There are many superb sandy beaches within easy driving distance. Some of note include those at La Rochelle, Royan, Rochefort and Chatelaillon-Plage.

Royan has been one of France's leading seaside resorts since the late 19th century. Its beach, the "Grande Conche", is 600m long and a popular area for bathers.

Like other popular seaside resorts there are many activities on and off the beach for the young and old alike. Royan is also famous for La Palmyre, France's best zoological park.

Rochefort is an ancient fortified town which was the centre for rope making in the era of sailing ships. You can visit the museums of maritime history and see the reconstruction of the sailing ship l'Hermione in progress.

If you are seeking somewhere a little more out of town, Chatelaillon-Plage, due to its small waves and no breakers, is one of the safest beaches on the Atlantic coast, with 3km of golden sands.