La Rochelle (photo below left), which is approx 50min drive, is one of the prettiest harbour towns in France. It has beautiful architecture, ancient arcades and harbour restaurants. Ile de Re, which is known in this area as 'The White Island', is a beautiful island to visit and has many restaurants and shops. You can drive along the Island and visit the many small towns. This is a haven for cyclists or walkers.
Puy de Fou - take yourself back in time at this park which has a medieval village and offers a great day out for the whole family with superb falconry displays, jousting tournaments, gladiators in the arena, son et lumiere and many other spectacular sights, with 1000 actors and evening entertainments.