Introduction
Poitou-Charentes is a region of France situated half way down the Atlantic coast. A largely rural area, Poitou's agriculture is based primarily around wheat, maize and sunflower fields. In Charente, miles of vineyards take advantage of the fertile banks of the River Charente.
Poitou-Charentes is famous for the canal system that fringes its northern border with Pays de la Loire. The Marais Poitevin, known as La Venise Verte - the Green Venice - stretches across an area of low lying marshland with deep green, tree-covered tunnels romantically winding across the countryside.
Along the Poitou-Charentes' coastline is the seaside harbour city of La Rochelle. Arguably the best-preserved seaside town in France and one of the most pleasant to visit, La Rochelle is centred around the Vieux Port, an impressive fortified port frequented by small fishing boats and yachts and guarded by two impressive turrets. The pretty waterfront allows for endless hours of strolling and watching people and boats while enjoying the pleasant sea breeze that whips in from the Atlantic.
