Photo of Royan

About Royan

Situated at the mouth of the Gironde estuary in Charente-Maritime, Royan is a popular seaside resort town. It has gained recognition as the capital of the Côte de Beauté, and is a favourite amongst French families, keen sailors and international visitors. The town’s accommodation options are increasingly wide-ranging, with private villas, B&Bs and swish boutiques hotels for various tastes and budgets. Selected for their top amenities, location and style, our pick of the best places to stay in Royan promise a beach holiday to remember!

Royan’s five beaches have become iconic. Separated by dramatic limestone cliffs, these sandy stretches welcome sunbathers, sandcastle-builders and ice cream-lovers of all ages during the summer months. Venture to the marina for boat trips, fishing excursions or to admire the almost 1,000 boats moored on the edge of the Atlantic. Don’t miss watching local fishermen perched in stilted cabins on the famed Pont du Diable, a rocky outcrop with astonishing views.

Back in town, visit the unusual Notre Dame de Royan, taste local specialities at the central market, and delve into the town’s French Revolutionary history — and its destruction during WWII — with a guided walking tour. Nature lovers will adore the Parc de L’Estuaire, which teems with wildlife. Return to one of the best places to stay in Royan for magical beach sunsets.

The Best Places to Stay in Royan

For a Seaside Stay

  • Résidence de Rohan is a stately seaside mansion with individually designed contemporary-classic rooms, an inviting swimming pool and easy access to Nauzan Beach. Enjoy big breakfasts and hire bicycles to explore the town. For families or couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to La Rochelle Airport, just an hour by car or bus from Royan. Alternatively, hop aboard a high-speed train from Paris; you'll be in Royan in around five hours.
  • The Charente-Maritime area is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Visit Royan and the Atlantic Coast during the summer for the warmest weather (around 22-26°C), although this is the busiest time of year. For fewer crowds, travel in the late spring or early autumn.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Royan

Best Hotels in Royan

  • La Villa Ouest Royan (Charente Maritime) 26 rooms from AU$135

    Charming  -  Comfortable rooms are authentic in style, with earth-inspired colours, contemporary decor and modern bathrooms
    Local exploring  -  Situated in a quintessential French seaside town, visit the many beaches, local markets and summer festivals
    Sights nearby  -  The coastline is filled with beauty spots, like the caves of Meschers sur Gironde and lighthouses of Cordouan and La Coubre
    Great walks  -  Walking and hiking trails and paths nearby, hike in the forest of Coubre and walk on Devil's Bridge
    Air conditioningSpaGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A simple hotel and spa in a charming seaside town, just moments from the beach. Rooms are light and contemporary, some with private terrace and others ideal for small families. No restaurant as such but a Salon de The for teas/coffees and homemade cakes and pastries. A lovely laid back seaside spot. See More

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  • Residence de Rohan Royan (Vaux sur Mer) 16 rooms from AU$155

    Active Holiday  -  Various activities such as golf, wind-surfing and hiking can be done in close proximity to the hotel
    Beach Life  -  Located just a short walk from the beautiful Nauzan beach
    Great walks  -  Take long coastal walks on the beautiful swathes of golden sand
    Swimming Pool  -  Heated outdoor pool
    Swimming PoolGardenPet friendlyParking

    This stately seaside mansion is ideally located, close to the stunning Nauzan beach. The rooms have a contemporary classic feel and all are light and individually styled. With an impressive outdoor pool and sumptuous continental breakfasts, this hotel is a beach house to brag about. See More

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