Explore La Rochelle and the Vendée by rail, with six nights in Fontenay-le-Comte and a tour manager leading coach excursions including historic towns and a cognac tasting.
  • Explore La Rochelle’s old harbour and its twin medieval sea towers.
  • Glide the Marais Poitevin waterways on a flat-bottomed boat.
  • Wander Fontenay-le-Comte’s market and medieval streets, châteaux, and cathedral.
  • Discover Saintes’ Roman Arch, amphitheatre, and Abbaye aux Dames.
  • Taste cognac in its riverside hometown on the Charente.
  • Explore Rochefort’s Corderie Royale and grand maritime heritage.
  • Visit Nantes’ castle and cathedral amid medieval streets and Art Nouveau squares.
  • Taste local wines at a Vendée winery.
Stay at the three-star Hotel Le Rabelais in central Fontenay-le-Comte on the banks of the Vendée. Facilities include a well-regarded restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool (May–September), gym, and spa with sauna. Comfortable bedrooms offer en-suite bathroom, TV, telephone, free Wi-Fi, and air-conditioning.