Visit Rochefort
In search of a an original, authentic destination for your next vacation ? Visit Rochefort, nestled between La Rochelle and Royan along the Charente, invites you to discover its treasures. A city of art and history, Rochefort charms with its exceptional heritagewith its rich maritime and military past, its gentle way of lifeThe region offers a wide range of attractions, mouth-watering gastronomic specialities and a range of activities to suit all tastes.
Whether your passion is history, nature, culture or simply relaxation, Rochefort promises moments of wonder and entertainment. This article is your guide to exploring Rochefort's must-see sights, and offers practical advice for a memorable stay.
Follow the guide!
Rochefort: a city of history and heritage
Rochefort grew out of the ambitions of Louis XIV and Colbert, who wanted to establish a major naval arsenal on the Charente to compete with the great European maritime powers. Rochefort became the heart of French shipbuilding for over two centuries, giving life to legendary vessels such as theHermionethe frigate that took La Fayette to America.
Today, Rochefort has preserved a exceptional heritagereflecting its illustrious past. Here are a few emblematic sites not to be missed during your visit to Rochefort.
The Arsenal de la Marine and the Corderie Royale
In the historic heart of Rochefort, the Arsenal de la Marine was the main place where warships were designed, built and repaired. Now transformed into a museum dedicated to the sea, the Arsenal offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities.
Don't miss the Corderie Royalean imposing building 374 metres longdedicated to the manufacture of ship's ropes. Explore the secrets of ropemaking, the techniques used by ropemakers and the evolution of their methods. The Corderie Royale also houses a temporary exhibition ofHicham Berradaan artist who creates ephemeral works inspired by the metamorphosis of materials.
The Hermione, frigate of freedom
L'Hermione is the exact replica of the 18th-century frigate that carried La Fayette to America in 1780, playing a key role in the fight for American independence. Rebuilt in Rochefort between 1997 and 2014 by a dedicated team of carpenters, blacksmiths, riggers, sailmakers and passionate volunteers, l'Hermione has already completed several significant voyages, including an Atlantic crossing in 2015 to celebrate La Fayette's expedition.
You can visit the Hermione, currently in dry dock in Anglet, in the port of Bayonne, for restoration work, from February 4, 2023. Discover her fascinating history, her construction, life on board and her adventures.
The National Maritime Museum
The Musée national de la Marine in Rochefort is one of the most important naval museums in France. Housed in the Hôtel de Cheusses, Rochefort's oldest manor house, it was once the residence of naval commanders.
This museum houses a precious collection of models, paintings, tools, costumes, weapons and sculptures reflecting the golden age of the French navy. Among the exhibits are the model of the Thétis, a frigate launched in 1782, the Emperor's canoe, a gift to Rochefort from Napoleon III, and the Barracuda nuclear attack submarine, the current flagship of the French fleet. The museum also offers the chance to discover "Pierre Loti and the Navy"A temporary exhibition dedicated to the life and military career of the writer and traveler, born in Rochefort in 1850.
Rochefort's architectural wonders
Rochefort extends far beyond its famous arsenal and impressive ships. The town boasts a architectural heritage reflecting its rich history and cultural influence.
As you explore Rochefort, you'll be invited to contemplate unique buildings that will transport you back in time. Let's discover a few must-see monuments of Rochefort.
The Transbordeur Bridge - a singular industrial architecture
Unique in France, the Transbordeur Bridgebuilt between 1898 and 1900 by engineer Ferdinand Arnodin, is the last railway in operation in France. It was designed to link the two banks of the Charente without hindering navigation.
With its two pylons rising to 66.5 meters and connected by a 175.5-meter-long beam, a suspension gondola ensures the passage of pedestrians, bicycles and motorcycles in just 75 seconds. The bridge, classified historical monument in 1976, is a masterpiece of engineering, offering spectacular views of the river and the city.
The Théâtre de la Coupe d'Or - an 18th-century gem
Located at 101 rue de la République, the Théâtre de la Coupe d'Or is the cultural heart of Rochefort. Built in 1772 to designs by Pierre-Alexandre Vignon and opened to the public in 1776, this municipal theater is a rare example of an 18th-century Italian-style theater.
With its horseshoe-shaped auditorium, three levels of dressing rooms, richly decorated ceiling and historic stage curtain, it is a living testimony to the history of the cultural heritage of the city. Restored in 1994, the theater now offers a wide range of live performances and a unique insight into its history and architecture.
