La Rochelle
Description: La Rochelle gives you a real taste of France, with it’s picturesque harbour and delightful old town. There are many attractions here to make a splendid day out.
Location: Take the N11 from Niort to La Rochelle – on the coast just before you cross to the Ile de Ré (bridge pictured).
General Info: Official website
Our recommendations: See if you can get one of the Velos Jaunes (yellow bikes) for a ride around the town. These can be used free of charge for up to two hours – Take along some identification such as your passport to the Place de Verdun or the Quai Valin.
The area around the harbour offers plenty of cafe’s and restaurants but in our experience the food here is on the average side (even the seafood dishes) and you’re probably paying for the view. Enjoy a stroll and an ice-cream on the harbour front and explore the harbour walls, but head back into the centre of town for better ‘eateries’.
For the children: The town’s aquarium is well worth a visit. It is set in the newer part of the town. Allow half a day for a visit. After the aquarium visit you can cross a small footbridge and take a short water taxi ride to the old town.
Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to the Vendée
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