Discover Saintonge
Saintonge, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cognac wine region, offers the ideal setting for a relaxing break in Charente-Maritime. Discover its rich culture, historic heritage and rolling countryside, with the town of Saintes as its capital.
Cultural and archaeological wealth of Saintes
Saintes, formerly Mediolanum Santonum, developed under the Roman Empire and still retains the vestiges of a prestigious city. Explore its Gallo-Roman heritage, Romanesque churches and religious buildings with carved capitals.
- Gallo-Roman remains: visit the amphitheater, the Arch of Germanicus and the Saint-Saloine baths, witnesses to the city’s former Roman glory.
- Religious buildings: Discover the magnificent Romanesque churches scattered throughout the region’s towns and villages.
- Chemin de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle: Follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims who made the Chemin de Compostelle, including the Pons Pilgrims’ Hospital, a World Heritage site.
Places to visit
Explore the architectural and natural treasures of Saintonge, from coastal fortifications and medieval castles to the iconic bridges of the Charente estuary.
- Fortifications du Littoral: Admire the imposing structures of Fort Boyard, Fort Louvois and the Citadelle du Château d’Oléron, witnesses to the region’s maritime history.
- Medieval castles: Explore the castles of Javarzay, Rochecourbon and Taillebourg, symbols of the rich history of the Saintonge region.
- Historic centers: Immerse yourself in history by visiting the historic centers of Saintes and Saint-Jean-d’Angély, steeped in medieval charm.
- Bridges on the Charente Estuary: Cross the estuary on the Tonnay-Charente suspension bridge or admire the Martrou transporter bridge near Rochefort.
Activities
Enjoy a wide range of activities, from guided tours of the Saintes national stud farm to peaceful gabare trips on the Charente river.
- Guided tours : Discover the Haras National de Saintes during fascinating guided tours.
- Tasting tours: Immerse yourself in the region’s world of wine with tasting tours of wine cellars and estates.
- Gabare cruises: Embark on themed cruises on the Charente aboard traditional wooden gabares, and let yourself be seduced by the river’s charms.
Saintonge invites you on a journey through the centuries, where each site tells a part of its history and reveals the beauty of its unspoilt landscapes.
FAQ - Everything you need to know about your trip to Saintonge
Saintonge is full of fascinating sites to discover, including the Gallo-Roman remains at Saintes, the fortifications along the coast, the medieval castles of Javarzay and Taillebourg, and the historic centers of Saintes and Saint-Jean-d'Angély.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including guided tours of the Saintes national stud farm, tasting tours of wine cellars and estates, and picturesque gabare trips on the Charente river.
The region is renowned for its Romanesque churches and religious buildings with carved capitals. Be sure to visit the architectural gems scattered throughout the towns and villages of Saintonge.
Saintonge is easily accessible by car from nearby major cities. Visitors can also arrive by train or plane, using the connections available to regional airports.
The region can be visited all year round, but the spring and summer months generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the sights and enjoying outdoor activities.
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