Les Halles de Rochefort and Place Colbert
Les Halles de Rochefort are the town's vibrant economic and social center, a symbol of meeting and exchange. Built in granite and schist for the pillars, with a wooden framework, they are U-shaped and open outwards.
They liven up the town on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings with a market featuring fresh local produce. Located on the Place ColbertThe Place Colbert, a large area surrounded by 18th-century buildings, adjoins the site made famous by Jacques Demy's film "Les Demoiselles de Rochefort". Place Colbert, with its fountain, café terraces and thriving cultural life, remains a must-see.
Cinéma Rochefort: culture and the big screen in the heart of the city
Visit cinéma Apollo Ciné 8 is the place to be for all lovers of cinema in Rochefort. Located in the city center, this modern multiplex offers a wide selection of films: new releases, arthouse films, VO, documentaries and screenings for young audiences. It also hosts cultural events such as festivals and previews. Accessible and friendly, the venue plays an active role in the cultural life of Rochefort. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a screening at the Rochefort cinema is a great way to round off your discovery of this city with its rich cinematic heritage.
Read our article on Rochefort cinema, it's over here!
Les Demoiselles de Rochefort: a French cult musical
Released in 1967, Les Demoiselles de Rochefort is one of the director's masterpieces Jacques Demyknown for his poetic, colorful and deeply musical universe. After the success of Cherbourg UmbrellasDemy continues his collaboration with the composer Michel Legrand to create this musical comedy full of joy, dance and love.
A story of sisters, love and chance
The story takes place in Rocheforta port town in the Charente-Maritime region of France. We follow the adventures of Delphine and Solange Garniera pair of 25-year-old twins played by Catherine Deneuve and his real sister, Françoise Dorléac. Delphine is a dance teacher, Solange a music teacher. Both dream of love and an artistic life far from their small town.
Throughout the film, they meet some whimsical characters: Maxence (Jacques Perrin), a sailor-poet in search of the ideal love, Andy Miller (Gene Kelly), a charming American musician, or Étienne and Billtwo dreamy showmen.
Fate, encounters and coincidences weave a light and romantic plot, where the protagonists all seek to fill a void in their lives. lack of love or artistic recognition.
An explosion of color and music
The most striking thing about Les Demoiselles de Rochefortis its palette of pastel colors and lively, its aesthetic inspired by 1950s Hollywood musicals, and its dynamic choreography.
The city of Rochefort is transformed into a veritable open-air theater. Inhabitants dance in the streets, passers-by sing, and anything seems possible in this universe where the music is a universal language. Michel Legrand signed an unforgettable soundtrack, with songs like "Nous sommes deux sœurs jumelles", "Chanson des jumelles" and "Chanson d'un jour d'été".
An international cast
For this film, Jacques Demy brought together a exceptional cast. In addition to the two Deneuve-Dorléac sisters, we find Gene Kellya true icon of American musical cinema, and Danielle Darrieuxin the role of their mother, Yvonne. The presence of international actors contributes to theuniversality of this work, which celebrates cinema, dance and love in all its forms.
A vibrant tribute to cinema
Les Demoiselles de Rochefort is also a tribute to american musicalsbut with a French touch, full of poetry and melancholy. The film is both light and deep, festive and nostalgic, and remains a classic of French cinema.
Colorful, joyful and eternal, Les Demoiselles de Rochefort continues to seduce generations of viewers with its freshness and romanticism. It is the perfect embodiment of the daydream that Jacques Demy wanted to offer audiences: a world where art, music and love dance hand in hand.
Nature and relaxation getaways around Rochefort
Rochefortin the heart of the Charente-Maritime region, is the perfect starting point for exploring the natural beauty of the region. Whether your passion is gardens, flora and fauna, or picturesque islands, the area around Rochefort offers a wide range of experiences to recharge your batteries and marvel at. Discover our suggestions for must-see outings.
Jardins de Compostelle and Parc de la Marine
Just 15 km from Rochefort, in Trizay, you'll find the Gardens of CompostelaThis 2-hectare floral paradise was designed in 1998 by landscape architect Jean-François Galinet. Inspired by a Hispano-Moorish style, the garden offers a diversity of landscapes, punctuated by ponds and fountains, housing over 300 plant varieties. Admire a vibrant collection of roses, irises, peonies, hydrangeas, agapanthus, sage, lavender and much more.
