Heritage side

Heritage and architecture in Charente-Maritime: a territory rich in history

Discover the exceptional heritage of Charente-Maritime

Between the Atlantic Ocean, fortified cities, charming villages and maritime heritage, Charente-Maritime appeals to travelers in search of authenticity.

From Saint-Nazaire-sur-Charente and Rochefort, numerous historical sites are accessible in just a few minutes. Whether you are passionate about history, architecture, or simply curious to discover the region, the area offers a remarkable diversity of visits.

To plan your stay, also check out our Activities around Rochefort page which includes many ideas for outings and discoveries.

Rochefort and La Rochelle: two iconic cities

Rochefort, capital of maritime heritage

A city of art and history, Rochefort is inextricably linked to its naval past.

Discover in particular:

• The Arsenal of the Seas
• The Royal Rope Factory
• The Hermione
• The National Maritime Museum
• The Transporter Bridge

Rochefort is today one of the major cultural destinations in Charente-Maritime.

La Rochelle and its old port

Located less than an hour from our accommodations, La Rochelle attracts thousands of visitors every year thanks to:

• Its old port
• Its famous medieval towers
• Its arcaded streets
• Its historic houses
• Its exceptional maritime heritage

The most beautiful villages of Charente-Maritime

Ars-en-Ré and La Flotte

Among the most beautiful villages on the Île de Ré, Ars-en-Ré and La Flotte charm with their flowery alleyways, their markets and their white houses with colorful shutters.

Brouage, fortified city

Brouage, a former strategic port that became a fortified village, offers a unique immersion into the history of the region.

Its ramparts, monumental gates and cobbled streets make it one of the must-see sites of Charente's heritage.

Mornac-sur-Seudre

Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Mornac-sur-Seudre charms with its port, its artisan workshops and its authentic atmosphere.

Talmont-sur-Gironde

Perched on its rocky promontory, Talmont-sur-Gironde offers exceptional views of the Gironde estuary and is among the most photographed villages in the region.

Castles, churches and remarkable monuments

Charente-Maritime also has a rich religious and architectural heritage.

Among the must-see sites:

• The Romanesque church of Saint-Savinien
• The Château de la Roche Courbon
• The many Romanesque churches in the area
• Coastal fortifications inherited from French maritime history

A heritage at the heart of unspoiled landscapes

The heritage of the Charente region is integrated into a remarkable natural environment:

• Coastal marshes
• The Charente estuary
• Ocean beaches
• Nature reserves
• The Charente islands

This wealth of resources makes it easy to combine cultural visits, nature walks and outdoor activities.

Also check out our page dedicated to Our Islands to plan your excursions to Île d'Aix, Île Madame, Île d'Oléron or Île de Ré.

🔍 A closer look at some of the territory's treasures

Lupin's Royal Fountain and Fort Lupin

The Royal Fountain of Lupin , located in Saint-Nazaire-sur-Charente, is closely linked to the maritime history of Rochefort.

Nearby, Fort Lupin once protected access to the Royal Arsenal. Today, the site offers a pleasant walk combining military heritage and natural landscapes.

The Rochefort Transporter Bridge

The Martrou Transporter Bridge is one of the last transporter bridges still in operation in the world.

Its gondola allows you to cross the Charente while enjoying an exceptional panorama of the river and the surrounding marshes.

The Tonnay-Charente suspension bridge

The Tonnay-Charente suspension bridge is a remarkable example of 19th-century French industrial heritage.

Now reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, it offers a pleasant walk above the Charente.

Where to stay to discover the heritage of Charente-Maritime?

Our accommodations provide an ideal starting point for visiting all the tourist sites in the area.

Studio Ré

Studio Ré is perfectly suited for couples, solo travellers and professionals wishing to discover Rochefort and its surroundings.

Apartment Aix

Appart Aix offers more space for multi-day stays, couples and spa guests.

Villa Oléron

Villa Oléron accommodates up to 6 travelers and is perfectly suited for families and groups of friends.

Complete your exploration of the region

Take advantage of your stay to also discover:

• The Charente islands
• The Flow Vélo and the Vélodyssée
• Festivals and events
• The Rochefort Thermal Baths and Well-being

Prepare for your stay

Check our availability and book your accommodation directly online.

Before you book, also consider checking out our special offers .

For any questions, please consult our FAQ or contact us .

Plan your stay between Rochefort, the islands and the ocean

Find all the useful information to organize your holiday, your spa treatment, your business trip or your getaway in Charente-Maritime.

🏡 Accommodations Between Wings & Islands

• Welcome
• All our accommodations
• Studio Ré • 2 people
• Apartment in Aix • Sleeps 4
• Villa Oléron • 6 people

📅 Book your stay

• Online booking
• Special offers
• Contact
• Frequently Asked Questions

💆 Spa treatments and extended stays

• Thermal spa treatment in Rochefort

🌊 Discover Charente-Maritime

• Around our home
• Our islands
• The time it takes for a stroll
• Between culture and leisure
• Everything is beautiful on a bike

🎉 Calendar and outings

• Festivals and concerts
• Markets, fairs, flea markets and garage sales

📍 Must-sees around our rentals

• Rochefort and the Royal Rope Factory
• Port-des-Barques and Île Madame
• Île d'Aix and Fort Boyard
• Île d'Oléron
• Île de Ré
• Fouras-les-Bains
• Brouage
• Châtelaillon-Plage
• Royan and La Palmyre
• La Rochelle

Our accommodations are ideally located in Saint-Nazaire-sur-Charente, in the heart of the Rochefort Océan destination, between beaches, heritage, nature, thermal baths and leisure activities.