tours de france la rochelle

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Visitez les trois tours de La Rochelle, vestiges des fortifications maritimes médiévales.

Exposition temporaire

De bâtir, nos coeurs se sont perdus.

Du 26 avril au 9 juin 2024

Exposition en cours

Événement(s) à la une

Des histoires à nouer, le fin mot de l'histoire...des tours de la rochelle , les incontournables, la tour de la chaîne : la tour qui a perdu son toit.

Incontournable

article Temps de Lecture | 5 min

La tour de la Lanterne : un phare, une prison et de l'art

La tour saint-nicolas : donjon urbain ou tour de pise française , un panorama unique sur la ville et l'océan.

article Temps de Lecture | 2 min

Les graffitis de la tour de la Lanterne

Patrimoine et art contemporain à la tour de la lanterne, notre actualité, profitez du patrimoine rochelais avec le billet jumelé, boutique en ligne, la rochelle : des origines à nos jours : du ixe siècle au xxie siècle bd.

Petit à petit

Les tours de La Rochelle

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Le Port et les Tours de la Rochelle

Stylo bic 4 couleurs tours de la rochelle, notre programme d'abonnement passion monuments.

Châteaux, abbayes, villas, sites archéologiques, grottes préhistoriques… Pendant 1 an et à partir de 45 € seulement, accédez en illimité à plus de 80 monuments d’exception dans toute la France, en solo ou en duo avec l’invité de votre choix !

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Incontournables : les 3 Tours à La Rochelle

Classées Monuments Historiques depuis 1879

La tour saint-nicolas .

Une légende raconte que la tour St-Nicolas a été construite par la fée Mélusine. Alors qu’elle volait au-dessus de La Rochelle avec les pierres d’un château détruit, son tablier se déchira. Les pierres en tombant les unes sur les autres auraient formé la tour Saint-Nicolas…

Cette tour dont la date de construction n’est attestée par aucun document historique, constitue avec la tour de la Chaîne, une porte d’entrée du Vieux Port de La Rochelle. Elle a rempli pendant des siècles la fonction de verrou défensif du front de mer de la ville. Véritable « donjon urbain » et demeure palatiale tournée vers l’océan, cet édifice militaire symbolise la puissance et la richesse de La Rochelle.

La tour achevée en 1376 et haute de 38 mètres, est bâtie sur de longs pieux de chêne enfoncés dans la vase et calés par des pierres. Mais durant sa construction la tour s’enfonce dans le sol instable et penche vers le Nord-Est. Elle est alors renforcée et à partir du 2ème étage, elle retrouve son aplomb. On aperçoit encore aujourd’hui ce léger déséquilibre.

La Tour de la Chaîne

Après l’achèvement de la tour Saint-Nicolas, la municipalité fait édifier la tour de la Chaîne de 1382 à 1390. Son nom provient de la grosse chaîne en fer qu’il fallait manœuvrer avec un treuil pour permettre l’entrée et la sortie des navires dans le Vieux Port . Le Capitaine de la Tour surveillait ainsi les mouvements des bateaux et percevait les droits et taxes de passage.

En 1472, la tour reçoit la visite du Roi Louis XI. Une légende raconte qu’il aurait gravé une inscription sur une vitre de la tour avec le diamant qu’il portait au doigt… 

Alors qu’elle sert de poudrière pendant la Fronde (soulèvement contre la monarchie lors de la minorité de Louis XIV), la Tour explose et reste 300 ans à ciel ouvert. D’importants travaux de restauration ont lieu aux XXème et XXIème siècles avec la reconstruction d’un chemin de ronde crénelé, la création d’une nouvelle toiture puis, la restitution de 2 étages à l’intérieur.

La Tour de la Lanterne

Les origines de la tour de la Lanterne remontent à la fin du XIIème siècle. Située à l’angle de la muraille du quartier St-Jean-du-Pérot, dernier phare médiéval de la côte atlantique, elle servit tout au long de son histoire de phare et de prison.

D’abord résidence du « Désarmeur des nef » chargé de désarmer les navires avant qu’ils n’entrent dans le port, elle est ensuite dotée d’une flèche monumentale et d’une lanterne pour guider les marins. Haute de 55 mètres de haut elle est alors visible de tout le pertuis d’Antioche (détroit entre les îles de Ré, Aix et Oléron ) et participe au « Guet de la mer » pour la surveillance militaire de la côte.

A partir du XVIème siècle la tour sert de prison. On y enferme des prisonniers de guerre capturés en mer, des marins, principalement anglais, hollandais et espagnols. Des protestants au moment de la révocation de l’Edit de Nantes y sont également enfermés ainsi que des insurgés vendéens. En 1822, les « Quatre Sergents » meneurs d’un complot visant à renverser le roi Louis XVIII sont arrêtés à La Rochelle, deux d’entre eux sont emprisonnés dans la tour avant d’être guillotinés à Paris… une histoire qui lui vaudra entres autres le surnom de « Tour des 4 Sergents ».

