Category: Touring France

Melle, Deux Sevres France Geography and Transport Links

Melle is a small town (commune area 9.76km²) southeast of Niort in the Deux Sevres department of Poitou Charentes.  It is by-passed by the D948 which links to Niort and Civray (and the RN10).  The A10 Motorway can be reached towards Niort, and carries traffic between Saintes (97km) and Poitiers (59km).  The nearest commercial airport is Poitiers Biard (58km) for seasonal services to the UK, and Angouleme-Cognac airport presents another option at 61km away.  The La Beronne River passes the town to the west.

Melle, Deux Sevres France Climate

The weather here is driven by the Atlantic Ocean and is therefore temperate year-round.  Average summer temperatures are 24C to 27C (13C to 15C low), and in winter this drops to 9C to 10C (3C to 4C low).  Wettest months are Oct, Nov, and Dec (94mm), whilst June is the driest month with 39mm.  Melle is within an area that receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Tourism In Melle, Deux Sevres France

Melle is a medieval town with a number of important and ancient buildings and is home to the oldest silver mine in Europe.  Les Mines d’Argent de Rois Francs was for a time used as the French Mint and was active between 602 and 995AD.  This is the biggest tourist draw in the town and offers a museum and guided tours.  The town has a notable architecture in its three Romanesque style churches, Saint Pierre, Saint Savinien, and St Hilaire.  Saint Hilaire is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as part of the Routes to Santiago de Compostella.

The Arboretum is a 6km walk (Chemin de la Decouverte) lined with around 1000 species of trees, and 100 species of roses and the Carolingian Garden next to the silver mine is a botanical garden with over 100 forgotten plants.  In a joint project with Celles Sur Belle, the town converted an old railway into a pathway between the two towns.  The Chemin Blanc is a 9km picturesque trail for walking or cycling.  Every year the town hosts Le Concours-Exposition d’Avril, an art competition held during the month of April, with art and craft sales.  In July, there is a Jazz Festival offering free concerts and events.

Facilities In Melle, Deux Sevres France

The town has plenty of commerce on offer, from boutiques and shops to larger supermarkets and other enterprises.  There are a Cinema and Media Center, indoor and outdoor swimming facilities, a tennis center and a variety of sports halls that cater to the numerous clubs and associations around the town.  Melle offers municipal camping and caters for motor homes.  There is also a music school sited in the town.

Melle, Deux Sevres France Economy

Melle is part of the Sud Deux Sevres economic zone, which has an unemployment rate of 7.1%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In Melle, Deux Sevres France

There are 2 state nurseries (plus 1 private), 2 state primary schools (plus 1 private) and 1 secondary school (plus 1 private).  There is a college (lycee), and 2 agricultural colleges.

Melle, Deux Sevres France Key Stats

Most of the properties in Melle are main residences 90.9%, and 4.1% of properties are classed as second homes.  There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (29.9% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (25.4% vs 18.2%).  21.6% of the local population is under 19.  There are fewer females than males resident here (47.4% vs 52.6%).

 

Key Facilities and Services In Melle, Deux Sevres France

Supermarkets	Hairdressers	Post Office
Bakers	Banks	Swimming Pool
Cafe	Pharmacies	Dentists
Restaurants	Library	Doctors
Cinema	Butcher	DIY Store

Montmorillon, Vienne, France

Montmorillon, Vienne, France Geography and Transport Links

Montmorillon is a Medieval town situated in the South-Eastern corner of the Vienne Department (commune area 57km²), close to the borders with Haute Vienne (Limousin) and Indre (Centre), at an altitude from 82m to 168m.  It is close to the RN147 that runs between the Regional Capital Poitiers and Limoges.  There is a regional rail link here, and further services (such as the TGV) can be reached through Poitiers Gare (45mins).  The picturesque Gartempe River runs through the town.  The nearest commercial airport is at Poitiers Biard (60km) with seasonal flights to the UK.  Limoges Bellegarde airport is also an option (82km) with a wider range of year-round services.
See also: Lathus-St Remy

Montmorillon, Vienne, France Climate

The weather here is maritime, and therefore temperate with clearly defined seasons.  Average Summer temperatures are between 23C to 26C (11C-13C night), and in Winter this drops to 8C to 9C (2C night).  As with much of Poitou Charentes, the Autumn can be warm, with average temperatures in Sept of 22C and Oct 17C.  However, October and November are usually the wettest months.  Montmorillon is within an area that receives between 1750 and 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Tourism In Montmorillon, Vienne, France

Known as the Cite de l’Ecrit [City of Writing], Montmorillon prides itself as a ‘book town’ and hosts a bi-annual Selon du Livre [Book Festival].  The old Brouard quarter of the town was restored in 2000, and the medieval buildings let out to booksellers, craftsmen, artists and experts in ancient books.  A key historical site to visit is La Maison Dieu, an 11^th Century Hospital Monastery including  Chapelle Saint-Laurent and L’Octagone the 12^th Century funerary crypt.  Nearby at Lathus, the Centre du Plein Air offers fishing, kayaking, horse riding, and orienteering.  Also close by is the L’Isle aux Serpents [Snakes Island], the Val de Vienne racing circuit.  The town is home to the macaroon biscuit [with almonds), and there are a museum and shop dedicated to the subject at the Rannou-Metivier House.   There is a huge market at nearby Les Herolles on the 29^th of each month.

