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Home , Arvert, Charente, Gironde estuary, La Rochelle, La Tremblade, Saintonge

TRAVEL TO -MARITIME () WITH L’ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE May 25th to June 3rd, 2019 IN 2019! WHERE IS CHARENTE-MARITIME? CHARENTE-MARITIME The coast, partially swampy - poitevin swamp, swamp of Rochefort and Brouage- is animated by the oyster culture (Marennes), mussel breeding, summer tourism (, islands of Ré and Oléron), and fishing (); To the west: historic ports of La Rochelle and Rochefort; Ile de Rê, “Nantucket with a French accent”; Ile d’Oléron, second largest island of Metropolitan France, after ; Largest estuary in France; Medieval treasures, UNESCO Patrimoine, Roman architecture, biggest underground church in France. WHERE WILL YOU STAY Mathes/La Palmyre MATHES – LA PALMYRE

Located in the heart of the peninsula of : • 17 km from Royan • 40 km from Saintes and Rochefort • 75 km from La Rochelle • 110 km from Population of Mathes: 1,698 La Palmyre grew in the 1960s through tourism, becoming a renowned seaside resort and residential area. At the end of the estuary of the , sheltered in a cove formed by a peninsula that extends the tip of the Coubre, it offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a nautical activities (beaches, port) or activities related to its important forest estate. Its zoo, which is among the most visited in France, also contributed to its notoriety.

LA PALMYRE RESORT

EXCURSIONS CORDOUAN LIGHTHOUSE

Discover the seas and rocky lands of Cordouan and enjoy the sandbanks that surround the lighthouse at low tides. A lighthouse location since 1360, the current lighthouse was built in 1594. Dubbed “the king of the lighthouses and lighthouse of the kings,” the lighthouse was built for a king who would never stay there. Cordouan has been a listed monument since 1862. After a walk in shallow waters, you'll reach the lighthouse and visit the different rooms including the king's chamber and a chapel above the royal apartments. http://www.phare-de-cordouan.fr/architecture.html

CORDOUAN LIGHTHOUSE ROCHEFORT

Historic rival of La Rochelle, built by Colbert in the 17th century to be the greatest shipyard in France, producing over 300 sailing vessels per year. Go back in time to discover Rochefort’s Arsenal and its unique architecture still showing military influences and maritime heritage. Enjoy the endless perspective of the 'Corderie Royale’ (1670). Also famous for being the birthplace of the writer Pierre Loti (1850-1923) where you can visit his extravagant house, filled with lush souvenirs in an oriental décor.

ROCHEFORT – HARBOR AND CORDERIE ROYALE CORDERIE ROYALE

The Arsenal de Rochefort was a French naval base and dockyard in the town of Rochefort. Founded in 1665, it was closed in 1926. A visit to the ropery will first allow you to discover its history and its purpose for the Arsenal since its construction in 1666 by king Louis XIV thanks to an 18 minutes long immersive audiovisual performance. Following this, you’ll be able to discover both permanent and temporary exhibitions. L’HERMIONE

On March 10, 1780, the Hermione frigate, jewel of the Rochefort dockyard, left France. On board was the young and dashing Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La Fayette, on his way to announce the arrival of Rochambeau and offer the services of the Hermione to Congress in support of the Americans in the American War of Independence against Great Britain. This 213 ft historical ship has been meticulously recreated identically to the original for over 20 years by the Hermione La Fayette association with the financial support of many French and international agents. Embark on the replica of the famous frigate for a visit. The Hermione frigate started her sea worthiness trials in 2014 and made her maiden voyage to the United- States in 2015. You can visit the two decks, see the different exhibitions and workshops or embark on a guided tour with one of the crew member. SIP SOME AT ALEMBIC TO THE CHAI

Visit an authentic artisanal distillery at Pierrelonge and see its dating back to 1962. With a connoisseur of the region, learn the culture and the secrets of making cognac and “Pinot des ”, all while enjoying some yourself.

FLAVORS OF MARENNES- OLERON

Discover the salty marsh on the island of Oleron and learn the salt culture by observing the ancient techniques of salt merchants. Did you know Oleron was the second largest French island after Corsica? Dunes, pine forest, excellent beaches make it a very popular vacation resort. Back on mainland, meet with an oyster farmer who will show you their universe on the port of 'Ostreicole de ', followed by a some tasting at Marennes-Oleron.

SALT MARSHES LA ROCHELLE

A commercial and busy port since the 11th century; Old harbor surrounded by stately buildings; This harbor is now the biggest yachting center on France’s Atlantic Coast. On either side of its entrance are Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint- Nicolas. A huge chain used to be strung between them to ward off ships and attacks from the sea. Cobblestone streets; 15th century Tour de la lanterne – great view of the city; Musée du Nouveau Monde (emigration, commerce, and the slave trade are explained through old maps, paintings and artifacts).

LA ROCHELLE

Pictures by AF student Barb Landay

Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint-Nicolas

TALMONT, GIRONDE

Start the tour by visiting and learning the legends of the 65 million-year-old Matata caves. Along 1 mile, these caves, hollowed out by the movement of the estuary 65 million years ago, have always been inhabited by man. Come and discover them. In the , all along the cliffs of Meschers lived a colony of pirates and shipwreckers. It was a strategically ideal position because they could see the enemy arrive from a great distance. In one of the caves, you will discover what life was like in the 19th century in this region, called . You will see furniture, kitchen utensils, a collection of local antique crockery, traditional costumes and headdresses.

TALMONT, GIRONDE #2

Later, discover the limestone cliffs that were formed by sea water and turned into habitations. Alongside a tour guide, visit Talmont. Built in 1094, the tiny Romanesque church of St- Radegonde of Talmont is perched on a spit of land overlooking the Gironde. Talmont is filled with little white houses and, in the summer, colorful hollyhocks. Then enjoy some time to take in the views of the . To finish this beautiful afternoon, enjoy some Pineau tasting in a local vineyard.

TALMONT, GIRONDE LOCAL GASTRONOMY MIAM MIAM…

Oysters Sea food Salt – marais salant Cognac Goat cheese BON VOYAGE! Questions?