The base camp for lovers of architecture
Stage 1
Châtelaillon
The keystoneYou’ve decided to go to Châtelaillon this autumn. A very good choice, according to a local! It’s the season of the most beautiful lights in the resort. It’s the perfect time to sublimate the rich architectural heritage of the area and capture some beautiful moments. To get into the swing of things, we opt to rent a typical 19th century villa. Immersion guaranteed…
Stage 2
Villas with character
StarfishDon’t know where to put your camera? We’ve put together a small selection of villas that are well worth a look:
Villa Kristiania: the Nordic style
Scandinavian ambience for this house inspired by Norwegian villas. Purchased from a catalogue at the end of the 19th century and delivered in kit form by rail, it is striking for its original wooden architecture and chalet look.
Beauséjour: the prestigious
A former hotel built in the century of Flaubert and Zola, Beauséjour is now a hub for culture, leisure and art in Châtelaillon.
Pssst: Beauséjour has lots of great activities for children. Nurture your talent!
Villa Dunes Chatelaillon PlVilla des Dunes: the radiant
As you walk along the seafront, you come face to face with the most emblematic of Châtelaillonnais villas. Majestic, with its bright red colour, it is the perfect example of the “castel” type of residence.
Villa Oasis: the discreet one
Built in 1888, it is no mirage! Once intended as a holiday camp, it now offers exceptional accommodation with breathtaking ocean views.
Stage 3
Church of Châtelaillon-Plage
In full chorusOnce upon a time, there was an incredible metamorphosis: that of Sainte-Madeleine church, a 19th-century landmark in Châtelaillon.
Who’s responsible? Contemporary artist Amaury Dubois and his passion for curves and vibrant colours.
His tools? The art of sketching, an army of brushes and spray cans.
The result? A superb 600 m2 monumental fresco that blends architecture, spirituality and modernity. An experience that touches the heart.
I work a lot with emotions. My painting is colourful, intuitive and emotional.
Stage 4
Rochefort-sur-Mer
A city fit for any challengeWe’re leaving our base camp (we’ll be back, I promise) and heading for Rochefort-sur-Mer, 25 km south of Châtelaillon. We’re heading for Fort Boyard country!
Did you know that? You can reach Félindra, its tiger and Père Fourras by train. It’s practical and, above all, better for the environment!
Here, naval history and military architecture enthusiasts can take on the Corderie Royale, a building unique in France. Want to set sail? Try your hand at the art of rope-making in one of the 3 workshops on offer: spinning, commetting or seamanship. Weigh anchor!
Freshwater sailors can learn while having fun on the Accro’mat fun trail.
Stage 5
Fortified town of Brouage
A visit with a twistHistory doesn’t wait in Charente-Maritime! Just 40 km away is the fortified town of Brouage. Does the name ring a bell? Here are 4 good reasons why:
1. Brouage is a 16th-century town fortified by Pierre de Conti d’Argencourt and then by Vauban. For that alone, it’s well worth the diversions.
2It is listed as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”.
3Brouage is also known as the “City of Salt”, because it was once a strategic crossroads for the Charente-Maritime salt trade, a rare and expensive commodity.
4The nine stained glass windows in its church were created by a Canadian: Nicolas Sollogoub!
Nicolas Sollogoub
Stage 6
Royan
The flashbackFinish your Charente getaway 60 km further on, in the heart of Royan and its typical 1950s architecture. A cradle of art and history, this seaside resort offers a charm quite different from that of Châtelaillon.
Stroll along the corniche lined with beautiful villas, take a gourmet break at the market and enter the astonishing fifties-style church. You’ll find magnificent stained glass windows dedicated to the setting sun.