Montmorillon, Vienne, France Economy

Montmorillon is part of the Montmorillon economic zone, which has an unemployment rate of 6.7%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).  The biggest businesses in Montmorillon are SUVIGA (Hyper U supermarkets) and COVIMO (abbatoir).

Montmorillon, Vienne, France Facilities

The town has an indoor swimming pool, and other facilities include tennis and gymnastics.  The local football club (UESM) has teams for all ages (6+ to Veterans).  Not far away at Lathus is a large equestrian center, and at Civaux is an aquatic center.  There are over 10 restaurants in the town and a Cinema (La Majestic).  The town has 2 libraries, 4 pharmacies and a choice of over 9 Doctors.

Education In Montmorillon, Vienne, France

There is a choice of 3 state Nursery/Primary schools, 1 state High School (College), and 1 state College (Lycee).  In addition, there is a private option up to High School age, through the Catholic Institution Saint-Martial.  There are a number of options at the Lycée level, with a number of professional (such as agricultural) colleges available.

Montmorillon, Vienne, France Key Stats

84.1% of properties here are classed as primary residences, with 4.4% classed as second homes.  There are more females than males resident here (52.9%), and there are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (28.7% vs 21.3%).  There are more retired people here than against the national average (24.9% vs 18.2%).  22.4% of the population is below the age of 19.

 

Key Facilities and Services In Montmorillon, Vienne, France

Supermarkets	Hairdressers	DIY Store
Bakers	Banks	Swimming Pool
Butchers	Pharmacies	Dentists
Bar/Tabacs	Library	Doctors
Restaurants	Post office	Cinema
Cafes

Lathus Saint Remy Geography and Transport

Lathus Saint Remy is a village (commune area 98.28km²) located in the southeastern corner of the Vienne department (altitude 94m to 228m), not far from the border with Indre (Centre) and Haute Vienne (Limousin).  The village is not located on a major route, and the nearest is the N147 which passes to the west carrying traffic between Poitiers (63km) and Limoges (87km).

The village has a TER regional rail link, that connects with Montmorillon and the major station of Poitiers Gare, where there is a TGV connection.  The nearest commercial airport is Limoges Bellegarde (70km), offering year-round flights to the UK, but Poitiers Biard is also an option at 72km.  Lathus Saint Remy is close to the Gartempe River.

Weather In Lathus Saint Remy

The climate here is maritime, and therefore temperate with clearly defined seasons.  Average Summer temperatures are between 23C to 26C (11C-13C night), and in Winter this drops to 8C to 9C (2C night).  As with much of Poitou Charentes, the Autumn can be warm, with average temperatures in Sept of 22C and Oct 17C.  However, October and November are usually the wettest months.  Lathus Saint Remy is within an area that receives between 1750 and 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Tourism In Lathus Saint Remy

Lathus Saint Remy is home to the Centre de Plein Air, run by a non-profit organization.  The center has a huge range of outdoor activities available across a range of sites around the area.

Les Portes d’Enfer is a climbing facility set in a protected environment which is also home to rare and protected species of plants.  There are canoeing and kayaking on the River Gartempe, and nearby is the centers teaching farm, which focuses on the breeding of local breeds of goats, donkeys, etc.

The center takes in a riding school, a large lake for water sports and sailing, and offers activities as diverse as orienteering, caving, archery and mountain biking, and there is also a circus school sited here.  The center offers residential visits to children of all ages, and there is a camping facility located close to the farm.  One of the departments fishing schools is also based here.

Lathus Saint Remy Facilities

Lathus has basic shopping facilities, and for larger supermarkets, the nearest is at Montmorillon 15km away.

Lathus Saint Remy Economy

Lathus is part of the Montmorillon economic zone which has an unemployment rate of 6.7%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In Lathus Saint Remy

There is a state nursery and primary school in Lathus Saint Remy.  The nearest secondary school (College) and college (Lycee) are in Montmorillon (15km).

Lathus Saint Remy Key Stats

73.5% of properties here are classed as primary residences, with 18.3% classed as second homes.  There are more females than males resident here (50.2% vs 49.8%). There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (38.2% vs 21.3%), and there are more retired people here also (29.6% vs 18.2%).  17.3% of the population is below the age of 19.

