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Royan
Royan is located on the western coast of France, in the Charente-Maritime department, to the northern side of the Gironde estuary.
In the early decades of the 20th century Royan was a popular seaside resort. Some fascinating architectural houses from this period can be seen at Pontaillac.
Most of the original town centre was destroyed in 1945 during WWII bombardments (later shown to be unnecessary and with a terrible cost - up to 3,000 civilians were killed during the attack on the town that no longer contained any Germans). As a result, the city we can visit today has been built during the course of the last 50 years - with some successes, and some less successful additions.
The first monument that you will notice is the Royan Church of Notre-Dame. A tall construction that towers over the town and is resolutely modern (in a 1950's way) you will either love its tall concrete lines...or hate them. Whichever it is be sure to take a look inside where the theme is continued.
Another style of 1950's church can be seen at the Church Notre-Dame de l'Assomption. There are also a couple of original churches in Royan - including the much restored Church of Saint-Pierre.
But perhaps you don't come to Royan for the churches! Undoubtedly the big attraction here for most visitors is the proximity to very pleasant beaches, sandy and gently sloping so perfect for children.
The promenade along Royan seafront is also very pleasant, with gardens and trees planted along the route, and low-rise apartment blocks and shops lining the back of the seafront. Full credit to whever kept the buildings to two stories in height.
If you like gardens, be sure to head to the extensive 'Gardens of the World' at the north of the town, for a chance to see all types of garden - from Japanese to Mediterranean, carefully recreated.
Royan itself has a lively centre, with plenty of shops, cafes and restaurants. You are also unlikely to miss another 'modernist' design in Royan - the Central Market - with a roof that to me at least resembles some kind of giant seashell. Not necessarily a beautiful structure, but a great place to get your fresh fruit and fish.
The other big highlight is the harbour - quite substantial in size and housing a great number of pleasure craft, as well as an active fishing fleet. You can take boat trips along the coast from the harbour, or just enjoy the atmosphere.
Incidentally for me the most impressive modern building in Royan was the Palace of Congress, built in 1957 in a sort of 'bauhaus meets prefab' box design. Well I like it!
Nearby
South of Royan at Meschers you can visit the Grottes de Régulus, a substantial troglodyte settlement - some slightly curious 'period settings and re-enactments' don't detract from the attractive setting on the Gironde estuary.
Royan: tourist information, map, travel plans and gites
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Map of Royan, France |
Places to visit - Royan
Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Royan.
Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Royan are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)
- Brouage 17th century fortifications at 26 km
- La Palmyre zoo and seaside village at 17 km
- Mornac-sur-Seudre Most beautiful village at 10 km
- Talmont Most beautiful village at 16 km
- See also Royan (version Francais)
Tourist Classifications for Royan
- Town is "Ville Fleurie category 4" (ie good attention to gardens and flowers)
- approved Station Classée - resort paying particular attention to facilities for tourism
Information and photos
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