Holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes – peace, nature and French charm between the Loire and the coast

Between the Loire Valley and the Atlantic Ocean, there is a region where France is still at its best: the Poitou-Charentes. Here you can enjoy peace, space and plenty of sunshine, far away from the hustle and bustle of mass tourism. The soft whisper of the oak forests and the song of crickets form the backdrop to your days.
According to Atout France the Poitou-Charentes is one of the sunniest regions of France, with more than 2400 hours of sunshine per year. Summers are warm yet pleasant, while springs are fresh and full of flowers. Your holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes is located exactly between the Loire and the Atlantic coast, making it an ideal place for nature lovers, culture lovers and anyone who loves the French lifestyle. If you would like to discover more of the country, the holidays in France page provides an overview of other regions where FranceComfort operates.

Our parks in the region     Our homes in the region

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A morning in the French country

The first rays of sunshine break through over the rolling meadows. In the distance you can hear the crowing of a rooster. You open the shutters of your holiday villa and let the fresh air flow in. On the kitchen counter lies a freshly baked baguette from the village baker, and the aroma of coffee wafts through the kitchen.

Outside, there is a serene silence, broken only by the soft tapping of a shutter flapping in the wind. You pour yourself a cup of coffee and walk to the terrace. In the distance you can hear a bell ringing, nothing else can be heard. The day starts in the typical French way: relaxed, without any rush.

Later in the day, drive to Parthenay Market. On the Poitou-Charentes markets page, you will find an overview of all the villages where the stalls are set up every week. You can admire the selection of fruit, cheeses, honey, olives and wine, and soak up the atmosphere of the French market.

The four faces of Poitou-Charentes

The region consists of four departments, each with its own character and atmosphere.

Charente – famous for the city of Cognac and the river that winds through the countryside. Here you will find majestic castles, sun-drenched vineyards and rolling hills that invite you to explore.
Charente-Maritime – the coastal region that is home to beautiful places such as La Rochelle and Royan, as well as the popular islands of Île de Ré and Île d'Oléron. Here you can enjoy the fresh sea air and beautiful beaches.
Deux-Sèvres – the green heart of the region, where the Marais Poitevin is located. This area is often referred to as the ‘Green Venice’ and offers a beautiful setting for nature lovers.
Vienne – the department of Poitiers, full of history and the futuristic amusement park Futuroscope.

On the page nature reserves in Poitou-Charentes you will find the most beautiful places for walks, boat trips or picnics, perfect for enjoying the calm and beauty of the greenery.

History and heritage

The Poitou-Charentes is not only beautiful, but also rich in history. You will find traces of Roman times, medieval abbeys and old pilgrimage routes.

A must-see is the Abbey of Saint-Savin, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The frescoes here are from the eleventh century and are considered some of the finest in Europe. In Poitiers you will find dozens of Romanesque churches, the highlight of which is the magnificent Notre-Dame-la-Grande. And on the coast lies Fort Boyard, the famous fortress located between the mainland and the Île d'Oléron. You can reach it by boat from La Rochelle or Rochefort.

Each village has its own story: from a lively market square to an old fountain and a church that has stood proudly for centuries. Travelling through Poitou-Charentes, you will discover not only the beauty of France, but also a piece of time itself.

Hiking, cycling and nature

The nature in this area is just waiting to be discovered. Forests, lakes, hills, and rivers form a beautiful backdrop for peaceful walks or relaxed bike rides.

Walking in Poitou-Charentes offers the most beautiful routes, ranging from short walks through the forest to long hikes that take you past rivers and castles; there is something for everyone.
For cyclists, cycling in Poitou-Charentes offers maps and tips on paved paths, low-traffic roads and cycle routes along the banks of the Charente.

Highly recommended is the Marais Poitevin, a maze of waterways that you can paddle through in a wooden boat. Birds fly overhead and the water reflects the sky. It is so quiet – the kind of silence you can only really hear when you have long forgotten the city.

Guest Experience

“The welcome was warm, the house spacious and spotlessly clean. Aveneau – Vieille Vigne is a place where you automatically relax.”– The De Wilde family

Average rating: 4.6 / 5 stars.

FranceComfort – your home in France

In the beautiful region of Poitou-Charentes, you will find three unique FranceComfort parks: Aveneau-Vieille Vigne, Domaine les Forges-Le Bois Senis and Bourg Est – Vigelière. Each park has its own charm and character. These parks offer spacious villas that can accommodate 4, 6 or 8 people. You can choose from properties with 1 to 3 bathrooms, depending on your needs. For those who want a little more luxury, there are also villas with a private swimming pool and air conditioning available. You can read more about this comfort at holiday homes with air conditioning. The properties are equipped with a modern kitchen, a bright and inviting living room, a spacious terrace and a large garden that offers privacy. The parks managers speak Dutch, so you will quickly feel at home.
The atmosphere is friendly and the maintenance of the parks is of excellent quality.