 

Key Facilities and Services In Lathus Saint Remy

General Store	Hairdresser	Post Office
Bakers	Bank	Library
Tabac	Pharmacy	Hardware Store
Restaurant	Doctor

Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re, Charente Maritime

Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re Geography and Transport

Le Bois-Plage-en-Re is a small seaside town located on the southern side of the Ile de Re, off the Atlantic coast of La Rochelle.  The commune covers an area of 12.18km².  The town sits on the D201 that heads west towards La Couarde Sur Mer.

The island is accessible via a 3km toll bridge (cost from 9 euro to 16.50 return) from La Rochelle, and there are motorways towards Niort (N11) and Rochefort (N137).  Ile de Re can still be reached by boat, with the company Inter-Iles from the old port in La Rochelle, and also from a new facility (2008) at La Tranche Sur Mer (Vendee).  Timetables can vary in both days and times of travel depending on the season.

There is no rail link from the island, but La Rochelle does provide access to both regional rail (TER) and the TGV, which links with Paris (Montparnasse) in a shade over 3 hours.  The nearest airport is La Rochelle, and this offers flights to a variety of UK destinations with the major budget carriers.

Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re Climate

The climate here is mild courtesy of the position of the village on the Atlantic coast.  This has the effect of keeping summer temperatures warm (but not excessively hot) whilst keeping winters mild.  Average summer temperatures are between 22C and 24C (14C to 17C night), and in winter this drops to 9C to 10C (4C to 5C night).

Spring and Autumn can be warm with May averaging 19C (12C), and September 22C (14C).  Wettest months are Oct and Nov with 65mm and 62mm respectively, and the driest months are June and Aug with 24mm and 29mm respectively.  This part of Charente Maritime receives over 2000 hours of sunshine annually.

Tourism And Camping In Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re

There are a number of beaches to choose from along the 5km of coastline here, with conditions ideal for water sports.  The beaches are gently shelving and bordered by pine forests, and two of them are manned by lifeguards in the peak season.

On offer are swimming, windsurfing, surfing, cycle tracks, and fishing.  For local produce, the local winemakers cooperative offers tasting and sales of cognacs, and sparkling and still wines produced on the island.  Also on offer at the Cooperative Maraichere are the local potatoes (Appellation Origin Controlee – AOC), available during May and June.

Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re Facilities

There is a daily market during summer (9am to 1pm) and out of season, this is restricted to Wed, Thu, Sat, and Sun.  This is said to be the biggest market on the island.  There is municipal camping here, and other local facilities and clubs include the Islands handball and tennis clubs, and there are other sports available such as badminton, boxing, dance, football, gymnastics, and volleyball.

Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re Economy

The biggest business in Le Bois Plage is SDRM who sell plumbing and heating equipment.  However, local produce, commerce, and construction constitute the biggest part of the economy. The town is part of the La Rochelle economic zone which has an unemployment rate of 9.8%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re

There is one state nursery school and primary school in Le Bois Plage.  The nearest secondary school is at St Martin de Re (4 km).  For colleges (Lycee) level there are options at La Rochelle.

Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re – Key Stats

Just 41% of homes here are main homes, with 53.7% of properties are classed as second homes. There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (29.9% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (27.4% vs 18.2%).  21.5% of the local population is under 19 years of age.  There are fewer males than females resident here (48.9% vs 51.1%).  Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit the Ile de Re during peak times, but the population of the whole island is normally around 16,500.

 

Key Facilities and Services In Le Bois Plage en Re, Ile de Re

Supermarket	Post Office	Library
Baker	Hairdresser	Cafe
Butcher	Bank	Dentist
Bar/Tabac	Pharmacy	Doctor
Restaurant

La Rochelle France Geography and Transport

La Rochelle is the capital city of the Charente Maritime, located in the northwestern corner of the department.  The commune covers an area of 28.43km2.  By road, access is good with the N137 motorway connecting the city with Rochefort, and the N11 taking traffic north east towards Niort and beyond.  The city has a thriving airport, offering routes to a number of UK destinations, with a variety of different budget airlines.  The TGV is built in the area (Aytre), and so it’s no surprise that the city has a TGV connection which can have you in Paris in just over 3 hours.  La Rochelle is a port town, and there are boat services to the islands of Re, Oleron, and Aix from the old port.  Commercial and fishing activities are run from the port at La Pallice.  There is also a huge yachting marina situates at Les Minimes.

La Rochelle France Weather

The climate here is driven by the gulf stream, and therefore summers are warm (but not excessively hot) and winters are temperate.  Average summer temperatures are between 22C to 25C (14C to 17C night), and that drops to 9C to 10C in winter (4C to 5C night).  Wettest months here are October and November (62-65mm) and the driest June and August with 24mm and 29mm respectively. Late spring and early autumn can also be warm.  La Rochelle is within an area that receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Tourism In France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime

La Rochelle originally existed as a village of farmers and salt-makers but became a port during the 12^th century.  The phrase ‘La Rochelle, Belle at Rebelle’ (a beauty and a rebel) refers to its conversion to Protestantism at a time when the whole of France was Catholic.  Cardinal Richelieu and Louis XIII famously laid siege to the town in 1627/8 for 14 months, with 22,000 from a population of 27,000 dying from starvation and disease.  The port became a departure point for Canada (Nouvelle France), and also played its part in the slave trade.  During WW2, La Rochelle was a German stronghold and was home to a submarine naval base (at La Pallice).

