Things To Do

What’s On This Summer in Poitou–Charentes

Francofolies Music Festival 10 July to 14 July

This year La Rochelle is celebrating it’s 25^th year of the music festival called Francofolies.  The festival was created in 1984 by Jean-Louis Foulquier, and over the years has welcomed 122,000 spectators.  There are 5 different music stages in the heart of the town and Port to suit everyone, as well as street entertainment and dancing.  The atmosphere is fantastic and you can enjoy the music from the local cafes and restaurants from late morning through to the evening. This is a real night to remember, make sure you don’t miss it!

 For more information see website http://www.francofolies.fr/accueil/index.html                                                          

Bastille Day 14th July Celebrations in La Rochelle

Bastille day is celebrated all over France and is a National holiday to commemorate the end of the Monarchy in France.  It’s a day with a host of activities from food markets, live music, dancing and fireworks.  The best place is to head into the heart of La Rochelle and watch the fireworks late evening over the sea and port.  However the town centre is not accessible by car, so there are shuttle buses just outside the town, and can drop you off right in the centre, and they run frequently.

For more information see website www.larochelle-tourisme.com

Sailing Expeditions by Catamaran,
Fort Boyard, Ile de Ré, Ile de Aix, Ile d’Oleron

If you like sailing, then this is perfect for you, embark on board the Bluenote and Nosy be for sailing expeditions on a catamaran and sail along the beautiful sites of Ile de Ré.  Also on offer are full or half-day expeditions with a tour around Fort Boyard, Ile de Aix, and swimming with picnic near the beaches of Ile d’Oleron.  There are also themed expeditions from 14 July to 15 August where you can enjoy oyster tasting, firework displays, and sunset evenings. 

For more information please see website www.catamaran-bluenote.com

Tusson Medieval Gardens

Or if you prefer a quieter pace, then why not visit the Medieval gardens of Tusson.  Tusson is located near Cognac in the Charente, open throughout the summer, and you can walk through the 4 different gardens and enjoy the many different plants that are grown.  Then venture into the historical town if you have the energy to visit the Abbey. 

For more information see website http://www.visitcharente.com/what_to_see/gardens_galore