La Rochelle

[[file:La Rochelle banner.jpg|1280px|Panoramic picture from the harbour towers of La Rochelle at night}} La rochelle de nuit - Night view of the Harbour Towers of La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a city dating from the 9th century in the department of Charente-Maritime, France. From the 14th to 17th century, it was France's leading port for trade across the Atlantic to Canada and the French West Indies. It's often called "la ville blanche" (the white city) for its limestone buildings: they're handsome in any weather, but brilliant when the sun shines down from a big blue Atlantic sky. The city is centred around the old port, Vieux Port, with three great defensive towers. 3 kilometers south, Les Minimes is a new area built on reclaimed land.

La Rochelle is linked by a bridge to the resort island of Île de Ré, some 30 kilometers long. Other islands are Île d'Aix, Île d'Oleron (usually accessed by road via Rochefort), and the one you've seen on TV, Fort Boyard.

Travel to La Rochelle

Buy a Flight ticket to and from La Rochelle

La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport GPS 46.179167,-1.195278 (IATA Flight Code: LRH) has year-round direct connecting Flights to Paris Orly, Lyon, London Stansted and Southampton. Direct destinations in summer include Ajaccio, Birmingham, Bristol, Charleroi, Dublin, Leeds, London Gatwick, Geneva, Manchester and Porto.

The airport is 5 kilometers west of downtown, close to the bridge across to Île de Ré. Bus #7 runs downtown (Place de Verdun) Monday to Saturday every 30 min, taking 15 mins, fare €1.30. In July and August a bus runs from the airport direct to Île de Ré, at other times you'll have to backtrack via downtown. Taxis can be found immediately outside the terminal building, with the fare to town about €20.

By Rail

TGVs link La Rochelle to Paris Montparnasse every couple of hours, taking 3 hours. Five or six trains a day run south to Bordeaux (2 hr) and north to Nantes (3 hr).

The bus to Île de Ré is run in conjunction with SNCF, ie it's through-ticketed, displayed on departure boards, and timed to connect with the Paris trains.

The train station Gare de La Rochelle GPS: 46.152778,-1.145556 is 500 m south of the town centre, near the aquarium and Maritime Museum. Cars can be rented from agencies opposite the station.

Travel on a Bus in La Rochelle

Flixbus runs once a day to Paris Bercy Seine, 7 hr. They also run to Nantes (2 hr), Bordeaux (2 hours in the dead of night), and Toulouse (6 hr).

Eurolines have an evening coach for Bordeaux, Bayonne, San Sebastian and Bilbao, with connections to Madrid.

The main bus stand for long-distance and local services is Place de Verdun, at the western edge of the old town.

By car

La Rochelle is one of the few large cities in France not directly served by an autoroute. The city can still be easily reached by car, though. From Paris take the A10 until the exit for N11 which will take you La Rochelle. From Bordeaux take the A10 then exit onto A837 then D137.

By cruise ship

Cruise liners occasionally call at La Rochelle, docking at the far end of Viaduc Président Christian Morch, 10 kilometers west of town near the bridge to Île de Ré. Typically these are on week-long cruises of the Bay of Biscay and Channel Islands, with passengers coming ashore for a day-trip to the Dordogne and quick look at the old town. They're not available to book as point-to-point ferries.

How to get around in La Rochelle

GPS 46.1666|-1.1521

La Rochelle can easily be explored by foot or by bicycle. The bike rental service is run by Yelo (a pun on "yellow" and "velo"): you first need to visit their kiosk in Place de Verdun, with ID and credit card for a €150 deposit, to be issued a pass. Short-term rental is €3 for 2 hours, €7 for 5 hours and €12 for 10 hours - these rentals may not be taken to Île de Ré. Longer hires are also easily arranged. There are several pick-up and return stations across the city.

Local buses are also run by Yelo. A single ticket can be purchased on the bus for €1.30 (valid for one transfer within one hour). A 10-unit ticket costs €11, a 24-hour pass is €4.50, a 7-day pass is €12.50. Buy these from Yelo kiosks, eg in Place de Verdun. Just about every bus line will pass at some point through Place de Verdun: one exception is the Friday evening summer service to Île de Ré, which goes direct from the train station.

There's a ferry from Vieux Port to Port des Minimes (hourly, fare €3). Boat trips and ferries run from the Vieux Port to the nearby islands. Boats can circle Fort Boyard but seldom land, as it is in effect a big offshore TV studio, with programms in preparation throughout summer.