Visitez les Tours !

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Grimpez jusqu’aux chemins de Ronde

Points de vue exceptionnels

Des terrasses des tours s’offre à vous un panorama remarquable sur la ville et l’océan. Au loin, côté mer, vous apercevrez la balise rouge appelée balise Richelieu et qui marque l’endroit où le Cardinal de Richelieu fit construire la digue lors du Grand Siège.

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Home to a charming harbor and medieval towers explore this Atlantic port city on trips to La Rochelle.

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4 trips match your search criteria

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• 750 - 1000€

La Rochelle Cruise Excursion Bordeaux Wine Tour

La Rochelle Cruise Excursion to Green Venice & Wine Tasting

La Rochelle Cruise Excursion to Cognac Distilleries

La Rochelle Cruise Excursion to Chateau de la Roche Courbon

Learn more about la rochelle, la rochelle travel guide (nouvelle aquitaine, france).

We organize private half day and full day shore excursions from La Rochelle Port of Call. The town also known as the White city because of the luminous limestone facades that glow in the sun. From the 14th to the 17th century, it was the leading port for trade across the Atlantic to Canada and the French West Indies.

Meet your local English speaking guide, as you leave your cruise ship, who is an expert of the region. After going over the itinerary and program of the day with you, board your spacious premium vehicle and begin your private guided tour in the Charente region.

Shore Excursions & Day Trips from La Rochelle

Our La Rochelle Shore Excursions will take you to unique areas such as Marais Poitevin also known as the Green Venice or to magical local islands where some of the most delicious oysters of France are farmed. Follow your driver guide and get close to the local culture and most important sites that can be found in this part of the Atlantic coast.

For those of you with limited time, we also offer fun & informative guided walking tours of La Rochelle with pick up directly at the drop off point of the shuttle.

Reviews from our La Rochelle trips

Robert & peter haas, 23, oct 2023, emily strange, 24, jul 2023, 17, sep 2022, 10, aug 2022, secured payments, easy cancellation, trusted reviews.

Tour de la Lanterne

Top choice in La Rochelle

Easily mistaken for an ornate church spire, the conical 15th-century Tour de la Lanterne is La Rochelle's beauty queen. It was so named because of its role as the harbour's lighthouse (lit by an enormous candle) and is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. It is sometimes referred to as Tour des Quatre Sergents in memory of four local sergeants, two of whom were held here for plotting to overthrow the newly reinstated monarchy before their execution in Paris in 1822.

From the 17th to 19th centuries, the robust cream-stone tower was a prison. Prisoners exercised on the 158 stone steps that spiral up to the lantern, from where stunning city views can be enjoyed today. On the way catch your breath on five different floors: some walls are decorated with nautical or militaristic pictures and English-language graffiti carved by English privateers held here during the 18th century. Don't miss the backgammon board carved in the 19th century by a prisoner into the wooden floorboards in room No 4.

rue sur les Murs

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Aquarium La Rochelle

La Rochelle's state-of-the-art, family-friendly aquarium is home to 12,000 marine animals and 600 different species. Visits begin by descending in a…

Parc Naturel Interrégional du Marais Poitevin

28.36 MILES

Parc Naturel Interrégional du Marais Poitevin is a tranquil bird-filled wetland dubbed the Venise Verte (Green Venice) due to the duckweed that turns its…

Musée Maritime

In a series of boldly coloured, red, blue and yellow canopied hangars at the Bassin à Flot, the Maritime Museum evokes the history of La Rochelle port,…

Phare des Baleines

20.29 MILES

For an overview of the island, follow the crowds to Phare des Baleines, the island's scarlet-tipped, 59m-tall lighthouse on its northwestern tip. Scale…

Clocher Observatoire

10.63 MILES

A hike up the 117 steps inside the bell stone of fortified Église St-Martin rewards with a mighty fine panorama of St-Martin-de-Ré and the coast. The well…

Réserve Naturelle Marais d'Yves

An easy 15km drive south of La Rochelle, this nature reserve runs a free nature centre where you can peer through telescopes to watch some of the 192…

Tour St-Nicolas

The only tower to be decked out like a house, this 37m-high pentagonal stone tower has leaned slightly to one side ever since building was complete in…

Tour de la Chaîne

To protect the harbour at night in times of war, an enormous chain was raised between the two 14th-century stone towers at the harbour entrance to La…

Nearby La Rochelle attractions

1 . Tour de la Chaîne

2 . Tour St-Nicolas

3 . Tour de la Grosse Horloge

The gateway to the old city, Tour de la Grosse Horloge is a steadfast Gothic-style clock tower with a 12th-century base and 18th-century top.

