La Rochelle, the city by the sea
La Rochelle is located on the western coast of France.
As you can imagine I couldn’t wait to be back by the sea again.
The city dates back to the medieval period. By the 11th century, it was a prominent port city, thanks to its strategic position on the Atlantic Ocean. During the 12th and 13th centuries, La Rochelle flourished as a centre for maritime trade, particularly in wine, salt, and wool.
Its prosperity attracted the attention of English royalty, and it briefly came under English control in 1152 as part of the dowry of Eleanor of Aquitaine.
La Rochelle’s old town, with its medieval towers and fortifications, gives an insight into its past. The Vieux Port (Old Port), guarded by the iconic Towers of La Rochelle, was once a gateway to the New World during the age of exploration. Today, there is a lively marina, and the city has a vibrant and yet chilled vibe. Definitely worth a visit.
We found a lovely park up right by the beach and on the outskirts of La Rochelle. As we arrived early evening we had a walk around and ate in the local seafood restaurant.
Mussel’s definitely seemed to be a local dish here with lots of variations. The ones I had were nice but I really wanted the traditional white wine and garlic sauce!
In the morning I was back in the sea. To me its like coming home. The lakes are great but you can’t beat the sea.
We then cycled into La Rochelle. We had a wander around and stopped for lunch. More mussels but again not the ones I was hoping for.
St Nicholas Tower along with Lantern Tower and Chain Tower are the three medieval towers guarding the port in La Rochelle. In 1879 the French government classified it as Monument historique.
After a lovely day we cycled back to our park up and stayed another night before moving on. Here’s the sunset at our park up
Nantes
After La Rochelle we drove to Nantes. On the way I forgot my keys in a supermarket where we stopped to buy food and I didn’t realise until an hour later! Yes it did mean we had to drive an hour back to get them. Luckily someone had handed them in.
By the time we arrived in Nantes we decided just to stay at a park up by The Loire River, surrounded by walks. It was a lovely calm and peaceful spot.
In the morning we moved to an aire in Nantes and cycled into the city
Historically, Nantes was a significant port city and a key player in the Atlantic slave trade during the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, the city is known for its dynamic urban revitalization and cultural renaissance.
A major tourist attraction is the Château des Ducs de Bretagne also known as Dukes of Brittany, a stunning castle built at the end of the 15th century by François II and his daughter, Anne of Btittany .
Today it houses The Nantes History Museum detailing the city’s history.
Nantes is also famous for its creative spirit, showcased in Les Machines de l’île, a unique attraction featuring giant mechanical animals, including a rideable, life-sized elephant, inspired by the works of Jules Verne, who was born in Nantes. The city also boasts vibrant neighborhoods like Bouffay, with its medieval streets and lively atmosphere, perfect for exploring local cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.
Saumar
The following day we left Nantes and headed to Saumar still in the Loire Valley in Western France
It is famous for its stunning château, the Château de Saumur, which overlooks the Loire River and dates back to the 10th century. It was built as a fortress to defend the region against Viking invasions. The château has served various purposes over the centuries, including beng used as a royal residence, a prison, and even a military academy.
The château’s architecture is a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles, with its dramatic towers it looks very gothic. It’s strategic location made it an important defense point throughout French history.
Today, the château is a popular tourist destination and houses the Musée de Saumur, which showcases collections of decorative arts, tapestries, and equestrian artefacts.
There is an entrance fee to go inside at the time I believe it was €9 for adults and €6.50 for children and students.
I actually visited the chateau on my own as Dee was tired. I decided not to go inside
The city is also known for its wine production, particularly Saumur wines, including sparkling varieties like Saumur Brut.
Saumur is a centre for equestrianism, housing the prestigious Cadre Noir, a French riding academy that specializes in classical dressage.
We stayed 1 more night in Saumur before moving on to Le Mont St Michel which is where our next post will start. We hope to see you there .
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Our Life on the Road 
What another fabulous place you and Dee have visited. Very impressed.
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La Rochelle was a lovely place . Hope to go back at some point x
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