La Rochelle, France
This delightfully unspoiled seaside town has been an important port since Eleanor of Aquitaine, granted its first charter in 1199. The heart of the 17th- and 18th-century city center lies between the harbor and the place de Verdun, just a ten minute walk away. Several 14th-century towers remain, including two which once anchored the opposite ends of a large chain that was slung across the harbor entrance at night to keep out intruders. Today, the harbor provides sanctuary to more yachts than working boats. Stroll along the Rue du Palais, lined with shops in well-preserved 18th-century slate and half-timbered houses, or perhaps enjoy a coffee and pastry in the Belle Epoque Cafe de la Paix. Among the numerous diversions are several interesting museums, including the Musee des Automates, featuring over 300 mechanical puppets, as well as one of the largest aquariums in France.
La Rochelle is also your gateway to the Charentes and Cognac - home, of course, to one of the world's great
spirits.
Points of Interest
- Cognac Camus
- Bicentenary Cave
- Saintes
- La Roche Courbon
- St. Martin de Re
- Ars-en-Re
- Abbaye des Chateliers
- Coulon
Ile de Re
- Abbaye des Chateliers
- St. Martin de Re
- Ars-en-Re
Explore enchanting Ile de Re, a picturesque island off the coast of La Rochelle. Walk along the narrow, cobblestone lanes of St. Martin de Re, lined with whitewashed 18th century buildings. Visit a fisherman's village surrounded by salt marshes and view the ruins of a 12th century abbey.
Moderate Activity
$99.95
Walking Tour of La Rochelle
Put on your walking shoes for a tour of historic La Rochelle. Visit the old harbor and view its two famous towers. Marvel at the sights along the city's main shopping street Rue du Palais including the Hotel De Ville.
Moderate Activity
$129.95
Local Connections: La Rochelle Highlights & Tasting at Château La Péraudière with the Normandin-Mercier Family
Discover the highlights of La Rochelle by motorcoach and on a guided walking tour. Visit the Chateau de La Péraudière, where the Normandin-Mercier family will welcome you into the distillery facilities, the Cognac aging cellars and the tasting room.
Moderate Activity
$144.95
Saintes & La Roche Courbon
- Saintes
- La Roche Courbon
Walk through the pages of history with guided tours of two mesmerizing sites. First, stroll through the ancient city of Saintes. See the majestic Cathedral of Saint Pierre where John Calvin preached and the Arch of Germanicus. Then, travel to La Roche Courbon for a tour of the "Sleeping Beauty" castle.
Strenuous Activity
$144.95
Tour of Saintes, Château de Cognac & Tasting
- Saintes
- Coulon
Picture a day filled with adventures in and around the quaint medieval village of Cognac. First, enjoy a walking tour of Saintes, a charming hamlet whose roots date back to the Roman Empire. Then, hold history in a glass on a guided tour and tasting in the Royal Chateau de Cognac, at the renowned Baron Otard distillery.
Strenuous Activity
$164.95
Highlights & Bordeaux on Your Own
Designed for passengers who prefer to see some sights from the motorcoach with little or no walking involved. See the highlights of Bordeaux and then have free time to discover it on your own.
Moderate Activity
$174.95
Bordeaux On your Own & Cite du Vin (Bordeaux Wine Museum)
Designed for independent travelers, explore Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on your own. Visit La Cité du Vin (Bordeaux Wine Museum), where wine comes to life through a self-guided experience. Lunch on your own.
Moderate Activity
$209.95
Cognac Camus - A Discovery Exclusive
- Cognac Camus
- Bicentenary Cave
Discover the secrets of making Cognac with a visit to Camus Cognac. Tour the caves and cellars where barrels full of Cognac are stored to develop its unique flavor profile. Then, learn to create - and enjoy - your own special blend, which will be bottled and labeled for you.
Moderate Activity
$549.95