4 . Musée des Automates et Modèles Réduits

This small museum displays 300 automated dolls from the last two centuries, including a near-life-size re-creation of bygone Montmartre in Paris, right…

5 . Aquarium La Rochelle

6 . Musée Maritime

7 . Musée du Nouveau Monde

La Rochelle's role as a departure point for North America is interpreted at this museum, housed in an elegant courtyard-clad mansion built in 1750.

8 . Musée des Beaux-Arts

La Rochelle's Museum of Fine Arts, housed inside a stunning neoclassical building, hosts an impressive collection of 15th- to 20th-century art.

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Les trois tours de la Rochelle : histoire et anecdotes

• Chloé Bidet
• France Bleu La Rochelle

La tour Saint-Nicolas, la tour de la Chaîne et la tour de la Lanterne sont incontournables à La Rochelle, on peut même dire qu'elles sont iconiques. On vous raconte leurs histoires, tour à tour !

Le Vieux-Port de La Rochelle s’est construit à partir du XIIIème siècle, il était le centre des trafics commerciaux et coloniaux, et a donc joué un rôle majeur dans le développement de La Rochelle. Le Vieux-Port avait aussi un rôle défensif et servait à protéger la ville des attaques depuis la mer, d’où la construction de ces tours à des fins de protection et de surveillance.

La tour Saint-Nicolas

La tour Saint-Nicolas est située à l’entrée du Vieux-Port, juste en face de la tour de la Chaîne. Elle est baptisée ainsi, car  Saint-Nicolas est tout simplement le patron des marins. En toute logique, puisque La Rochelle est une ville ouverte sur l’océan. Cette tour a été construite en 1377 et fait plus de 30 mètres de haut, et a servi surtout de maison pour le capitaine du port pendant 6 siècles, une personnalité importante de la ville.

À l’intérieur, on retrouve d’ailleurs les pièces de vie de l’appartement du capitaine avec une cheminée, un espace pour prier, pour travailler, faire sa toilette… Sa mission était de surveiller les allées et venues des bateaux de marchandises (vin, étain, draps…), et travaillait de pair avec le capitaine de la tour de la Chaîne pour veiller à ce que les taxes sur les marchandises soient payées. Cette tour fait partie du système de fortification de la ville qui a servi dans les périodes de conflits entre Français et anglais, catholiques et protestants, ou lors du fameux siège de 1627-1628 où 20 000 hommes de l’armée du Cardinal de Richelieu ceinturent la ville par la mer et la terre. C’est vraiment un témoin vivant de l’histoire de La Rochelle.

Une chaîne pour fermer le Vieux-Port

Juste en face, la tour de la Chaîne complète la Tour Saint-Nicolas pour surveiller les accès au Vieux-Port. Celle-ci a été construite juste après, à la fin du XIVème siècle et sa spécificité tient du fait qu’elle contenait une chaîne qui fermait le Vieux-Port, elle contrôlait totalement l’accès et la sortie des bateaux. À l’intérieur, vivait le capitaine dont le rôle très important était de récolter les taxes des navires, toujours une histoire d’argent ! La tour que l’on voit aujourd’hui a été reconstruite en partie aux XXème et XXIème siècles, car elle a explosé lors des épisodes de la fronde au XVIIe siècle, alors qu’elle servait de poudrière. Détonnant !

La tour de la Lanterne

La troisième tour est un peu plus loin et donne sur un parking aujourd’hui, même si à l’époque, c’était l’océan. Cette tour, c’est la tour de la Lanterne dont les origines remontent au XIIème siècle ! Elle servait de phare pour les bateaux grâce à un lanterneau dans lequel on faisait brûler une flamme pour guider les marins la nuit, et la journée, c’était la grande flèche de la tour, haute de 55m, qui permettait de guider. C’était aussi la résidence du “désarmeur des nefs” qui était chargé de désarmer les navires avant d’entrer dans le port. Et au XVIIème siècle, cette tour va servir de prison pour ceux qui sont capturés lors de la course, les pirates (marins anglais et hollandais), et lors de leur captivité, ils ont pas mal gravé de bateaux sur les murs de la tour, que l’on peut voir encore aujourd’hui. Il faut tout de même monter 160 marches pour y accéder, mais ça vaut le coup et ça fait du sport !

Tous les épisodes

La fabrication des pantoufles charentaises rondinaud à la rochefoucaud (16).

