Royan, in Charente-Maritime, is a seaside resort on the Gironde estuary, renowned for its beaches, including the Grande Conche, and its architecture. Largely destroyed by the bombings of 1945, it was rebuilt in a modernist style, with emblematic buildings such as the concrete church of Notre-Dame de Royan and the central market with its bold concrete shell roof.
The town holds the Ville d’art et d’histoire label and is recognised for its 20th-century heritage. The seafront, Belle Époque seaside villas, the Pontaillac cove and walks along the Côte de Beauté invite strolling, while the port is the departure point for boats to the Cordouan lighthouse and the Île d’Aix.
About an hour from La Rochelle, Royan combines with Talmont-sur-Gironde, Meschers and the Coubre forest. It offers an elegant seaside alternative, accessible all year.