What to see in La Rochelle

The Old Port ("Vieux Port")

This is the oldest and most picturesque part of La Rochelle, dominated by its defensive towers. The quayside extends 200 m inland from the port, along Canal Maubec. Most buildings are centuries old and very well maintained. The narrow streets and pale stone buildings make the city feel more Midi than Atlantic.

The Three Towers

If a party of enormous chess pieces came down to the seaside and got tipsy and they would resemble these 14th- and 15th-century towers. Tour de la Chaine and Tour Street Nicholas lean over the narrow harbour entrance: a stout chain was raised between them to keep out trouble (often English). A rampart stretches west to Tour de la Lanterne and the former lighthouse. You can visit the towers daily 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:15 to 17:30 (18:30 during daylight saving). Entry costs €6 per tower, or €9 for all three.

Enter the old city behind the quay via the Gothic great gate and the Tour de la Grosse Horloge. (The tower can't be entered.) A network of old streets encloses the market hall and the Temple Protestant, and the New World Museum. Eventually it opens out onto Place de Verdun, with the Gothic Church of St-Louis.

• Musée du Nouveau Monde - New World Museum - 10 Rue Fleuriau 46.1616, -1.15104 ☎ +33 5 46 41 46 50 Opening Hours: Monday & W-F 10:00-12.30 & 13:45-17:00 (18:00 summer); Saturday Sunday 15:00-18:00 €6, concessions €4 Musée nouveau monde 001 Housed in the old Fleuriau Hotel, depicts La Rochelle's relationship with the Americas, especially Maritime Canada and the French Caribbean.

Les Minimes

Plage des Minimes 0001 - Ocean view from Les Minimes

Port des Minimes is one of the biggest pleasure boat marinas in Europe: mostly yachts not motorboats. Also, visit the nearby beach.

• Musée Maritime - Maritime Museum ,Accueil,131 Place Bernard Moitessier 46.1541, -1.15227 ☎ +33 5 46 28 03 00 Opening Hours: 1 April - 31 Oct daily 10:00-18:30 €9 Musée maritime de La Rochelle 001 Land-side museum plus eight ships (mid-20th century) moored in the Bassin des Chalutiers.

• Aquarium de La Rochelle - La Rochelle Aquarium - Quai Louis Prunier 46.153274, -1.150539 near train station just south of old port ☎ +33 5 46 34 00 00 Opening Hours: Daily April - Jun & September 09:00-20:00, July & Aug 09:00-23:00, October - Mar 10:00-20:00 €16 adults, €12 children; audioguide extra Aquarium de La Rochelle The whole tour takes roughly 2–3 hours to experience and is an excellent activity if the weather outside is poor. Audio devices for various languages are available but all educational notices for each exhibit are also translated into English. There can be very long waiting lines during the summer, but the wait is worth it; the aquarium is beautiful and well-designed. Also, if you wait in the sun with children, think to bring a change of clothes or a towel as there is a fountain in which you will often see kids playing situated right on the side of the waiting line to the aquarium.

Île de Ré

This resort island is accessed along Route D735 via a 2-km-long toll-bridge. The toll to get onto the island is €16 per vehicle in summer and €8 in winter, free on foot or with a bike; there's no return toll. The road runs through La Flotte to the main settlement of Street Martin de Ré, which has a charming port (UNESCO Heritage Site) fortified by Vauban. Most buses terminate here. The road straggles on for another 20 kilometers to Les Portes-en-Ré.

Camping on the island is only permitted at approved sites.

Hotel la Jetée (23 quai Georges Clemenceau) is a 3-star hotel in Street Martin, open year-round. You'll need to email ahead for an access code to drive into the pedestrianised area.

Bistrot du Marin is on Quai Nicolas Baudin on the harbour island; lots of seafood restaurants line the other quays. Do try the waffles of 'La Martiniere' on Quai Poitheviniere.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for La Rochelle

• Stade Rochelais - Les Corsaires; called Atlantique Stade Rochelais until 2016 - Stade Marcel-Deflandre; 27 Avenue du Maréchal Juin 46.158056, -1.178056 2 kilometers west of old town - Stade Rochelais 6594 Rugby union team that plays in France's top flight and the Top 14. They've yet to win the title but have been well-placed, so they qualify for European tournaments. The stadium dates to the 1920s, but has been renovated several times in the last 25 years. It's named for Marcel Deflandre, who was club president in 1940 when rugby league ("rugby-a-treize") was outlawed by the Vichy government, its assets handed over to rugby union clubs, and the union game greatly strengthened in France.