La charentaise Rondinaud a évolué depuis ses débuts comme chausson de confort pour sabotiers jusqu'à devenir un produit d'exportation mondial. Malgré une concurrence sévère et des faillites, la manufacture survit avec une douzaine d'employés, perpétuant un savoir-faire séculaire en 2024.

La COOP Atlantique et son bâtiment art-déco à Saintes

Fondée en 1912, la coopérative La Saintaise devient la Coopérative régionale des Charentes en 1922. Un bâtiment art-déco, conçu en 1927, lui sert de siège et entrepôt.

Une touche de Scandinavie dans les Chais de la maison de cognac Tiffon-Braastadt à Jarnac (16)

Le bâtiment Tiffon à Jarnac, construit entre 1875 et 1880, se distingue par son architecture fonctionnelle de style scandinave et son orientation parallèle à la Charente. Fondée par Médéric Tiffon puis dirigée par Sverre Braastad, la maison produit du cognac et reste gérée par sa descendance.

La Biscuiterie Brossard et les gâteaux de Papi à Saint-Jean-d'Angely (17)

C'est à Saint-Jean d'Angely, en 1931, que Georges Brossard crée sa biscuiterie artisanale d'où sortira plus tard le Savane de Papi Brossard.

L'ancienne usine à papier Lacroix d'Angoulême

C'est dans une abbaye bénédictine d'Angoulème, devenue usine à papier, qu'a été produit le papier à cigarettes Rizla+

L'essor du port de commerce de La Pallice à La Rochelle

Appelé aujourd'hui Port Atlantique, le port de la Pallice à La Rochelle est l'un des principaux ports de commerce de la façade atlantique. De 1861 à nos jours, son histoire est contée par Vincent Bretagnolle.

De moulin à fonderie, l'histoire militaire de Ruelle sur Touvre

La Fonderie de Ruelle sur Touvre, depuis ses origines en 1753 comme forge pour la Marine royale, jusqu'à sa transformation en leader de l'industrie de défense sous le nom de Naval Group.

L'épopée de la laiterie de la Fontaine-des-Veuves à Saint-Pierre de l’Isle

La Laiterie Coopérative de Saint-Pierre-de-l’Isle, fondée en 1889 en Charente-Maritime, a contribué à la réputation du beurre Charentes-Poitou.

Les plus écoutés de France Bleu La Rochelle

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Your itinerary from Bordeaux, to Cognac and La Rochelle

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

From Bordeaux to La Rochelle, get the inside view on Nouvelle Aquitaine with Trainline!

Day 1 and 2: Bordeaux

BORDEAUX, an elegant 18th century city on the Garonne, is classified by UNESCO and world famous for its wines with recognized appellations, like the Medoc, Saint-Emilion, Sauternes or Graves. Stroll along the quays of the Garonne River and discover the port's past. Admire the 18th century architecture and its elegant stone buildings, while enjoying the gastronomic and cultural wealth of the city. Besides its intrinsic beauty, Bordeaux is an ideal starting point for excursions to the nearby wine regions.

To Do: 1) La Cité du Vin : Sometimes defined as the "Lighthouse of Wine Tourism in Bordeaux" or the "Totem of Bordeaux," the City of Wine continues to entrance its visitors with its unusual architecture and fabulous collections. Discover all the riches and diversity of the world's wine in the museum ranked 7th best in the world by National Geographic. La Cité du Vin is a unique cultural facility dedicated to wine as a cultural, universal, and living heritage. The museum offers a spectacular journey around the world, through the ages, in all cultures. Address: Esplanade of Pontac, 134 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux

2) Take in the architecture: Along the quays and streets of Bordeaux rise delicate cathedrals like Saint-André and its la Tour Pey-Berland, as well as sumptuous mansions like the Archiepiscopal and the Rohan Palaces. These wonders are dotted with even older structures, like the Cilhau Gate triumphal arch from the Renaissance and the medieval clockwork of the Grosse Cloche.

3) Le Miroir d'Eau: It is less than 10 years old, but it (almost) overshadows the monumental three century old building that it reflects. Located opposite the Place de la Bourse, between the Quai de la Douane and the Louis XVIII quay, this spectacular work by landscape architect Michel Corajoud alternates extraordinary effects of mirror and fog.

4) The Wine Route: From Bordeaux, there are six wine routes to explore the best of this grape-growing region. To the north-west, there is Medoc and its road of the castles, and to the south Sauternes and the Graves, cradle of the vineyards of Bordeaux. In the north-east you can find the region of Saint-Emilion and its medieval village, then, overlooking the estuary, Blaye and Bourg. And finally, to the east: the great region of Bordeaux-Entre-deux-Mers, the "Bordeaux Tuscany".

