Local Area
There is a small port 300 metres down the hill in the village of Les Monards, with two excellent restaurants open all year. Bakeries are in the next village, Arces, a 5-minute drive, open 7/7, also selling some deli goods and fresh oysters. Daily fish/vegetable markets in Meschers, 10 minutes away. Big supermarket in Cozes 15 minutes open 7/7.
St Seurin d'Uzet
Pretty port, good general grocer: bread, fresh veg, dairy, charcoal and of course, oysters.
Talmont sur Gironde
Designated "One of the Prettiest Villages in France", Talmont is a 12th century 'closed' village, its imposing Romanesque church perched on a promontory in the Gironde estuary. Many arts, crafts and gift shops plus some excellent bars and restaurants.
Le Fa
Recently discovered significant Roman port complex, excavations ongoing. Guided tours with English script. Good visitor centre.
Arces
Two bakeries, a bar and a hairdresser. Lovely old Romanesque church.
Cozes
Busy medieval market town, 10 minutes' drive from the cottage with all the essential shopping - newsagents, pharmacy, hairdressers, laundry, bank, post office, bars, supermarket and covered swimming pool. A country market is held every Wednesday and Saturday in the ancient wooden covered hall, 'Les Halles' which was built in the 18th century on 14th century foundations. Fortnightly night markets during the summer.
Mortagne sur Gironde
Split between the village on the clifftop with delightful views over the Gironde, and the old port below with an excellent variety of bars, restaurants and water sports.
Meschers
Has a variety of sandy beaches and cliffs, with troglodyte caves, and a working port offering river excursions. Many restaurants, a great beach bar with decent live music. Daily fresh fish and veg market.
St Georges de Didonne
Traditional French resort town. Long, safe, sandy beach with French national sailing club at north end - windsurfing, kayaking, land yachts, Hobi-cats and small sailing boats for hire and instruction. Beach Mickey Club, trampolines etc. Promenade, cycle/pedalo hire, parking next to beach. Easy access. Shopping, restaurants
Royan
