Affiliated to the network since 1987, Rochefort, the chequered city, is an invitation to travel that awaits you just a few kilometres from our campsite in Saint-Palais-sur-Mer.
Rochefort, a town of art and history in a nutshell
A major royal arsenal under Colbert and home port to the Hermione frigate that sailed La Fayette to America in 1780, Rochefort is a Town of Art and History, whose heritage evokes distant voyages, maritime adventures and the prestige of royalty. A multi-faceted destination in the Charente-Maritime department, Rochefort is a renowned spa town, a historic town with many historic sites and monuments to visit, and the departure point for the treasures of the Atlantic: Ile d'Aix, Ile Madame, or the solitary and famous Fort Boyard. It is also the location for the filming of Les Demoiselles de Rochefort.
Rochefort Océan, a town open to the sea
The port of Rochefort is also the starting point for some great boat trips: a visit to the Ile d'Aix is a must! A paradise for nature lovers and unspoilt landscapes, the little island can be explored on foot, by bike or even in a horse-drawn carriage, among the maritime pines and hollyhock-filled paths. You can also visit the museum dedicated to Napoleon, housed in the very house where the emperor stayed before his departure for St Helena. The garden island boasts a rich heritage, including the priory of Saint-Martin, Fort Liédot and the Jamblet battery. In the heart of the village, opposite the church, you can also visit the Maison de la nacre (Mother-of-Pearl House), a tribute to this speciality of the island. Cruises to the Ile d'Aix are also an opportunity to get close to the famous Fort Boyard and hear its unusual history.
The Corderie Royale in Rochefort
Set between land and sea (it is accessed via the Charente), Rochefort was chosen by Colbert to house the Kingdom's largest naval arsenal. The splendid Corderie Royale, now fully renovated, bears witness to this rich past. Take the whole family on a tour of this legendary site, where the sturdy ropes used to be made for warships. Then climb aboard the exact replica of the Hermione and discover its workshops in the dockyard. On the same site, the Musée National de la Marine will tell you all about the history of Rochefort and its maritime vocation. If you want to relax, head for the "accro-mâts", a climbing and aerial adventure area that is unique of its kind, with high masts, vertiginous platforms and ropes stretching skywards.
The Transbordeur Bridge
The Rochefort Transbordeur Bridge, built in 1900 by Ferdinand Arnodin, is a masterpiece of metal architecture, towering 50 metres above the Charente.
Until 1967, it was used to cross the river without hindering navigation.
Today, its suspended gondola carries pedestrians and cyclists between the town of Rochefort and the town of Echillais. Classified as a Historic Monument, this bridge is the last of its kind in France and is aiming to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Maison du Transbordeur, located in Échillais, offers a guided tour of its history.
Les Jardins de la Marine
Rochefort's Jardins de la Marine, located close to the Corderie Royale, offer relaxation and leisure activities for all the family.
The park features a play area for children, surrounded by greenery and shady areas ideal for picnics. The gardens, set in historic surroundings, are perfect for strolling around while enjoying views over the Charente. Sports facilities and footpaths are also part of the Jardins de la Marine infrastructure. It's a place dedicated to conviviality and relaxation.
The Museum of the Former Naval Medical School
The Musée de l'Ancienne École de médecine navale in Rochefort is a unique museum dedicated to the history of maritime medicine. Founded in 1722, this school was the first of its kind in the world.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of medical instruments, anatomical specimens and historical documents. During your visit to the museum, you will discover the medical advances made to treat sailors and explore the classrooms and laboratories of the period.
This must-see museum in Charente-Maritime offers a fascinating insight into the development of naval medicine and the maritime history of Rochefort.
The Théâtre de la Coupe d'Or
The Théâtre de la Coupe d'Or is an architectural gem from the 19th century. Designed by Pierre-Adolphe Amouroux, this Italian-style theatre is remarkable for its elegance and exceptional acoustics.
Restored in 2006, it offers a varied programme ranging from music to theatre and dance. During your visit to Rochefort, you can admire its sumptuous interior, with its wrought-iron balconies and delicate paintings.
The National Maritime Museum
The Musée National de la Marine in Rochefort, housed in the Hôtel de Cheusses, is an emblematic museum dedicated to the history of the French navy. It traces the development of the Rochefort arsenal, founded in 1666, and boasts a rich collection of model ships, navigational instruments and weapons.
One of Charente-Maritime's not-to-be-missed museums, it invites you to immerse yourself in the maritime past, with exhibitions on shipbuilding, life on board and technical innovations. During your visit, you'll also discover themed rooms highlighting various aspects of maritime history.
Other visits to Rochefort sur Mer
You can also discover a rich cultural heritage during your stay at camping Rochefort with these 3 other not-to-be-missed visits:
- The Museum of Art and History, housed in the former Hôtel Hèbre de Saint-Clément, is a reminder of the town's past and its special relationship with overseas France.
- The House of Pierre Loti, writer and naval officer, is an invitation to exoticism and fantasy.
- The Musée des Commerces d'autrefois, housed in a building dating from the 1900s, brings to life the city's rich trading traditions.
You'll also be familiar with the Hermione, which you can visit in Rochefort's Arsenal des mers. You can also take a spa or health treatment, as Rochefort is also a popular spa destination on the Atlantic coast. Nearby, La Rochelle and Châtelaillon Plage are waiting for you, as are numerous visits to the Poitou-Charentes region.