Day 3: Gare Saint Jean, Bordeaux to Cognac in 1:30

COGNAC, birthplace of François I, is as rich in history and heritage as it is in distillery. Come and discover the eponymous city of this famous drink, also called "liqueur of the gods." The medieval district of the city stretches from the Saint-Jacques towers, along the river, to the Saint-Léger church. The area contains many surprising buildings, built between the 15th and 18th century, located in narrow cobblestone streets. While the city owes cognac its universal reputation, the liquor, though delicious, is only one lense through which to view the city.

1) The Cognac Houses: each offers specific tours, tastings and experiential workshops. • Hennessy House : For over two centuries, Hennessy has never stopped writing the history of cognac. The House is today the undisputed leader in this market and one of the major players in the world of high-end spirits. • Maison Martell : Under the aegis of the Martell family since 1715, Martell, the oldest of the great cognac houses, uses its know-how to create cognacs that have been famous and appreciated for three centuries.

2)Discover the local gastronomy: Meet the local producers in their farm or workshop, discover the traditions and know-how that are passed down from generation to generation, and enjoy their products (honey, nuts, chocolate, foie gras, caviar, snails ...). The cuisine of Cognac will delight the whole family.

3)Tour the Tours Saint Jacques: The two curving towers, called Saint Jacques Towers or Porte des Ponts, are the most visible remains of what was the medieval fortified enclosure. Facing these towers, a medieval bridge, demolished in 1855, gave access to the other side of the Charente.

4) Cognac Castle : Destroyed in the 12th century and rebuilt in the 15th century, the Château des Valois earned its reputation as the home of a royal family—King Francis I was born there in 1494. Its most amazing features are the Helmet Room, the Tower of Count Jean, and the beautiful vaulted room known as the State Hall. The castle now belongs to Otard Cognac House.

Day 4: Cognac to Rochefort in 1:15

Rochefort, a "ville royale," located at the estuary of the Charente, is a city of art, history, and a love of the sea. The city hides many treasure, including the famed frigate linked with Lafayette, the Hermione.

1) The Hermione : This famous boat is linked to the legend of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, who was on board during his travels to the States during the American Revolution. With dedication and artisinal savoir-faire, the frigate was reconstructed 20 years ago. In 2015, young novice sailors followed Lafayette's transatlantic route along the American East Coast under the command of Yann Cariou. The frigate has since returned to her home port and opens its holds to visitors.

2) The Arsenal : In the seventeenth century, Louis XIV dreamt of reigning supreme on land as well as on the sea—to do this, he needed a place to build and arm his warships. He chose Rochefort and the Charente, installing the royal arsenal. Nestled in the heart of a meander of the Charente river, the Maritime Arsenal of Rochefort, nicknamed the "Versailles of the Sea," is a place of incredible technical innovation in shipbuilding. Between its opening in 1666 and its final closure in 1927, nearly 550 warships were built there!

IF YOU HAVE A LITTLE EXTRA TIME:

3) Stroll in Fouras: a seaside resort at the mouth of the Charente, located between Rochefort and La Rochelle, this peninsula has kept all of its 19th century charm. Sheltered by the islands Oléron, Madame, and Aix with a 360 degree panorama, all five beaches boast beautiful views.

Day 5: Rochefort to La Rochelle in 25 minutes.

LA ROCHELLE and its islands are a city of more than a thousand years old turned towards the future! Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic seafront, the city has transformed its maritime base into a great economic, touristic and cultural asset, while maintaining its unique beauty.

• The Towers of the Old Port: From the Old Port, one can only admire the majestic towers, the guardians of the city. Facing the Atlantic, they've witnessed the power and wealth of La Rochelle through the centuries. These maritime fortifications, built in the Middle Ages and today classified as Historical Monuments, stand out when you visit La Rochelle. On each side of the harbor entrance, the Saint-Nicolas Tower, the highest, and the Tower of the Chain, the further, are connected to it by a wall. Finally, there's the Tower of the Lantern, formerly a lighthouse and prison. • Visit the Ile de Ré: The Bois-Plage-en-Ré located on the South coast of the island is one of the oldest seaside resorts in France. Open to the ocean, the town is proud of the quality of its beaches, awarded the Blue Flag 2015 (a mark of exemplary coastlines). The village is best visited through its winding alleys and streets, pleasantly lined with hollyhocks from May to September.

For more information:

La Cité du Vin Trains to France with Trainline Visit Bordeaux Visit Cognac Visit Rochefort Visit La Rochelle Visit Nouvelle Aquitaine

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Great introduction to la rochelles fascinating culture, free tips only.

Highlights:

3 famous tours of la rochelle, le mail - the 'rochelais' champs elysee, cours des dames, statue of duperré, porte 2 moulins - two mills gate, lookout at fort des dames, restaurant street, the big clock tower, perfect for:, pushed for time.

