Rendez-vous in La Rochelle, the Atlantic Riviera
Great developments have emerged over the last years : extension of the commercial port, improvement in roads and rail networks (the TGV), more congress facilities, a multidisciplinary university, the multi-media library “Michel Crépeau”, La Rochelle’s population has increased up to 80 000 inhabitants over recent years.
La Rochelle: the sea above all
Trade, cruises, yachting, fishing… La Rochelle is the inevitable place to go on the Atlantic coast. The four ports make it one of the most important French harbour city in terms of economy and tourism.
Architectural heritage
With its arcade streets, half-timbered medieval houses covered with slates, fine renaissance homes and XVIII'th century residences, sober and noble town mansions from shipowners, La Rochelle can boast of a prestigious patrimony which has been preserved and highlighted through the years.
Great events
Many events unique in France with a national or international standing take place here in La Rochelle: the Sunny Side of the Doc (documentary film festival), the International Film Festival, the Francofolies (music festival), the Fiction TV Festival, the Grand Pavois, the “JAZZ entre les 2 Tours” jazz festival, the Automn Rallye, the Marathon… Nature and ecology Oceanic or Mediterranean-style, well-ordered or simply informal, La Rochelle’s 350 ha of parks and gardens invite one for a stroll or a rest.
Atmosphere
The successful union of boutiques and historic centre, the market’s colours, the old port and its terraces, good tables and a rich, eclectic night life: that’s what makes La Rochelle’s atmosphere unique.
A business destination
La Rochelle is an ideal setting for combining business and leisure. Conferences, seminars, conventions and meetings benefit from good amenities.La Rochelle is a town with a prestigious past but is decisively looking into the future. Capital refractory to royal authority, city of liberty and tolerance; over the centuries, La Rochelle acquired a reputation of an elegant and powerful city.