10 Points of Interest & Landmarks in Poitou-Charentes That You Shouldn't Miss

Crossing the threshold of the Martell House, in Cognac, means entering into a unique story. It is the story of a man, Jean Martell who founded his cognac house, in 1715 under the reign of Louis XIV. It is the story of a house which, from one generation to the next, has kept alive the age-old knowhow of vine- growers, distillers, barrel-makers and cellar masters. It is the story of a beautiful region, whose crus bear poetic names: Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois. It is the story of a French art of living made up of refinement and elegance, whose spirit gives Martell cognacs their clearly recognizable style. It is a story to be discovered, explored… and savoured.

Embark on the Hermione adventure in Rochefort ! Explore France's largest replica of an old sailing boat. Find out more about this extraordinary adventure with a host of guided tours, events and activities. Get on board and discover the upper deck and go on the gun deck, learn more about traditional craftmanship, sailmaking, rigging,... Through panels, pictures and movies, you will discover history, shipbuilding and life on board.

Looking out to the Atlantic, the Tour Saint-Nicolas (14th century), the Tour de la Chaîne (14th century) and the Tour de la Lanterne (12th and15th century) are the remains of a great fortification building campaign undertaken in the City of La Rochelle from 1199. The Tour Saint-Nicolas and the Tour de la Chaîne form the majestic gateway to the Old Port and for ten centuries formed the key defensive bastions to the city. As true palatial constructions and city castles, they are the symbol of a city with a very rich hand proud seafaring and trading heritage. The Tour de la Lanterne, the oldest lighthouse on the Atlantic coast and then a navy prison, contains over 600 examples of graffiti carved into the walls by prisoners in over 3 centuries. Open: > 1st April to 30th September: Tower Saint-Nicolas: from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. ; Tower of La Chaîne and La Lanterne: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2.15 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. > 1st October to 31st March: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2.15 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Closed: > 1st January, 1st May and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 1 tower ticket : 6 € ; 3 towers ticket : 8,50 € ; Concessions (18 to 25) = 1 tower ticket : 4 € ; 3 towers ticket : 5,50 € ; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groups