We understand that you are on your holidays and time is precious so this is a great way to get a quick but sufficient overview of La Rochelle

On a budget?

We understand that holidays can be expensive so if you are on a strict-ish budget then take this tour and you can decide what you think it is worth at the end!

The Free Walking Tour is a great way to get a good introduction introduction to La Rochelle so that you can then go off exploring having got your bearings!

We take a 1.5 hour walk around the Old Port of La Rochelle stopping at some of the key sights and recounting some of the history and anecdotes that make La Rochelle the unique city that it is today.

During the tour you will discover some of La Rochelle’s traditional buildings, squares and parks all while learning about the city’s people, culture and history.

So what are you waiting for?! Click the big red ‘Book here!’ button below to reserve your place or if you still need more convincing, check out what some of our guests have said below about the tour in their reviews on our Tripadvisor page

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* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Shore Excursions

GO GREEN-RENATURATION OF TASDON MARSHES

La rochelle, france, la rochelle & isle de re.

GLIMPSE OF ISLE DE RE

Saintes & cognac.

The Green Venice

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Shore EXCURSIONS

Shore excursions (7).

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Duration 3 hrs

Behold one of the largest environmental projects in France—the renaturation of Tasdon Marshes on the outskirts of La Rochelle. A naturalist guide will show you how the salt marshes have been restored following years of neglect, a proliferation of invasive species and long periods of drought. These unfortunate conditions damaged much of the natural habitat and, as a consequence, wildlife suffered as well. Beginning in 2019, the marshes were reshaped and redesigned with new basins connecting them to the sea for improved water flow. The flora and fauna quickly rebounded, a process that the guide will explain in detail. Hundreds of species of plants and water birds now flourish in Tasdon Marshes, many of which the guide will point out and describe. While meandering about, you may see black swans, blue-winged teals, egrets and glossy ibises. Now restored to their natural state, the marshes have inspired other projects that will rehabilitate the environment.

HIGHLIGHTS • See how a compromised salt marsh was restored to its natural state. • Follow a naturalist through the wetland to fully understand the transformation. • Look for water birds and other wildlife that now thrive in the wetland.

HELPFUL HINTS • Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

• Adult from: € 277,11 EUR
• Child from: € 230,77 EUR

Duration 4 hrs

Revel in a visit to quaint Île de Ré and explore the coastal city of La Rochelle on this approximately two-hour panoramic coach tour with time on your own. Travel to Île de Ré, a picturesque island connected to the mainland by an elegantly constructed, arc-shaped bridge that is nearly two miles long. You’ll delve into the idyllic charm of the island, which includes expansive beaches, maritime pine forests and quintessentially French villages. View the southern coast towns of La Couarde-sur-Mer and Le Bois-Plage, and enjoy time at your leisure to stroll in the beautiful village of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. After departing Île de Ré, experience the historical heart of La Rochelle. Among its many notable sights, admire the Old Port’s three stunning towers, Tour de la Lanterne, Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint-Nicolas. You’ll pass the remarkable Town Hall, the superb Great Clock Tower and the city’s elegant cathedral. From its intimate island villages to its magnificent public buildings, revel in the irresistible allure of the Charentes-Maritimes region.

HIGHLIGHTS • Traverse a feat of engineering, the nearly two-mile-long bridge to scenic Île de Ré. • Drive through marvelous beachfront communities on the pine-tree-blanketed island. • Enjoy time on your own in the dazzling fishing village of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. • Gaze in awe at the three imposing 14th- and 15th-century towers watching over La Rochelle’s port. • View captivating landmarks including La Rochelle Cathedral and the soaring Great Clock Tower.

• Adult from: € 138,09 EUR
• Child from: € 110,29 EUR

Revel in the serenity and natural beauty of the Ile de Ré, a lengthy but narrow island known for its beautiful coastline, succulent oysters and sophisticated capital of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. While crossing the two-mile bridge that links the island with La Rochelle, you will notice that the Ile de Ré is low-lying and wonderfully undeveloped. As you will discover, pine forests, vineyards and salt marshes, especially along the northern shore, are abundant. Even so, the highlight may well be Saint-Martin-de-Ré, which you will explore on a guided walk and on your own. The 17th-century, star-shaped fortification there earned a UNESCO World Heritage site designation and is remarkably preserved because it was never attacked. Many of the other buildings around the harbor are from same time period and have also changed little. While meandering through the atmospheric streets, you might browse the high-end shops and take in the gorgeous views from atop the church’s iconic bell tower.