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Aveneau – Vieille Vigne

Aveneau-Vieille Vigne is nestled between Les Forges and the vast countryside of Deux-Sèvres. You can stay in a comfortable holiday villa, suitable for four, six or even eight people. Some of these villas feature a private pool, while all properties offer a garden, a terrace, and an abundance of natural light. In the park you will find a large communal swimming pool, a children's play area, a sports field and quiet places to relax.
The surrounding area has a lot to offer, including Poitiers, the Futuroscope and La Rochelle. On holiday in Poitou-Charentes, you will find an overview of activities in the area.
Insider tip from the park manager: there is a small market in Vasles on Sundays.

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Domaine les Forges – Le Bois Senis

Just outside the picturesque village of les Forges is Domaine les Forges - Le Bois Senis, which is home to stylish villas for four and six people. Each villa is equipped with two bathrooms, and for those looking for a little extra luxury, there are villas with a private pool.
The park offers plenty of entertainment for the children, with playground equipment, a pétanque court and a large communal swimming pool where you can relax. The area exudes a serene atmosphere, surrounded by green avenues full of trees and hedges.
In just an hour you can be in La Rochelle or Cognac. In the nearby village of Vasles there is a bakery, a cozy restaurant and a supermarket for daily necessities.

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Bourg Est – Vigelière

Bourg Est-Vigelière is located between the heart of Les Forges and a golf course, where a serene tranquillity reigns. The villas are located on spacious plots that offer a lot of privacy. Accommodation is available for 4, 6 or even 8 people, and some homes even have their own swimming pool. The atmosphere at this villa park is warm and personal, which ensures a warm welcome.
You can easily walk into the village to have something to eat at a local restaurant. The surrounding area includes places such as Parthenay and Vasles and an abundance of hiking trails to explore.
You can find more villages and excursions at tourist villages in Les Forges and the surrounding area.

On the Atlantic coast – from Royan to Île d'Oléron

Not far from the FranceComfort parks, you will find the beautiful Atlantic coast, full of vast sandy beaches, dunes and charming fishing villages. The most famous city in this region is La Rochelle. Here, the harbour is bustling with life and delicious fresh mussels and oysters are served in the restaurants. A visit to the aquarium from your holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes  is definitely worthwhile; it is one of the most beautiful in all of Europe.

Further south is Royan, famous for its wide beaches and a promenade lined with palm trees. This is the ideal place for sailing, surfing or just relaxing by the water. Off the coast lies the famous island Île de Ré, which you can reach via a bridge. Here you will find cute white houses with blue shutters, bike paths in the region that wind through salt fields and markets selling grilled fish, which makes this island ideal for those looking for peace and quiet. Cycling routes can be found at Ile de Ré Tourisme.

For nature lovers, there is Île d'Oléron, which is even wilder, wilder and quieter. The island has beautiful pine forests, quiet beaches and small oyster ports. On hot summer days, a day at the coast is a wonderful adventure, a nice change from your stay inland.

Hidden gems and insider tips

Sanxay – a village with impressive Roman ruins and an open-air theatre where concerts and operas take place in the summer. Illuminated by torches and stars in the evening, it is a magical place.
Ménigoute – known for its annual nature film festival. In October there is the international bird show.
Nieuil-l'Espoir – a charming village with a church, restaurant and market on Wednesdays.
Vasles – close to the FranceComfort parks, is a friendly village with a bakery, butcher, restaurant and a small market. In the summer there is a village festival with music and local wine. From your holiday home in this region you can enjoy it to the fullest.
Parthenay – a medieval hilltop town with narrow streets, city gates, and art shops.
Saint-Loup-sur-Thouet – a village steeped in history on the banks of the Thouet river, with a castle and a sixteenth-century stone bridge.
Coulon – the heart of the Marais Poitevin, where you can hire a boat and sail through the "Green Venice".
Airvault – with its old abbey, medieval city gates and hidden squares.
Saint-Maixent-l'École – a lively town with cafés and a weekly market full of local produce.