This enchanting garden is open daily, from 10am to 7pm, from May to September, with an entrance fee of 6 euros for adults, and free admission for children under 12.
Visit Parc de la MarineLocated in Rochefort itself along the Charente river, the park occupies 4 hectares on the site of the former naval arsenal. Renovated in 2007, this park invites you to relax, play, picnic and stroll, with its sculptures, fountains, pontoons and aquatic plants. Access is free every day, offering magnificent views of Rochefort landmarks such as the Corderie Royale, the Pont Transbordeur and the Hermione.
Moëze-Oléron nature reserve
Between Ile d'Oléron and the mainland, 25 km from Rochefort, lies the Moëze-Oléron nature reserve. It extends over 6,400 hectares, protecting unique coastal environments, wet meadows and salt meadows, essential for the wintering and migration of numerous bird species. With over 270 observable species, including 69 breeding birds, this reserve is a sanctuary for birdwatchers. Visit with your family, all year round, for an immersion in nature, with signposted trails, guided tours and exhibitions, for a fee of 4 euros per adult and free for under-18s.
Excursion to Ile d'Aix and Ile Madame
L'Aix Islandis a small island in south-west France, part of the Charente archipelago, located 3.1 km from Pointe de la Fumée. Accessible only by boat, this car-free island offers a unique experience of tranquillity and discovery. Explore its rich historical and natural heritage, its beaches and secret coves, on foot, by bike or in a horse-drawn carriage. It's a haven of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the world.
L'Ile Madamelocated 2 km from Port-des-Barques, is a wild, uninhabited island, accessible via the Passe aux Boeufs at low tide. Ideal for walking, fishing or cycling, it also offers a historical spectacle with its fort casemates, the Fort de la Rade, the Croix aux Galets, and more. Ile Madame is a natural setting offering exceptional views of Fort Boyard and the Charente coastline.
Conclusion
Rochefort is an enchanting city for fans ofhistoryof cultureof nature and relaxation. When you come to Rochefort, you'll be immersed in a unique remarkable heritageThe town's history is marked by the navy, Napoleon and the writer Pierre Loti. You'll be amazed by the exceptional monumentssuch as the Transbordeur Bridgethe Théâtre de la Coupe d'Oror the Hermione.
Visit Charente-Maritime offers you its natural treasures stroll through the Gardens of Compostelaobserve the birds in the Moëze-Oléron reserveor escape to the islands ofAix and Ms.. Rochefort is the perfect destination for an authentic vacation that's out of the ordinary. Don't delay, plan your visit to Rochefort nowand benefit from the many tips and practical information offered by Rochefort Océan tourist office.
FAQ
Where to go for a walk in Rochefort?
In Rochefort, here are two ideas for outings according to your preferences :
- For fans ofhistory and culture, l'Arsenal des Mers is not to be missed. This cultural complex brings together museums and attractions to celebrate Rochefort's maritime heritage. Among other things, you'll discover the replica of theHermionethe Corderie Royalethe Musée de la Marine and the Transporter Bridge.
- If you're looking for nature and tranquility, l'Aix Island is a car-free paradise. With its magnificent beaches, hiking trails and views of Fort Boyard, the island promises a change of scenery and serenity. Access is by boat from Rochefort or Fouras.
Is Rochefort a beautiful town?
Rochefort's charm is undeniable beauty and its historical heritage. A town steeped in history, Rochefort boasts a rich heritage of marine architecture, including the arsenal, the Corderie Royale and the Hermione frigate. Rochefort also boasts a privileged geographical location, stretching between the Charente river and the Atlantic Ocean, offering a multitude of walks and outdoor activities.
Why Rochefort-sur-mer?
Chosen by Louis XIV for his naval arsenal, Rochefort-sur-Mer was to reinforce French naval power. The cityrich in art and history, has preserved its naval heritage, as witnessed by the Corderie Royale, the Hermione and the Musée de l'Aéronautique Navale.
Where to swim in Rochefort sur Mer?
In Rochefort sur Mer, several swimming spots are available to you:
- The Fouras-les-Bains peninsula has five beaches, including the Plage Nord, from which you can admire the Bay of Yves, Châtelaillon and La Rochelle.
- Ile d'Aix, famous for its fine sandy beaches, offers the Plage de l'Anse de la Croix, a beach with lifeguards in summer, facing the famous Fort Boyard.
