Charente Vendee Attractions  This area of France has a rich variety of attractions for the holidaymaker.  Of course the miles of sandy beaches draw the crowds year after year, but there are some delightful towns and villages as well, plus vineyards aplenty with the added benefit of the home of Cognac and the local speciality Pineau. Also you will find splendid theme parks such as le Puy du Fou or Futuroscope, as well as idyllic islands, fascinating geographical features....

Le Chateau des Aventuriers
Ideal for younger families

Location: Heading on the D949 from Lucon in the direction of Les Sables, you'll find the Château de la Guignardière on the left hand side just outside Avrillé.  There's plentiful parking available.

General information: Open 5th April - 25th September (2011), 10AM - 9PM in peak summer months.  For more information call 02 51 22 33 06 or see their website.  Entrance costs 11 Euros for an adult, 8.50 Euros for 3-12 year olds and under 3s are free.

Description: In the lovely setting of le Château de la Guignardière this purpose built tourist attraction (with an original chateau) offers a pleasant day out for younger families with four different discovery trails including one specifically for 3-7 year olds.
Our recommendations: Pack a picnic to get the most from your day (although there's a snack bar if you prefer convenience).
For the children: Basically made for them!

        - Aquarium at La Rochelle
        - Aqualand theme park
        - Atlantic Toboggan
        - Château des Enigmes
        - Futuroscope
        - Indian Forest
        - Ile de Ré
        - Labyrinthe Vegetal
        - Le Chateau des Aventuriers
        - Le Dune du Pilat
        - Le Marais Poitévin
        - Le Puy du Fou
        - Oceanile
        - Tepacap
        - Vallée des Singes
        - Zoo de la Palmyre

External websites offering information on the Vendee and Charente Maritime:

- Holidays France Atlantic Website
- Le Charente

- Angela Bird's website on the Vendée

     - Top Attractions in Charente / Vendee
     - Top ten Holiday destinations in France