France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime

La Rochelle is the third most visited city in France, with an estimated 3m visitors a year.  The fortified harbor of the Vieux Port offers a variety of restaurants and cafes and is surrounded by handsome 18th-century streets.  There are beaches nearby at Plage de la Concurrence and Plage des Minimes, and a little further away is the large beach at Chatelaillon Plage.  The beaches on the Ile de Re are also easily accessible via a 3km road bridge.

• La Rochelle Aquarium

Les Minimes is the largest marina in Europe (for pleasure boats), and close to here is the famous (and large) aquarium, featuring a 1.5m liter shark tank.

Region La Rochelle

Courtesy of some brave decisions in the 1970s, the town is now largely traffic free, being at the vanguard of green transport.  The Velos Jaunes (yellow bikes) are provided by the town and can be used free of charge for up to 2 hours.

A popular attraction is the Musee Automate and the Musee Models Reduite which are situated beside each other on La Rue Desiree.  Here you can view around 300 robots, a model naval battle, and a moving model railway.

As you’d expect, there are many events and spectacles throughout the year here.  The largest and most famous is the Francofolies, which is a music festival and celebration of French music and songs.  Concerts are held at various venues across the city for 6 days during July.

Also during July (14^th) is Bastille Day, with food markets, live music, and after dark, there are fireworks at the old port.  Grand Pavois is an international nautical exhibition held at the Salon Nautique in the Port des Minimes every September, with over 600 exhibitors.

October hosts ‘Jazz between the two towers’, a vibrant jazz festival covering 30 venues and 120 musicians over 9 days.  In November, the La Rochelle Marathon takes place, with 5000 competitors this is the most important marathon after Paris and Medoc.  In May, ‘Cavalcade’ is 2 days of fanfare, parades, and music in the streets, with the highlight being a night parade with floats.

France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime Facilities

La Rochelle has a huge variety of shops and restaurants, including a two Michelin-starred restaurant Richard and Christopher Coutanceau, at the Plage de la Concurrence.  The key sports in the city are Rugby and Sailing.  The local Rugby team Atlantique Stade Rochelaise plays in the 2^nd tier of French rugby, Pro division 2.

France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime Economy

Whilst Alstom down at Aytre is a big employer here, key enterprises in the town are JCMI (Car Dealers), Rhodia (Chemical Group), LARA (Peugeot Dealers) and Delphi (fuel injection systems).  Also present is Dufour Yachts (manufacture of pleasure craft).   La Rochelle is part of the economic zone with the same name which has an unemployment rate of 9.8%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime

There are 23 state nurseries (plus 1 Private), 22 state primary schools (plus 1 private) and 6 secondary schools (plus 2 private).  There is a choice of 10 colleges (plus 2 Private) and a University.

France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime Key Stats

Most of the properties in La Rochelle are main residences 87.2%, and 5.9% of properties are classed as second homes.  There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (24.1% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (20.5% vs 18.2%).  21.2% of the local population are under 19 years of age.  There are fewer males than females resident here (46.6% vs 53.4%).

 

Key Facilities and Services In France La Rochelle, Charente Maritime

Supermarkets	Post Office	DIY Stores
Bakers	Hairdressers	Swimming Pool
Butchers	Banks	Dentists
Bar/Tabacs	Pharmacies	Doctors
Restaurants	Libraries	Cinema
Cafes	Discos	Casino

Aquarium de La Rochelle Description:

Located at the heart of the town and inaugurated in 2001. Come for a two-hour journey into the deep seas. Encounter some 10000 creatures from the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Tropics…in 3 million liters of seawater. Free exhibitions in the entrance hall and activities for children during school holidays. Certified “Tourisme et Handicap”.

Restaurant with panoramic view on the second floor. New tanks and new scents: a new rich aquarium! Discover the mangrove, a swamp typical of coastlines in tropical areas and a habitat for flora and fauna: the touloulous (a kind of crab) hide in the rocks and under the red mangroves…Now before the shark tank, an aquarium is dedicated to coral reproduction.

End the tour in the tropical greenhouse for a walk along the scented trail: Benjamin, vanilla plant and cinnamon tree. And for children, the brochure contains lots of riddles to solve during the visit!

