochelle Airport (1h to Paris), TGV to Bordeaux (2h), and easy access to Vendée make it ideal for second-home owners and weekend getaways to western France's sunniest coast.
• Mild Oceanic Climate: Warm summers (25–28°C) for sailing, oyster tasting, and beachcombing, and mild winters (8–12°C), perfect for outdoor living, seaside strolls and cycling along the Vélodyssée.
• Authentic Coastal Lifestyle: A maritime region famous for oyster festivals, pineau wine tastings, and historic ports. It combines salt-air living, seafood cuisine, and a relaxed community vibe.

 If you are looking to buy a property in this department, please browse our listings below, and get in touch to discuss your search criteria.