"We have located our new courses just outside La Rochelle because of the excellent communications with England, great facilities for holiday-makers, and the option of attending cultural and sporting events such as “Francofolies” (folk, rock, pop and rap festival in July) and “Grand Pavois” (sailing and boat show in September)."
Here is some general information about the town, sporting activities, cultural activities and location:
THE TOWN
Châtelaillon-Plage is a small seaside resort about 10 miles south of La Rochelle. It is a quiet little town out of season, but even then there are sufficient shops, restaurants and banks for all your normal needs. Every Tuesday and Friday morning there is a local market in addition to a covered market open every day.
Another big attraction is the well-equipped and modern spa/thalassotherapy institute with its own relaxation pool, hammam, jacuzz and range of relaxing treatments. What an excellent way to chill out!
During the high season, thousands of holiday-makers flock to this small town and give it a lively atmosphere. It's long sandy beach, beach clubs, bars, casino and restaurants are full of tourists enjoying the great facilities. There also free open-air concerts, shows, competitions, exhibitions, dances and firework displays all through July and August. Children are particularly well catered for, with their own programme of puppet shows, games and concerts.
SPORTING ACTIVITIES
Châtelaillon-Plage, and the surrounding area, is a paradise for cyclists. There seem to be cycle paths and lanes everywhere. It is very easy to cycle along the coast to the neighbouring towns of La Rochelle and Rochefort or inland to explore the wild-life and country-side.
There is also a good range of sporting facilities at Châtelaillon-Plage for sailing, swimming, fishing, windsurfing, tennis, volley ball, beach football etc.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Some annual events:
- March: International Kite Festival, Châtelaillon-Plage
- May: Châtelaillon-Plage Flower Festival
- June: International Film Festival, La Rochelle
- July: Festival for Children, Châtelaillon-Plage
- July: Francofolies (folk, rock, pop and rap festival), La Rochelle
- August: Oyster Festival, Châtelaillon-Plage
- September: Grand Pavois (sailing and boat show), La Rochelle
- October: Jazz Between the Two Towers, La Rochelle
TRAVELLING TO CHATELAILLON
BY PLANE: It takes just a couple of hours with Ryanair from Stansted or Flybe from Southampton. Châtelaillon-Plage is just a 15 minute taxi journey from La Rochelle airport.
BY TRAIN: The fast rail link (TGV) takes about 3 hours from Paris. Châtelaillon-Plage is just a 15 minute taxi journey from La Rochelle station.
BY ROAD: The quickest way to go is via St Malo. Take the overnight ferry with Brittany Ferries from Portsmouth, have your breakfast on the boat and drive via Rennes and Nantes to Châtelaillon-Plage. It takes only around 4 hours from St Malo ferry port, so you can have lunch in Châtelaillon-Plage. It's motorway nearly all the way.
For more information, please see the Châtelaillon-Plage website (in French). There is a useful map and lots of colourful photos.