The Aquarium de La Rochelle is open every day of the year:

– October to March: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm

– April to June and September: 9:00 am to 8:00 pm

– July and August: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm

Aquarium de La Rochelle Tariffs:

Regular visit

Adult: 13 €
• 3 to 17 years (and students with student card): 10 €
• Under 3 years: free

Narrated visit (with audio guide)
• Adult: 16,50 €
• 3 to 17 years: 13,50 €

Audio guides are very simple to use and work at your own pace. Full of fascinating facts and strange stories about the marine creatures you meet, audio guides are suited to all ages. Available in French, English, German and Spanish.

Aquarium de La Rochelle France Address

Quai Louis Prunier –
BP4 – 17002 La Rochelle CEDEX 1
Tel: 05 46 34 00 00 – Fax: 05 46 45 35 71

Galerie Rochelaise Address:

36, Quai Duperré

Phone : 05 46 41 61 50 – Fax : 05 46 07 73 07

Galerie Rochelaise DAYS AND OPENING HOURS

1^st June to 30^th September

10am – 12 noon

2pm to 5pm

VISIT IS FREE OF CHARGE.

La Tremblade Geography and Transport

La Tremblade is a small town situated on the southern side of the Seudre Estuary, opposite the town of Marennes.  The commune covers an area of 69.13km² The D728E takes you over the bridge to Marennes, or the other main access route is on the D14 via Saujon.  The D25 works its way around the Arvert Peninsula past Ronce Les Bains and along the Cote Sauvage.  The nearest rail link is at Saujon for the TER regional network, and the nearest commercial airport offering flights to the UK is at La Rochelle (71km).

 Weather in La Tremblade

The maritime climate here keeps winters mild and summers warm (but not too hot) and is within an area that receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.  Average daytime summer temperatures here are a few degrees cooler than neighboring Royan, with 20C to 23C (15C to 17C night).  Winter daytime temperatures are 9C to 10C (6C to 7C night).  The wettest month is November (62mm), and March and May to August are the driest months with between 23mm and 29mm.  September is normally warmer than June, with 21C daytime, and 16C night.

Tourism In La Tremblade France, Charente Maritime

The Arvert Peninsula on which La Tremblade is located has around 6000ha of pine forest and 30km of beaches.    The sheltered beaches along past Ronce les Bains (4km) are good for families with young children, as the estuary waters and gently sloping beaches make it safe bathing.  La Coquille Filante is a small train (on the road) that ferries tourists between La Tremblade and Ronce les Bains during the summer season, and there you will find a Base Nautique that offers sailing, catamarans, windsurfing, pedalos and kayaks.  There is a Maritime Museum in La Tremblade that opens in July and August, offering an insight into history and techniques of oyster farming.

La Tremblade France, Charente Maritime

Around the corner from La Tremblade is the Atlantic-facing Cote Sauvage, with over 20km of dune and forest backed surfing beaches, including 3 nudist zones.  There is a 35km stretch of cycle path along an old disused tramway, from La Tremblade to St Palais Sur Mer.  The Atlantic swell means that surfing is very popular, but the sheer size of the beaches and sand-dunes mean that it doesn’t feel crowded even in the height of the season.  There are life-guarded beaches at La Coubre Lighthouse, La Bouverie, Pointe Espagnol, Les Pins de Cordouan and Clapet.  The pine forest here was planted in the 19^th century and is home to paths ideal for walking, cycling or horse-riding.  The Cote Sauvage hosts the Coup de France Surf and Bodyboard event during August.

La Tremblade France, Charente Maritime

Le Phare de la Coubre is the 64m high lighthouse (built in 1905) at the southern end of the Cote Sauvage.  Visitors can climb the 300 steps to get panoramic views of the coastline or visit the Eco-Museum.  Bateaux Paisseur operates small pedestrian ferries between the Pointe de Grave at La Tremblade, to Marennes and St Trojan Les Bains (Oleron), and Croisieres Alize offers boat trips to the Ile d’Aix during July and August.  The Zoo at La Palmyre is a major tourist attraction, where you can see around 1600 animals across a 15ha site, in spacious and well-kept enclosures.  Also nearby is the Cite de l’Huitre at Marennes, a discovery center with themed ‘Cabanes’ that introduce you to oyster culture and farming.

La Tremblade Economy

La Tremblade is part of the Saintonge Maritime economic zone which has an unemployment rate of 11.4%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

La Tremblade Facilities

La Tremblade has most amenities, including a supermarket, restaurants, cafes, there is an outdoor pool at Marennes (10km) only open in summer.

Education In La Tremblade France, Charente Maritime

There is a state nursery, a primary and secondary school in La Tremblade, but for college (Lycee) the nearest facilities are at Bourcefranc le Chapus (12km) or Royan (24km).  There is also a private primary school in the town.

