Guide to Charente-Maritime & Property 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, Île d'Oléron, and Île Madame. In addition to these charming islands, there are endless miles of sandy beaches and picturesque seaside towns. Although this area certainly attracts 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 Côte d’Azur without the Riviera prices. You are invited to soak up the sunshine and decide how to spend your days, as the Charente-Maritime offers the perfect lifestyle for relaxation enthusiasts and adventurers.  The seaside resorts, oyster beds of Marennes-Oléron and historical heritage all make the department a wonderful place to visit and make your home.

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 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 centre.

Inviting and Popular Islands

Today, locals and tourists come to La Rochelle to enjoy its lively atmosphere, Atlantic beaches and stunning offshore islands.  In recent years, the city has made visiting the popular island of Île de Ré even easier with a bridge connecting visitors 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, property prices and cost of living here are very different, making 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 you 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 some fascinating architectural houses spanning its history, as well as ancient monuments and churches that are worth discovering.

Key Information about Charente-Maritime

• 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.

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