ROCHEFORT

Do you have a passion for adventure, a fascination with technique or a love for French history? If so, Rochefort is for you. 

In the 18th century, Louis XIV entrusted his advisor Colbert with finding a site on the Atlantic coast that could host an arsenal. Colbert went on to transform Rochefort into a major ship-building center. Just 15 km from an estuary, it was designed to protect the Atlantic coast from any English peril.

In fact Rochefort is packed with surprises. See the rare collections of the Ecole de Médecine Navale, founded in 1722 to train surgeons for duty on warships. Many of the 19th century doctors involved in scientific journeys of discovery also studied here. See recreations of old shops at the Musée des Commerces d’Autrefois; visit the Hôtel Hèbre de Saint-Clément for the lowdown on local art and history; and wander the Begonia Greenhouse to enjoy more than 1500 colourful varieties. First discovered on an expedition from Rochefort, the flower was named after Michel Bégon, responsible for overseeing the town’s development in the 17th century.

Just as Rochefort was a major departure point for explorers, scientists and naturalists across the centuries, so today is it a gateway to the wider area. Take a boat up the picturesque Charente river or head out to sea on a cruise around Fort Boyard and Ile d’Aix. Explore the nature reserves around the estuary or head to the nearby seaside resort of Fouras.

Hospitable and full of flowers, human-scaled and blessed with a pleasant climate, Rochefort provides an impression of serenity and tranquility that visitors savor.

On some streets, palm trees render the town more joyous and yet coherent in terms of its historical standing.

Have you ever heard about the movie Les Demoiselles de Rochefort (The Young Girls of Rochefort) with Catherine Deneuve? Discover now the town where the action takes place!