La Tremblade France, Charente Maritime Key Stats

Whilst most of the properties in La Tremblade are main residences 49.9%, 44.8% are classed as second homes.  There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (37.8% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (32.3% vs 18.2%).  18.2% of the local population is under 19 years of age.  There are fewer males than females resident here (46.5% vs 53.5%).

 

Key Facilities and Services In La Tremblade France, Charente Maritime 

Supermarket	Post Office	Doctors
Bakers	Hairdressers	Pharmacies
Butchers	Banks	Dentist
Cafes/Bar	Tabac	Restaurants
DIY Store	Cinema	Library

La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France, Charente Maritime

La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France Geography and Transport

La Flotte-en-Re is a fishing village located on the northern and western side of the Ile de Re, off the Atlantic coast of La Rochelle.  The commune covers an area of 12.32km².  The island is accessible via a 3km toll bridge (cost from 9 euro to 16.50 return), and the D735 is the main road that runs through it.  Ile de Re can still be reached by boat, with the company Inter-Iles from the old port in La Rochelle, and also from a new facility (2008) at La Tranche Sur Mer (Vendee).  Timetables can vary in both days and times of travel depending on the season.  From La Rochelle, there are motorways towards Niort (N11) and Rochefort (N137).  There is no rail link from the island, but La Rochelle does provide access to both regional rail (TER) and the TGV, which links with Paris (Montparnasse) in a shade over 3 hours.  The nearest airport is La Rochelle, and this offers flights to a variety of UK destinations with the major budget carriers.

La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France Climate

The climate here is mild courtesy of the position of the village on the Atlantic coast.  This has the effect of keeping summer temperatures warm (but not excessively hot) whilst keeping winters mild.  Average summer temperatures are between 22C and 24C (14C to 17C night), and in winter this drops to 9C to 10C (4C to 5C night).  Spring and Autumn can be warm with May averaging 19C (12C), and September 22C (14C).  Wettest months are Oct and Nov with 65mm and 62mm respectively, and the driest months are June and Aug with 24mm and 29mm respectively.  This part of Charente Maritime receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

 

Tourism In La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France

La Flotte en Re is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France (Les plus beaux villages de France).  It developed alongside the site of the Chateau des Mauleons, which was subsequently destroyed during the wars of religion in 1575.  The chapel from the chateau was developed into what is now the St Catherine Church, with its large bell tower.  The village was once a deep-water port for the trade of salt, vinegar, wines, and spirits.  The existing landing port was built in the 18^th Century.

The architecture of interest includes the remains of the 12^th Century Chateliers Abbey (the oldest on Re), and the partially restored Fort de la Pree, built with stone from the Abbey to fend off the English and the Protestants.  The village has a Museum of Ecology the Maison du Platin, which has four levels and affords panoramic views over the bay of La Flotte.

La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France Facilities

Activities around La Flotte include catamaran sailing, horse and pony trekking, tennis, golf, and the opportunity to explore the island on a bicycle, the islands transport of choice.    There are 3 campsites all within close reach of the village amenities and the beach, and there are a number of restaurants and hotels in the vicinity, notably the four-star Richelieu Hotel, with its Michelin starred restaurant and Thalassotherapy center.  There is also a pretty indoor market, with a paved courtyard and surrounding market halls.  Much of the village is pedestrianized.

La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France Economy

La Flotte is part of the La Rochelle economic zone which has an unemployment rate of 9.8%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Education In La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France

La Flotte has a state nursery and primary school, and also a private primary school.  Secondary school is along at St Martin (4km).

 

La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France Key Stats

The unemployment rate is 12.5% compared to the national average of 9.6%.  44.5% of homes here are main homes, with 54.2% of properties are classed as second homes.  There are more people aged 60 or over than the national average (29.8% vs 21.3%), and the number of retired people is also higher (26.6% vs 18.2%).  20.1% of the local population is under 19 years of age.  There are fewer males than females resident here (48.5% vs 51.5%).  Hundreds of thousands of tourists visit the Ile de Re during peak times, but the population of the whole island is normally around 16,500.

Key Facilities and Services In La Flotte en Re, Ile de Re France

Supermarket	Post Office	DIY Store
Baker	Hairdresser	Café
Butcher	Bank	Dentist
Bar/Tabac	Pharmacy	Doctor
Restaurant	Library

Gond Pontouvre, Charente, France Holidays

Gond Pontouvre France Geography and Transport

Gond-Pontouvre is a small town (7.45km²) due North of Angouleme and is located to the South and East of the Charente Department (altitude 27m to 94m).  Originally called L’Houmeau-Pontouvre, the town changed its name in 1904.  The name Gond-Pontouvre refers to the River Touvre that runs through the commune and the bridges that cross it.  The River Touvre is a natural source that joins the Charente River after Gond Pontouvre, and supplies drinking water to Angouleme.  The RN10 (Poitiers-Bordeaux) passes close by to the West, where you can also join the RN141 carrying traffic between Cognac and Limoges.   Angouleme airport is to the East, with flights direct to the UK 3 times per week.  The TGV mainline is available from Angouleme (5km), with connection to Paris achievable in 2h20min.
See also:  Angouleme

Gond Pontouvre France Climate

The climate here is Maritime, and therefore temperate with four clearly defined seasons.  Average Summer temperatures are between 24C to 27C (13C-15C night), and in Winter this drops to 9C to 10C (3C night).  As with much of Poitou Charentes, the Autumn can be warm, with average temperatures in Sept of 23C and Oct 19C. The wettest months are normally October and November, whilst the driest are June and July.  Gond Pontouvre is part of a zone which receives over 2000 hours of sunshine per year.

