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©agence les conteurs

The base camp for architecture lovers

You like its natural setting, its bright beach and its seaside decor? You will love the architecture of Châtelaillon! Both rich and varied, accessible and preserved, it radiates throughout the Charente-Maritime and becomes the departure point for beautiful escapes. The perfect base camp for an escapade in the rich heritage of the Charente Maritime.

Did you know? Architecture is the 1st of the 7 Arts, ahead of music, cinema or painting.

Step 1

Chatelaillon

The keystone

It’s decided, you’re going to Chatelaillon this fall. Very good choice, word of a local! This is the season of the most beautiful lights on the resort. It’s the perfect time to sublimate the rich architectural heritage of the place and to capture some beautiful moments. To get into the bath, we choose to rent a typical 19th century villa. Immersion guaranteed…

Dramatized visit

"Evariste's Beausejour

When:
Every Monday morning, July 11 through August 29 at 10 a.m.

Where:
Starting from the train station
By reservation at the Tourist Office

Fare:
11€/Adult – 4,50€/Junior (10 to 16 years old)

From 10 years old

Step 2

Villas of character

The starfish

You don’t know where to put your camera? We share with you a small selection of villas that are worth a look:

Step 3

Church of Châtelaillon-Plage

In full chorus

Once upon a time, there was an incredible metamorphosis: that of the Sainte-Madeleine church, a major building in Chatelaillon dating from the 19th century.

I work a lot with emotions. My painting is colorful, intuitive and emotional.

Amaury Dubois, artist from Lille
Step 4

Rochefort-sur-Mer

The city at any test

We leave our base camp (we will return there, promised) to go to Rochefort-sur-Mer to 25 km in the south of Chatelaillon. Course on the country of Fort Boyard!

Did you know that? You can reach Félindra, its tiger and Father Fourras by train. Practical and especially nicer for the environment!

On site, naval history and military architecture enthusiasts will be able to visit the Corderie Royale, a unique building in France. Want to take to the sea? Initiate yourself to the art of rope-making with the 3 workshops offered: spinning, committing or seamanship. Raise the anchor!

Freshwater sailors can learn while having fun with the discovery of the Hermione, the majestic frigate that bathes in the port, as well as the Accro’mat fun trail.

Step 5

Fortified city of Brouage

A visit that does not lack salt

History doesn’t wait in Charente-Maritime! Go to the fortified city of Brouage, 40 km away. Its name does not tell you anything? We give you 4 good reasons to remember it:

1. Brouage is a 16th century town fortified by Pierre de Conti d’Argencourt and then by Vauban. And for that alone, it’s worth the detour.

2.It is classified among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France.”

3.Brouage is also nicknamed “the City of Salt”, because it once formed a strategic crossroads for the salt trade in Charente-Maritime, a rare and expensive commodity.

4.The nine stained glass windows of its church are created by a Canadian: Nicolas Sollogoub!

Nicolas Sollogoub

Step n°6

Royan

The flashback

Finish your Charente escapade 60 km further, in the heart of Royan and its typical architecture of the 50s. Cradle of art and history, the seaside resort offers a charm quite different from that of Châtelaillon.

Walk along its cornice lined with beautiful villas, take a gourmet break at the market and enter its amazing church with its fifties atmosphere. You will find there magnificent stained glass windows dedicated to the setting sun.