For the gourmands
It is difficult to leave the Charente-Maritime without wanting to bring back some regional products in your suitcase. Some of them will easily slip in, allowing you to succumb to a greediness access once back home. The department does not lack sweet specialties! If many families claim the conception of the Charentaise cake, your only concern will be to choose its taste: plain, with angelica, filled with chocolate, with pear... The other delicacy that you will bring back as a gift (unless you keep it for yourself!) is the broken wood. The recipe of this candy is as authentic as it is secret, but its taste is inimitable. As fine as sweet, it will wake up your taste buds. If you spend a few days in La Rochelle, don't leave without having some cobblestones in your bag. Don't worry, there's no need to dig them out of the rue de l'Escale, just drop by a famous chocolate shop. These little squares of gianduja with caramelized hazelnuts and fleur de sel promise moments of comfort.
Other regional specialties are ideal for transporting, such as fleur de sel from the island of Ré - which will enhance your dishes -, jams such as those from Le Clocher in Ars-en-Ré, or honey for a fruity, sweet breakfast. If you have room in your trunk, slip in a box of potatoes from the island of Ré. Their taste is simply inimitable! You may even be tempted to bring back a basket of oysters!
When it comes to drinks, there is no lack of choice! Local beers are a must and will have a place in your souvenir basket. Charente-Maritime has a multitude of breweries: on the two islands of Ré and Oléron, in Aytré, Nieul-sur-Mer and even at the University! Of course, you will also take the opportunity to bring back a bottle of Cognac and Pineau, two alcohols that make the department famous. You can also find quality Charentais wines.
We take care of ourselves!
In Charente-Maritime, we take care of ourselves! If sea bathing is still as beneficial as ever, you can also visit the thalassotherapy centers, all located near the ocean. Among the gifts to offer yourself, think of the handmade soaps made with quality products such as shea butter or donkey milk. Colorful and natural, they will quickly become indispensable in the bathroom! You can also treat yourself at home. You can trust the brand Léa Nature. Based in La Rochelle, it offers products that promise moments of well-being. It is also the case of two brands of care "Eau thermale de Jonzac" and "La source eau thermale de Jonzac" which will take care of your skin.
Leisure gifts
Before leaving the department, give yourself a souvenir by buying one of the many handcrafted creations. In La Rochelle, enter the Farol store to buy an exceptional knife or opt for the bags and accessories of the Matlama store. Marina Richer hijacks marine canvas and oyster trays to make unique and practical objects! Children are not forgotten and will gladly adopt the star stuffed animal of the island of Ré: the donkey in panties.
If you want to keep a link with the ocean, you will be spoilt for choice. A driftwood object, a model of a sailboat, a figurine of the Chassiron lighthouse, a placemat representing Fort Boyard, a pencil holder in the shape of a boot... Everyone will choose according to their tastes and their wallet!
Last but not least, a jewel. A visit to the island of Aix and you will be tempted to buy a pearly pendant, in Oleron, you will succumb to the creations of Sophie Brassens. In La Rochelle, Royan or Oleron, don't hesitate to visit the "Retour de plage" stores. The ideal opportunity to indulge yourself with handmade jewelry: necklace, bracelet, earrings, but also key rings are waiting for you.
Have the style
Your stay may have made you want to change your clothing habits. In Charente-Maritime, we love the sea and we celebrate it by wearing the inevitable marinière. In case of rain, wear a yellow raincoat and the famous rubber boots. A timeless item! The department has several clothing brands that will allow you to leave with a nice souvenir. In Nieul-sur-Mer, the brand 17 Very Ouest offers a line of 100% local clothes, original, practical and comfortable. In Royan, another brand honors the department: Phare Ouest 17. Created in 2012 by Amaury Baron, its objective is to reflect the happiness of the Charentais! And you just have to put on a sweater or a T-shirt to be won over. In addition, the brand contributes to the respect of the environment by making sustainable clothing, limiting transport and choosing organic cotton or organic ink. Surfers, chefs... many are the Charentais-Maritimes to wear these clothes!
For the home
A host of home accessories can be found in souvenir stores and flea markets in La Rochelle. As in other departments, you can take home a bowl with your name on it, napkin rings and mugs in the colors of the island of Ré. You can also find paintings representing characters and seascapes to never forget your last vacation.
To feel at home, nothing beats a pair of charentaises! If these slippers are made in the neighboring department, you can easily find them in shoe stores. Once on your feet, you will feel a real sense of relief. A must-have after work!
Finally, if you want to add a marine touch to your home, don't miss the Esprit Voiles store. Located in a charming street, a stone's throw from the Old Port of La Rochelle, the place is dedicated to making bags, accessories and decoration out of marine canvas. Not only is the fabric water-repellent, but it also does not fade in the sun. A great idea to decorate your home with colorful napkins, magazine holders or saucers.