Gond Pontouvre France Economy

The largest single business here is SCOPTA (tar and asphalt – construction materials), but the economy is driven mainly by commerce through shops and outlets.  Gond Pontrouvre is part of the Angouleme economic zone, which has an unemployment rate of 9.7%, compared against the regional rate of 8.6% and the national rate of 9.1% (INSEE 2006).

Gond Pontouvre France Facilities

Being part of Greater Angouleme, Gond-Pontouvre has easy access to all of the amenities of the City, such as shopping, tourist sites, and facilities.  The nearest swimming pool is at Saint Yriex sur Charente (3km), and the nearest cinema is Angouleme.

Education In Gond Pontouvre France

There is a choice of 3 state Nursery/Primary schools, and 1 High School (College).  For a greater selection of High Schools (College) and Colleges (Lycee), nearby Angouleme (5km) provides many choices.

Gond Pontouvre France Key Stats

92.3% of the properties in Gond-Pontouvre are classed as main homes, with 1.1% classed as second homes.  There are fewer males than females resident here (47.4%), and there are more people aged over 60 than the national average (26.7% vs 21.3%).  The number of retired people is also higher (22.6% vs 18.2%).  The percentage of people below the age of 19 is lower than the national average (21.7% vs 24.6%)

Key Facilities and Services:

 

Supermarket	Post Office	Butcher
Baker	Hairdresser	Dentist
Cafe	Bank	Doctor
Bar/Tabac	Pharmacy
Restaurant	Hardware Store

 

Know Gond Pontouvre better than we do?  Leave a comment below.

 

The enormous images on the 9,700-ft² dome screen take viewers deep into the Louisiana heartland.When the Mississippi was averted, New Orleans was able to reach out into these zones, but doing

so has resulted in huge coastal erosion. The damage to its bayous and wetlands, once natural

hurricane defenses, has been such that New Orleans finds itself at growing danger from cyclones.

Hurricane on the Bayou is a thrilling story and a musical celebration of New Orleans that teaches

young ages about the effect of protecting wetlands and ecosystems.

 

Brush with Genius –  2010

The paintings on the 6,500-ft² screen in Brush with Genius grant a totally new glance at Van Gogh and his work and the film’s striking graphics are a thrilling adventure to the sources of the artist’s inspiration.

The way the IMAX technology gives young guests a new view of art makes the cinema an original

distinct experience.

 

Arthur, the 4D Adventure –  2009

Arthur, the 4D Adventure from Luc Besson (director of The Fifth Element, Leon, and The Big Blue)

takes young visitors into the make-believe world of the Minimoys. The complete collection of vision technologies

(3D modeling, large-format IMAX 3D images, motion simulator and physical effects in the arena) and

the imaginative aptitude is seen in the Minimoys world thrust young guests on a roller coaster ride of excitement and thrills.

The Future is Wild New version 2009

Darwin’s theory of evolution projects light on how species evolved in the antiquity and is the incentive for Futuroscope’s imaginative look into tomorrow. Our young guests climb aboard safari vehicles for an interactive augmented-reality venture, where, kitted out with camera-binoculars and sensor bracelets, they will engage and communicate with animals that could be wandering the planet millions of years from now.

 

Cosmic Collisions –  2009

This spectacular, immersive and informative show from the American Museum of Natural History,

narrated by Robert Redford, takes young guests on a breathtaking adventure through time and space to

behold the cosmic crashes that shape the world. The scientific pictures are shown on the dome

the screen was taken by NASA satellites and modeled to simulate cosmic phenomena in 3D.

 

Fly Me to the Moon,  2009

Be a fly on the wall inside the first moon shuttle in Fly Me to the Moon and live an incredible

adventure with three stowaways.

 

Children’s World

Enjoy the amazing new games in Children’s World; A fun area for children where all the family can

relax.

 

The Blue Note Mystery evening show – 2009

And at the end of the day, the Blue Note Mystery evening show will bring you in a stunning musical

a fairy tale with lasers and special effects…..

