We are once again going to be driving through France and have made plans and booked hotels except for 4 nights/3 days. We would like recommendations for towns, sights, etc. between Beaune and Royan (where we'll be visiting friends). We would prefer one base from which to explore, although we could do 2 nights/2nights. Thanks in advance for recommendations.
k

What about somewhere like Loches in the Loire valley...

Poitiers (worthwhile Romanesque church) to which a day trip could be done to Saint Savin and Angles-sur-Anglin

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mksfca/...76890499/show/

There's also Angoulême, but I am not familiar with that area except that west of it there are some great Romanesque churches (Aulnay and Surgères)

Sorry I'm late replying. Thanks!

How about 2-3 nights in Lyon and 2-1 nights in Figeac?

Thanks ira - will look at those options.

Royan is close to La Rochelle and Ile de Re.
Ile de Re is very nice - not sure if you have time in 2 days (I mean you probably need to dedicate a day and with so many things to see...) - but the best way to visit Ile de Re is by bike - you can bike in few hours from one end to the other. Very pleasant. Plus Saint Martin de Ré the main city on the island is listed in the UNESCO's world heritage.
La Rochelle is also interesting and even Rochefort with the Corderie.
And do not forget to visit the Cordouan Lighthouse - just in front of Royan.

Check this out:
http://southweststory.com/la-rochell...st-attractions

Carla

Thanks, Carla -- sounds interesting!