We're thinking of the Charentes area of France as alternative to going way down south. Think there'll be enough attractions etc for kids, but just a bit worried that for us the scenery in that part might be a bit flat and boring and not as nice as the lovely landscapes of Provence etc. Can't really get a feel for it from websites/guidebooks - has anyone been, perhaps near St Jean d'Angely, or somewhere nearish to La Rochelle... is it beautiful or a bit ordinary?