Dinosaurs

230 million years ago, dinosaurs ruled the animal kingdom. Then, suddenly, 65 million years ago they disappeared. In this film, renowned paleontologist Rodolfo Coria takes us back 80 million years, to Patagonia, in the footsteps of the largest dinosaurs to have walked upon the planet.  70 mm film, shown on a 9,700-ft² hemispherical screen. Running time: 25 minutes.

 

Castle of Giddiness, the amazing world of Moebius

This spectacular romp takes visitors on a dizzying, interactive adventure into the graphics world of the artist Moebius.Spectacular trail of discovery. Running time: 5 minutes.

 

Lapland Express

Futuroscope’s new dynamic-cinema adventure takes thrill fiends on a pulsating snowmobile expedition across the vast, wild expanses of Lapland.  The seats are operated by hydraulic pistons to move in time with the on-screen action.

 

Seeing the wood

An open-air exhibition of 76 giant photos, in association with the CNDB (the French wood promotion board) and France Bois Forêt.

 

The Best of Dynamic Cinema

For 2008, Futuroscope brings visitors looking for an adrenalin high a new selection of dynamic adventures to enjoy on seats that move in time to the images. The seats are operated by hydraulic pistons to move in time with the on-screen action. Running time: 5 minutes.

 

New games in Children’s World

In 2008, Futuroscope gives kids and their families more of what they want by filling the two hectares of Children’s World with more new fun, creative and sporting activities that will work their minds and bodies.

 

Budding Drivers, in association with MAIF

Budding Drivers sends youngsters out behind the wheel into the traffic of a futuristic city.

 

The Daredevils’ Quiz, in association with Smart us

In this new and intelligent games area, children choose a challenge from the screen and off they go, dashing around to win territory, bouncing around on the interactive hopscotch grid in a test of speed and memory, and more!

 

The Volcano Slide

What kind of strange volcano is this, bursting out of the ground in the middle of Children’s World? The bravest would-be mountaineers must hang on tight as they climb over 20 feet up to the top. Getting down is easy: just slide along the giant tunnel.

For children aged 4 to 12.

 

Objective Lyoko, in association with Code Lyoko

Grown-ups will enjoy foam-ball fights in this covered area decorated in the colors of the animated series Code Lyoko

 

Not forgetting… the experiences visitors keep coming back for

 

Dynamic Vienne + added effects

One of the biggest crowd pleasers is enjoying a new lease of life! Since 2007, Dynamic Vienne has been dishing out even more special effects…

 

Journey into the Dark

More than 300,000 visitors have already taken part in Futuroscope’s awareness-raising presentation Journey into the Dark, a fun walk in the dark through a number of specially arranged zones prepared using objects smells and sounds.

 

Mission: Eclabousse!

An aquatic action adventure for all the family in which visitors navigate their way around an island on futuristic boats armed with water cannons

 

The mystery of the Nile

The Nile has exerted a tremendous lure over men for thousands of years. The mystery of the Nile uses a 6,500-ft² IMAX® flat screen to tell the epic journey of a team of explorers

 

Deep Sea 3D

The ocean abysses are home to fish, turtles, starfish, giant squid, jellyfish and other rare, sometimes startling, creatures. The large, IMAX® 3D images projected against the giant dome screen plunges visitors into the deep sea

 

Dances with Robots

The showpiece attraction devised by Kamel Ouali In the vast, hip-looking ballroom, ten 23-ft-high articulated arms seem to burst from the ground and beckon visitors to take their seats in pairs in the giant palms. The metallic hands then gently close around those who are daring enough to brave this momentous experience.

 

Star of the Future!

Visitors to Futuroscope can now land the starring role. This attraction lets them get in on the act, whisking them to the heart of the film-set action, giving them the chance to step out in front of the camera in a different type of audition

Futuroscope Theme Park France

Treat yourself to our new attractions, if you dare

From the initial, straightforward idea of offering an enjoyable and enriching experience, Futuroscope has nurtured its daring approach and creative spirit to become what it is today: not just a place to visit; a place to share. Futuroscope is

an experience to enjoy with friends and family. Coming here is a chance to recharge the batteries, to get away from the humdrum, to discover and experience, but most of all a chance to build a shared memory.

Futuroscope Theme Park France is different; its difference lies in the variety and originality of the experiences it offers its visitors, in the combination of modernity and humanity, the perfect balance between thrills and discovery that are available at every stage of the visit, the joy it brings to people of all ages, but especially in the warmth of its welcome and the special bond it maintains with its visitors. Here you can act the star, test your physical prowess, stimulate the talents of your imagination, play the same games as your kids, jump into the 3D experience and explore new horizons, boogie with a giant robot, enjoy the magic of a live show together, taste the cuisine of the future, walk on the ceiling and into a world of illusion, see contemporary art in the open air, and, from April, go on a safari into the future thanks to the revolutionary technology of augmented reality…

Futuroscope Theme Park France brings you more than 30 distinctive and amazing, immersive and hands-on experiences that let you play, explore, dream and excel.