La Rochelle

Harbour Highlights

1. La Rochelle, the medieval city
   With its arcade streets, fine renaissance homes and XVIIIth century residences, sober and noble town mansions from shipowners, La Rochelle can boast of a prestigious patrimony.

   
2. Ré island
   On the Ré island, all natural open spaces are classified : vineyards, forests, salt marshes, oyster parks...

   
3. La Roche Courbon castle
   "The sleeping beauty's château". Built in the 15th century, this fortified castle was transformed into a comfortable residence in the 17th century by Jean-Louis de Courbon.

   
4. Saintes & Saintonge area
   The Saintonge area crossed by the River Charente offers some exceptional sightseeing. In Saintes, are some of the finest examples of Romanesque Art : the Abbaye aux Dames, the amphitheatre.

   
5. Cognac city and cognac houses
   Cognac lies on the banks of the river Charente "the most beautiful stream of my kingdom" used to say Henry IV.