The French Atlantic Coast's famous spirits come from meticulous preparation combined with a little innovation. Cognac's brandies are wine double-distilled, and proudly bear the name of their city, while the capital city of Bordeaux's vineyards produce some of the most expensive and sought-after vintages in the world.

The city of Poitiers is home to several important places of worship, including the Eglise Notre-Dame-la-Grande, constructed in the 11th century, and the Cathedral St-Pierre, built on the orders of Henry II of England. Modern regional attractions include La Rochelle's Aquarium, a state-of-the-art facility with habitats for several varieties of sealife. Bordeaux's Grand Theatre is considered to be among the most beautiful 18th-century buildings in Europe, and many established theatre and arts companies continue to offer performances here. The sunny city of Royan is known for its pale, sandy beach, La Grande Conche, where a line of striped tents is both colourful, as well as practical.