It's hot in Charente-Maritime: our top tips for staying cool!

Summer heat is here and you're looking for good ideas to stay cool ? Don't worry, the Charente-Maritime Guide has put together an ideal program to avoid sunburn while enjoying the summer.

Swimming in Charente-Maritime: the ultimate way to cool off

Diving into the water is one of the best ways to avoid heatstroke when the sun is at its peak. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Charente-Maritime is the ideal destination to enjoy swimming on the many fine sandy beaches that line the coast.

Don't like salt water? Opt for leisure centers or water parks to stay in your swimsuit all summer long!

Discover the Marais Poitevin and its shaded areas

Spanning several departments, including Charente-Maritime, the Marais Poitevin is a stunning natural region traversed by the Sèvre Niortaise river, revealing a verdant landscape year-round. Whether you enjoy a boat trip, fishing on the banks, hiking on the trails, observing the flora and fauna, or a picnic in the countryside, you can easily spend several days enjoying the refreshing atmosphere !

Having fun in the cool air in a garden or theme park

In La Rochelle, Saintes, Royan, and Rochefort, verdant gardens welcome children in the shade of the trees, offering them a moment of freedom. Slides, swings, merry-go-rounds, skate parks, ponds, and small streams for observing ducks and fish—they'll love soaking up the greenery! Most often, benches , picnic tables, and paths are provided for strolling in nature when it's hot in Charente-Maritime. Theme parks are another great option for combining coolness and discovery, such as Planet Exotica or Myocastors Park on the Île d'Oléron.

Visit the La Rochelle Aquarium in the shade

Dive into the heart of the oceans at one of Europe's largest private aquariums : the La Rochelle Aquarium ! You'll be captivated by the shapes, colors, sizes, and beauty of every fish and mammal swimming before your eyes in 82 different tanks. From the Mediterranean Sea and jellyfish exhibits to the Caribbean Sea and shark tanks, a true journey through the underwater world awaits you, with the added bonus of staying cool during your two-hour unforgettable visit.

Go canoeing, kayaking or paddleboarding

Glide across the water to the rhythm of your paddles; Charente-Maritime invites you to discover the joys of water sports on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean or in the gentle marshes. A refreshing outing is guaranteed aboard your boat as you explore the region's hidden gems ! Rentals are often offered by the hour or half-day, providing the perfect opportunity for a swim or picnic by the water when the weather warms up.

Visiting churches and museums to escape the heat

Enjoy the natural air conditioning of the old stones as you explore the beautiful churches of the region. Built in different periods, they showcase a variety of architectural styles and offer a refreshing respite during the summer.

Museums, most of which are air-conditioned and open year-round, are another great way to escape the heat in Charente-Maritime. From miniature museums and museums of bygone trades to the oyster city, which resembles an open-air museum, there's something for everyone.

Admire open-air quarries

The Charente-Maritime guide presents two unusual sites:

• The Crazannes quarries, awarded the "Échapées Nature" label, invite you to the heart of the Earth. Spanning 12 hectares, they offer a surprising landscape between the whiteness of the stones and the lush vegetation.
• The Saint-Georges quarry, located within the Kaolune tourist site, is nestled in the heart of the Double Saintongeaise forest. Magnificent with its expanse of water surrounded by stone and greenery, it was once exploited for its clay and forest. In summer, self-guided or guided tours are offered; please inquire for more information.

Going to the cinema in case of extreme heat

It's a classic that always pleases! When it's hot in Charente-Maritime, cinemas and their air-conditioned theaters are a welcome respite from the best films currently showing. Whether with family, your partner, or friends, buy your ticket, grab some popcorn, and settle in comfortably for a few refreshing hours.

You now have a whole program of activities to stay cool when it's hot in Charente-Maritime!

Did you enjoy our report? Find more in the Top Experiences section.

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