HIGHLIGHTS • Enjoy a panoramic drive past the salt marshes and vineyards that blanket bucolic Ile de Ré. • See the ramparts of a 17th-century fort that UNESCO deemed a World Heritage site. • Spend free time as you please in the island’s elegant capital, Saint-Martin-de-Ré.

• Adult from: € 128,82 EUR
• Child from: € 82,48 EUR

Duration 8 1/2 hrs

Explore the Roman and medieval treasures of Saintes and the famed Hennessy cellars in storied Cognac. Relish a panoramic drive through La Rochelle before settling in for an approximately one-hour journey to Saintes, during which you’ll enjoy scenic views of verdant vineyards and quaint villages. In Saintes, a captivating town situated on the banks of the Charente River, embark on a panoramic tour that showcases the first-century Roman amphitheater, the stately Triumphal Arch, the 19th-century Abbaye aux Dames and the Romanesque Saint-Eutrope Church, which features a 12th-century crypt. Appreciate time at your leisure to wander in Saintes before proceeding to Cognac, where you’ll stop in a local restaurant for a relaxing lunch. Rejoice in a tour of the eminent Hennessy distillery, where you’ll view the cellars and savor the nuances of fine brandy during a special tasting. Hear your enlightening guide detail the grand traditions of Cognac creation, such as the swan’s-neck-shaped alembic stills used to distill the caramel-hued libation. Raise your glass of Hennessy in a toast to your wonderful day of discovery.

HIGHLIGHTS • Travel along beautiful byways lined with flourishing vineyards and photogenic villages. • Tour the classical and Romanesque landmarks of magnificent Saintes. • Revel in free time to delve further into Saintes’ atmospheric streets and squares. • Experience the birth of Cognac at the Hennessy cellars during a guided tour. • Savor a sampling of sublime Cognac crafted with age-old techniques.

• Child from: € 175,16 EUR

Find serenity along the intertwining waterways and marshes of Green Venice, a haven for nature lovers. You’ll board a touring boat for an approximately one-hour journey inside the marshlands of Poitou-Charentes, affectionally called Green Venice. You’ll understand this appellation as you glide beneath arcing trees on a vibrant emerald carpet created by the shimmering layer of duckweed resting on the water’s surface. Experience the outdoors as it might have appeared three centuries ago, perhaps spotting plovers, swans, snipes, pewits and ashen or crimson herons resting along the banks. In complete tranquility, sail through tunnels of ash trees and poplars past verdant fields and tiny hamlets dotting the fabulous landscape, the chirping of birds and gentle parting of the waters the only sounds breaking the calming silence. You’ll disembark in the diminutive village of Coulon, nestled on the bank of the La Sèvre River and a quiet respite from the bustle of larger towns. Relish time at your leisure to stroll and soak in the quaint ambiance of this utterly enchanting corner of glorious France.

HIGHLIGHTS • Immerse yourself in one of France’s most stirring landscapes, the tranquil waterways known as Green Venice. • Glide on a boat over green-carpeted waters and under the shade of age-old trees. • Seek out an array of birds that include graceful swans and dignified ashen or crimson herons. • Appreciate time on your own to roam the delightfully unspoiled hamlet of Coulon.

• Adult from: € 212,23 EUR
• Child from: € 138,09 EUR

MARENNES & BROUAGE

Duration 5 hrs

Choose the road less traveled and relish an oyster tasting on this journey to the villages of Brouage and Marennes. Relax on a scenic one-hour drive to Brouage, once a port city guarded by a 17th-century fortress that fell into ruin after its harbor silted up and the town suddenly found itself nearly two miles from the sea, deep in the marshes. You’ll discover the area has since been repopulated and the land reclaimed into lush meadows where cattle graze happily. During your approximately one-hour visit, hear wonderful tales held by the city’s ancient walls which tell of Brouage-born Samuel de Champlain, founder of Quebec, and the love story of Marie Mancini and Louise XIV. Travel to captivating Marennes, a magnet for gourmets thanks to the village’s renowned oyster-farming basin. On your visit to a farm specializing in this delicacy, you’ll observe the fascinating methods employed in growing these coveted mollusks. You’ll savor a tasting of six delectable oysters accompanied with bread, butter and quintessentially French white wine as you celebrate the succulent charms of La Belle France.

HIGHLIGHTS • Uncover the fascinating history of Brouage, once a port city that is now inland after the sea receded. • Learn of Brouage’s storied citizens, including Quebec’s founder Samuel de Champlain. • Visit an oyster producer and see how the mouthwatering mollusks are farmed in the foodie paradise of Marennes. • Sample six savory oysters paired with local buttered bread and white wine.