The Market Place

Situated near the Old Port, you can buy fresh products every morning in the central covered Market. On Wednesday and Saturdays (and during most of the summer), you will see all of the streets surrounding the main area covered in stands occupied by local farmers selling their products. You will find dozens of restaurants surrounding this hot spot, and from the market, you can go in direction of the Place de Verdun or the Old Port and will walk by the main shopping streets of La Rochelle.

Les Minimes

The sector of Les Minimes is where you will find most activities that are not specifically targeted to tourists, such as bowling, movie theaters, etc.

Halal Food & Restaurants

Seafood is the specialty in La Rochelle, and there are many excellent restaurants around the Vieux Port. Try the mussels "Charantais" in a creamy white and onion Sauces. For a more traditional meal "A Cote de Chez Fred" offers a variety of local specialties in a comfortable setting.

As an alternative, for budget travellers, some local residents recommend trying sandwiches or Halal Kebab at "Le Rif" restaurant on the "Rue Street Nicolas", not very far away from "A Coté de Chez Fred". They offer some of their specialities like Royal Rif and Royal Fajitas.

If you are in La Rochelle, please try a waffle (with "caramel au beurre sale", salty butter caramel), a crepe/galette de sarasin, some "broye du poitou" (a delicious butter cookie) and some "gache" (a type of brioche). You can also try a "tourteau fromager", which is a baked Cheese cake with a puposefully burned layer on top (that you can eat, but it is okay if you don't) and some delicious "canneles"

• Restaurant Le Cafe Andre | 5 Rue Street Jean de Perot ☎ +33 5 46 41 28 24 - Renowned seafood restaurant in Vieux Port.

• Les Flots 1 Rue de la Chaine ☎ +33 5 46 41 32 51 - Acclaimed seafood restaurant run by Gregory Coutanceau.

La Guignette Head to this local spot for a La Rochelle speciality, white mixed with fruit syrup. Open only in the early evening, this bar is a popular place for students starting a night of partying. The bar is located on Rue St. Nicholas, in an excellent run down and dirty building. A lot of fun, but be careful and the sweet drink will quickly get you very drunk!

Le Général Humbert Be sure to stop by this Irish pub on Rue St. Nicholas. A comfortable place to meet with friends, or watch some football or rugby. The owners are extremely friendly, and most of the staff speak English. Occasional live music.

La Calhute Just off of Rue St. Nicholas is this small and comfortable nightspot. Great music is always playing, and drink are not to expensive. Try a pitcher of "Jacqueline" mixed with tonic and fruit syrup. It comes in many flavours, try peach or melon.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to La Rochelle

La Rochelle - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to La Rochelle, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for La Rochelle. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in La Rochelle and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to La Rochelle. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to La Rochelle. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inLa Rochelle: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in La Rochelle.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in La Rochelle: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in La Rochelle, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in La Rochelle.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in La Rochelle, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in La Rochelle, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within La Rochelle and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in La Rochelle, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in La Rochelle, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of La Rochelle without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for La Rochelle is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring La Rochelle.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group La Rochelle is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in La Rochelle, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group La Rochelle Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in La Rochelle

eHalal Group La Rochelle is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in La Rochelle. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in La Rochelle.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in La Rochelle ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within La Rochelle. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in La Rochelle, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in La Rochelle are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Lots of mid-range hotels centrally in and around the Vieux Port. There's more out on the island, Île de Ré; you'll need your own transport there as the bus is painfully slow.

• Ibis Styles La Rochelle Centre 5 Rue Leonce Vieljeux ☎ +33 5 46 50 68 68 Good central budget choice

• Hotel La Marine 30 quai Duperre ☎ +33 5 46 50 51 63 Smart boutique hotel, very central in Vieux Port

• Hotel La Monnaie Art & Spa 3 Rue de la Monnaie ☎ +33 5 46 50 65 65 August facade, modern within, and very central.

• Altica Rue de Scierie Bus 10, 7 or 19 from centre Budget choice 1 kilometers South of centre, near the university.

• Pierre et Vacances La Rochelle Centre - 14 Quai de Marans 1 kilometers east of centre ☎ +33 5 46 50 10 10 2-storey residence with indoor, heated swimming swimmingpool in the "Bastion Saint Nicolas" neighborhood. It is 2.5 kilometers from the beach and 200 m from the shops. Much in need of repair, and trash piled around exterior.

• Hostel La Rochelle - Auberge de Jeunesse - Ave de Minimes by marina South of centre ☎ +33 5 46 44 43 11 The only youth hostel in town.

Travel Next

Best use the bus or train to reach Cognac, or sort out in advance who'll be driving back. Royan is an important seaside resort. South of there lies Bordeaux and their country, enclosing that city and the Gironde estuary.

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