A downpour? A visit! When the sun plays hide-and-seek during your stay at the hotel on the Île de Ré in Charente-Maritime, it never lasts long: just enough time to swap the beach for an exciting family outing! With our top 10 must-see sites for rainy days, you’ll have plenty of options to make the most of a less-than-sunny day.
The La Rochelle Aquarium
Located at the harbor, the La Rochelle Aquarium is one of the largest private aquariums in Europe. It offers a worldwide underwater journey to discover 12,000 marine animals from the Atlantic, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Indian Ocean, Pacific, and tropical mangroves.
The Hermione
An identical reproduction of the frigate that took Lafayette to America, the Hermione is the pride of Rochefort, her home port where she returns to anchor each year after her winter travels. A visit to this historical gem in the former maritime arsenal is a must-see in Charente-Maritime, no matter the weather!
The Royal Rope Factory of Rochefort
In the heart of Rochefort's maritime arsenal, like the Hermione, the historic Royal Rope Factory now houses a fascinating museum. It offers a playful and interactive exploration of the history of this prestigious manufacture. Perfect for families, this site will make you forget about the rainstorm you were trying to avoid!
The Matata Caves
Between Royan and Talmont-Saint-Hilaire, the limestone cliffs of Meschers are dotted with troglodytic dwellings. The caves, shaped by the force of tides, have been inhabited by humans since ancient times. Discover their legends and stories by visiting the site’s eco-museum. Don’t miss the troglodytic crêperie and its terrace overlooking the water.
The Paléosite
A museum entirely dedicated to Neanderthals, the Paléosite is a perfect family outing for rainy days. It features interactive discovery zones, numerous workshops, projection rooms, and life-size reconstructions.