 The flavour of France – gastronomy in the Poitou-Charentes

France is the country of flavour, and the Poitou-Charentes is no exception. The dishes are pure, the ingredients are local, and every meal is served with pride. Try the oysters from Marennes-Oléron, famous for their salty, fresh taste. Pair them with a glass Pineau des Charentes, a local liqueur made from wine and cognac. According to France.fr this is "a region where simplicity and flavour come together". The soft Chabichou du Poitou, a goat's cheese with a slightly nutty taste, belongs to this region. Those who eat in the Charente will discover dishes such as Mouclade Charentaise(mussels with wine and cream), farci poitevin(vegetable pie with herbs) and angélique of Niort– a sweet delicacy from the marshes around Niort. Check out the markets in Les Forges to buy local products directly from the producer.

Wine and Pineau

The Poitou-Charentes borders the famous Bordeaux wine region, but has its own wines: vins du Haut-Poitou and vins de Pays Charentais. The most famous drink is ,of course, Cognac, produced around the city of the same name. Distilleries such as Rémy Martin, Martell and Hennessy welcome visitors for tours and tastings. A nice variation is Pineau des Charentes, a fortified wine often drunk as an aperitif. All information can be found on Cognac Tourisme.

Sustainable and responsible travel

FranceComfort strives to offer sustainable holidays. The holiday parks in Poitou-Charentes have been built with respect for nature and the environment. The villas are well insulated and equipped with energy-efficient systems.
Waste is separated, water conservation is encouraged and local suppliers are supported.

There are plenty of charging points in the area. Many holiday homes also have charging facilities, so you can leave your car at home. Read more about travelling to France by electric car. If you want to travel sustainably, choose to walk or cycle, buy local products and support small businesses.

Activities per target group

Families with children

Poitou-Charentes is the perfect destination for families. FranceComfort's parks are safe, well-organised and ideal for children. You will find spacious gardens, well-maintained swimming pools and an environment full of possibilities.
A day trip to Futuroscope is a real adventure full of light and movement. Or how about an afternoon at Zoo de La Palmyre? Or another animal park? This is a wonderful experience for young and old alike. And a boat trip through the Marais Poitevin allows children to discover nature in an exciting way. Of course, a visit to Puy du Fou and Aquascope is also on the programme. A holiday home in the Poitou-Charentes is an excellent base for these activities.
For more ideas, take a look at holidays in France with children. 

Seniors and bon vivants

This region is ideal for anyone who loves peace and nature. The roads are peaceful, the villages are welcoming, and the air is fresh and clear.
In the FranceComfort parks you will find cozy villas with Dutch-speaking managers who are happy to help you plan trips or make reservations.
For active seniors, there are plenty of options: walking routes, cycle paths and golf courses. Take a look at the sports activities in the Poitou-Charentes where you can play golf, tennis, go canoeing and much more.

Couples and peace seekers

For couples, the Poitou-Charentes is truly an oasis of peace. Start your day with a walk through the vast fields, enjoy a tasty lunch in a picturesque village garden in the afternoon, and end the day with a glass of wine under the starry sky.
Your holiday villa in France offers you a comfortable and private environment. Whether you choose Aveneau – Vieille Vigne, Domaine les Forges – Le Bois Senis or Bourg Est – Vigelière, you will experience the tranquillity and comfort that this region has to offer all around you. The area is dotted with romantic locations: imagine yourself having a picnic on the banks of the river, an intimate dinner in a small restaurant in Vasles, or an evening stroll along the old walls of Parthenay. A moment of reflection and contemplation is possible when you visit Oradour-sur-Glane, where you can see the horrors of the Second World War.

Holidays with your dog

Your dog is welcome in many of the holiday homes. The area around Les Forges is ideal for long walks. With extensive forests, beautiful paths and green fields, it is truly a paradise for dogs and their owners.
Read more about holidays with your dog and the options available per park and property.

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A day in the life of a guest

"On a warm afternoon we arrived at the holiday home in Les Forges. The children couldn't wait and immediately jumped into the pool, while I made coffee on the terrace. In the distance you could hear a rooster crowing.
Later that evening we walked to Vasles. We chose a small restaurant where we could sit outside and watch the sun slowly disappear behind the hills.
The following days were wonderfully relaxed. We swam, cycled, visited the market and spent an afternoon by the sea. The children loved a day at O'Gliss Water Park. By the time we left, we had already decided that we definitely wanted to come back next year.”

Travel information and accessibility

Poitou-Charentes is centrally located in France and easily accessible. From the Netherlands or Flanders, it takes about nine hours to drive there by car. The route via Paris, Tours and Poitiers is quiet and well signposted.

You can also reach the region by train; the TGV departs from Paris to Poitiers. If you prefer to fly to France, there are airports in Poitiers, La Rochelle and Bordeaux. You can rent a car at the airport.

