Local town of PONS.:
A pilgrim’s town
The town of Pons, which lies in the lovely rolling countryside of the Charente-Maritime in western France, once had a very important role to play in the journeys of many pilgrims who were following their faith to Compostela. The town had a pilgrims’ hospital, which offered sanctuary and rest to the pilgrims who passed through the gates of the town, and this building remains today, as one of the few remaining examples of its type. It is considered so important that it has been officially recognised as a world heritage site.
A beautiful chateau with a mystery…
Pons also has a vast and beautiful chateau, the Château des Enigmes, and a very imposing “donjon” (keep). The keep, at 30 metres high, provides a wonderful vantage point from which there are panoramic views of the Vallée de la Seigne. Fields of sunflowers and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, and even the climb to the top seems worthwhile when you can enjoy views such as these!
La Rochelle:
La Rochelle is the “capital” city of the Vendee region, famous for its harbour and delightful old town. There are many attractions here to make a splendid day out.
For the children: The town’s aquarium is well worth a visit. It is set in the newer part of the town. Allow half a day for a visit. After the aquarium visit you can cross a small footbridge and take a short water taxi ride to the old town (see right).
The charms of a cultural heritage
If La Rochelle is blessed with a cultural heritage, it has, over the years, known how to look after and enhance it. Wood framed and slate fronted houses from the middle Ages, prestigious mansions and town houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, the soberness and nobility of the 18th century ship owners' houses, so much history, be it flourishing or tumultuous, to visit under the watchful eyes of the gargoyles.
Gastronomy
La Rochelle's 400 restaurants make it a Mecca for gastronomy - only a stone's throw from Cognac and Bordeaux.
Meschers:
Meschers, the seaside resort and the troglodytique caves Meschers, is not only an exceptional troglodytique site, it is also a seaside resort which extends from Saint-Georges-de-Didonne and a good harbour for sailing and fishing. As far as Meschers is concerned, one thinks immediately of the caves dug into the limestone cliff above the Gironde.
Meschers, is not only an exceptional troglodytique site, it is also a seaside resort which extends from Saint-Georges-de-Didonne and a good harbour for sailing and fishing. For me, Meschers is the end of the sandy beaches and the beginning of the real estuary. If you already know Meschers, you will have appreciated its diversity. If, however, you are just discovering Meschers, I suggest you spend a day or even just a morning or afternoon there and walk from the beach of Nonnes to the harbour, following the small road along the top of the cliffs which takes you past the caves.
