Although
this unspoilt part of south-west France is an ideal location
for relaxation, there are still plenty of local attractions
to be found for all the family.
A great day out can be enjoyed at the Vallée
des Singes (Valley of the Monkeys). Worth visiting
are the National
Zoodysee Park in the Forest of Chize,
Mouton Village and the
Chateau
des Enigmes . There is also a local goat farm
that specialises in rare breeds and small tours
can be organised with the owners. Kayak and
canoe trips are available locally on the picturesque
Boutonne and Charente rivers.
Futuroscope,
an exciting day out for older children, is situated near the
cultural and historic town of Poitiers. Puy
du Fou, the medieval theme park in the Vendee,
offers an entertaining day out.
A variety of sandy beaches can be found on the islands of Ré,
Oléron
and Aix,
and at the seaside resorts of Royan and Châtelaillon.
The ancient walled seaport at La
Rochelle has the largest marina on the Atlantic
coast, with many bars and restaurants, and a superb aquarium.
The Marais
Poitevin, a marshland area of great beauty, boasts
a labyrinth of waterways that can be explored by punt or canoe.
Visit the beautiful and historic towns of Saintes,
Jarnac,
and Cognac
on the River Charente, and the medieval town
of St.
Jean d'Angély, with its old cobbled streets
and a superb indoor swimming complex with slides (Atlantys).
Angouleme is a must for those with an artistic
flair as it is the centre for comics and cartoons. In September
it also hosts the
'Circuit des Ramparts' race, for motoring enthusiasts,
through the old hilly streets.
Sample the local wine and produce
for which the region is famous: Pineau des Charentes (a popular
chilled apéritif), the deliciously sweet Charentaise
melon, oysters and mussels from the Marennes Oleron, fois gras,
escargots and a variety of goats' cheeses.
Les Hiboux is the perfect spot from which to
explore the many family and historical attractions, or simply
enjoy the pleasures of walking, cycling and taking a picnic.
There is so much here for everyone.
Although
this unspoilt part of south-west France is an ideal location
for relaxation, there are still plenty of local attractions
to be found for all the family. 
Futuroscope