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Fisherman in Oléron near La Rochelle
Photo: Fabian Charaffi/ Maison de la France

Beside the sea

PeterP

Situated on the Atlantic coast, about four hours' drive from the Channel, it has been described by the Rough Guide as "the most attractive and unspoilt seaside town in France".

To see why, sit outside any of the countless cafe-bars by the harbour and watch the world go by. Or explore the many attractions of the town - the most famous of which are its twin towers guarding the harbour entrance.

It provides something for everyone, whether you want to sit outside bars and watch people, eat in a wide range of restaurants, wander around the old streets, visit museums and other attractions, walk in the parks - or even sit on the beach!

Set around its Old Port, with its famous twin towers, are a host of delights: port-side bars and restaurants; arcaded streets in the old town; parks and gardens; historical buildings such as the Hotel de Ville, Maison Henri II or the Palais de Justice – as well as of course the Tours de la Chaine, la Lanterne and St Nicolas; attractions such as the Aquarium; museums of all sorts, including Musee des Beaux-Arts, Musee du Nouveau Monde and the Musee Maritime ... and La Rochelle beach to relax on after a walk though the seafront parks.

Tourist Board website: www.larochelle-tourisme.com

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