The c(h)at is a reminder that one is at the Châtelaillon-Plage end of a long bay that sweeps round to Angoulins.

Chatelaillon to Fouras.

Less than fifteen minutes from a major centre.

This has to be a popular area with both the French themselves and any foreigner who is seeking a seaside home while having access to the services of major towns. The distance from la Rochelle to Rochefort is no more than 20 miles and they are connected by a motorway which fairly hugs the coast. Châtelaillon-Plage, in the middle should not be more than a 15 minute drive to either centre. Anywhere else on the coast you're closer to one than the other!

A sheltered coastline.

But conveniences of that sort will make this area expensive by French standards. And one has not entirely exhausted the advantages available particularly is you are proposing to make a new home your permenent residence. The Île d'Oleron lies parallel to this waterfront. If you are intent on buying a villa that overlooks the sea that stretch of low-lying land, no more than about eight miles away, may not be much of a wind break during south westerly storms - but it will certainly moderate the power of driving breakers.

In the past Fouras' ancient stronghold saw more Flowers of Sulphur than the herbaceous kinds.

Napoleon's naval problems.

Nevertheless the point la Fumée at the tip of Fouras' small peninsula presumably takes its name from winter spindrift. The position of the town itself, dominating the approaches to the mouth of the Charente and the naval port of Rochefort, has been a defensive base throughout history. The present castle saw action against the Dutch in the 17th century and the English in the 18th while Napoleon's fleet suffered a reverse in the maritime roads in 1805.

Even motor-bikes enjoy a summer's outing!

Catching oysters and mussels.

Today all is peaceful on the three surrounding beaches and among the cafes and restaurants foreigners are welcomed to enjoy the oysters and mussels that are farmed extensively along the coast. One such establishment, at least, opens its gates to paying visitors. Elsewhere, a little further north, there is a nature reserve near the village of Yves with opportunities to view the aquatic bird life. Circled by sea, large and pleasant towns and open country this is not an area where anyone will find difficulty in being entertained.