Located in the Poitou-Charentes region of southwestern France on the right bank of the Charente River, the town of Rochefort is a charming port on the Atlantic Ocean that owes much of its success to a thriving maritime heritage. The so-called ‘new town’ area dates to the 17th century when the nearby harbor of Brouage dried up and Rochefort was chosen for the site of a new naval base and port. Today it is home to a popular thermal spa as well as The Corderie Royale (royal ropeworks).

Be sure to reserve a rental car for your visit to Rochefort and consider planning a day trip to the nearby Ile de Re, which is a gorgeous island that is connected to the mainland by bridge. Also of interest, the Troglodyte caves are open for exploration and are set into dramatic cliffs at the nearby small fishing port of Meschers. Also of note, the Station de Lagunage is a thriving wildlife area, while the Begonia Greenhouse and Le Jardin de Retors are not to be missed.