Before you leave you will need to pack your bags. Use our handy packing lists so you don't forget anything. It is also useful to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations in France and useful tips for traffic rules, toll roads and environmental zones. Please read the traffic rules to avoid getting a traffic fine.

Prices and seasons

The Poitou-Charentes is a great region to visit in every season.
Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures, flowering fields and tranquillity.
In the summer it is lively with markets, music and sunny days.
In winter, silence reigns – ideal for a weekend filled with books, cosiness and long walks.

Price indication per week:

  • 4-person villa: € 650 – € 1,900
  • 6-person villa: € 850 – € 2,100
  • 8-person villa: € 1.100 – € 2.500

Included: final cleaning, made-up beds and service.

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Discover other regions of FranceComfort

Discover other beautiful regions of FranceComfort! In addition to the beautiful Poitou-Charentes region on the Atlantic coast,  FranceComfort has beautiful holiday parks in other popular regions of France.

In the south-west, you will find our luxury parks in the Dordogne, a region full of castles, rivers and markets. Enjoy the peace and gastronomy during your holiday in the Dordogne, or choose a holiday home in the Dordogne with swimming pool and a view over the hills. Also visit the atmospheric markets in the Dordogne and the Lot where local products, cheeses and wines are central.

The Languedoc is a region of great variety: vineyards, villages and the Mediterranean Sea are all close by. On the page about holidays in the Languedoc, you can read more about the region and its atmosphere. If you prefer your own space with plenty of room and comfort, a holiday home in Languedoc-Roussillon is the perfect choice. For a glimpse into daily life, the markets in the Languedoc are always well worth a visit.

Further south is Provence, a region known for lavender fields, sunshine and charm. At FranceComfort, you can stay in a comfortable holiday home in Provence or discover the sunny south during your holiday in Provence.
If you love conviviality and culture, visit the colourful markets in Provence and Côte d'Azur. A day to the Mediterranean Sea will also be on the schedule.

In the Alps you can enjoy both a summer holiday with markets in mountain villages and a winter sports holiday. Our two resorts are located in the Portes du Soleil near the slopes and ski lifts.

During your stay, you can also enjoy French public holidays. On the 14th of July, France's national holiday, the whole country celebrates the Quatorze Juillet  with fireworks, music and village festivals. You can read more about special holidays and traditions on holidays in France.

Wherever you stay – in the Dordogne, Provence or Poitou-Charentes – at FranceComfort you will always enjoy luxury, tranquillity and the warm French atmosphere.

Guest review

“Our house at Domaine les Forges overlooked the golf course. Breakfast on the terrace in the morning, barbecue under the stars in the evening. Peace and luxury at the same time.” – The Janssens family

Your own holiday home in France

More and more people are choosing to buy their own home in France. The low prices, the good return and the tax savings in box 3 make it particularly attractive for Dutch and Belgian buyers to purchase a holiday home.
You have full control over when and if you decide to rent your holiday home out. What is certain is that your holiday home is in good hands with FranceComfort, so you don't have to worry about anything.
If you want to know more, read about how buying a holiday home is not only an investment, but also a way to enjoy yourself twice as much. Owning your own holiday home gives you the freedom, security and the opportunity to rent it out when you are not there yourself.

Frequently asked questions

1. What makes the Poitou-Charentes so special?
The combination of sun, tranquillity, nature and authentic villages. You can also spend a day at the beach or visit an amusement park.

2. Are the holiday homes suitable for families?
Yes, the holiday homes have spacious gardens with plenty of privacy so that children can play to their heart's content.

3. Can I bring my dog?
In many homes, your pet is welcome. The area is very suitable for taking long walks with your dog.

4. How far is the coast?
It is about an hour's drive to the Atlantic coast and places such as La Rochelle.

5. Are there villas with air conditioning or swimming pool?
Yes, there are plenty of villas with private swimming pools or air conditioning, see holiday homes with private swimming pools in France.

FranceComfort – where comfort and France come together

A stay at FranceComfort is more than a holiday. Your holiday home in Poitou-Charentes is like coming home to a place where life is good and pleasant. In your FranceComfort holiday home you can enjoy luxury, peace and service – with the certainty that everything is taken care of. Whether you choose Aveneau – Vieille Vigne, Domaine les Forges – Le Bois Senis or Bourg Est – Vigelière, you will experience the same hospitality, the same care and the same French charm. View our parks on holiday in the Poitou-Charentes or discover more regions via holiday home in France.

Your holiday home in Poitou-Charentes is waiting for you.
At FranceComfort, your holiday in France begins as you mean it to be.

Book your holiday in Poitou-Charentes today with FranceComfort

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