• Adult from: € 175,16 EUR
• Child from: € 119,56 EUR

WALKING TOUR OF LA ROCHELLE

Duration 3 1/2 hrs

Discover the beguiling town of La Rochelle’s picture-postcard harbor, medieval fortifications and pristine Renaissance heritage during this illuminating walking tour. Set off on a scenic drive along La Rochelle’s waterfront, viewing the elegant gardens of Le Mail and two of the Old Port’s magnificent towers, Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint-Nicolas. Learn these astonishing fortified landmarks were erected in the 14th century to safely close off the harbor at night. Begin your guided walking tour of the Old Quarter at the soaring Great Clock Tower, making your way down cobbled streets spanned by medieval arcades that once sheltered 16th-century craftsmen. Marvel at quaint Renaissance half-timbered houses, the splendid 18th-century Hôtel de la Bourse, the Corinthian façade of the Law Courts and the 1555 Henry II House. You’ll revel in the impressive Town Hall, which features a Renaissance lodge in the courtyard and a monumental staircase. After your walking tour, enjoy time at your leisure to stroll the narrow, atmospheric streets. Returning on your coach, you’ll pass a former WWII submarine base and beautiful gardens established on the city’s ancient ramparts, reminders that enthralling La Rochelle’s gifts are countless.

HIGHLIGHTS • Admire the 14th-century fortress-like towers bracketing La Rochelle’s port. • Study the outstanding Great Clock Tower as you embark on a walking tour of the city’s Old Quarter. • Roam evocative arcaded streets lined with Renaissance workshops. • See grand public buildings and half-timbered residences straight from a French fairy tale. • View lovely gardens and a submarine base from WWII during the coach portions of your tour.

• Child from: € 91,75 EUR

*Prices vary by ship and sail date. See Terms & Conditions

NCL makes arrangements for Guests for shore excursions solely for the convenience of the Guest; NCL does not act on behalf of or supervise the parties or persons who own, furnish, or operate such excursions, and the same are provided by independent contractors. NCL assumes no responsibility for, nor guarantees the performance of, any such excursion provider, and Guests acknowledge that NCL shall not be liable for losses or injuries arising from the acts or omissions of such provider.

Participation in activities and excursions may involve physical exertion, and may be potentially hazardous or dangerous. It is the responsibility of each individual to determine whether you are capable of engaging in any activity. Participation in any activity or excursion is at your own risk.

Photographs are for illustration purposes only used to represent the excursion experience and may not accurately depict the excursion, location, or activity indicated.

Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen kann körperlich anstrengend sein und unter Umständen Risiken und Gefahren beinhalten. Jeder einzelne Gast trägt die Verantwortung dafür, einzuschätzen, ob er/sie in der Lage ist, an entsprechenden Aktivitäten teilzunehmen. Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen erfolgt auf eigene Gefahr.

Die Fotos dienen ausschließlich zur Veranschaulichung der Exkursionserfahrung und bilden möglicherweise die entsprechende Exkursion, den Ort oder die Aktivität nicht akkurat ab.

A participação em atividades e excursões pode envolver esforço físico e pode ser perigosa. É sua responsabilidade determinar se você é capaz de participar das atividades. A participação em qualquer atividade ou excursão é por sua conta e risco.

As fotos são apenas para fins ilustrativos, usadas para representar a experiência da excursão e podem não retratar com precisão a localização ou atividade indicada.

アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーには激しい活動を行うものもあり、危険が伴う場合もあります。 内容がご自身に適したものかは各自でご判断ください。 アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーへは、あくまでもご自身の責任でご参加いただきますようお願いいたします。

写真は寄港地観光ツアーの体験を表現するためのもので、実際のツアーや場所、アクティビティとは異なる場合があります。

La partecipazione ad attività ed escursioni potrebbe prevedere sforzi fisici e potrebbe essere potenzialmente rischiosa o pericolosa. È responsabilità di ciascun individuo stabilire se si è in grado di partecipare a qualsiasi attività. La partecipazione a qualunque attività o escursione è a proprio rischio e pericolo.

Le fotografie utilizzate per raffigurare l'escursione sono unicamente a fini illustrativi e potrebbero non rappresentare accuratamente l'escursione, il luogo o l'attività indicata.

La participation aux activités et excursions peut demander un effort physique et peut parfois être potentiellement dangereuse. Il revient à toute personne de déterminer si elle est capable de participer à une activité ou non. La participation à toute activité ou excursion se fait à vos propres risques.

Les photos sont affichées à titre d'illustration uniquement et de représentation de l'expérience et peuvent ne pas représenter l'excursion, le lieu ou l'activité indiqués avec précision.

השתתפות בפעילויות ובסיורים עשויה לכלול מאמץ פיזי, ועלולה להיות מסוכנת. זוהי אחריותו של כל אדם לקבוע האם הוא מסוגל להשתתף בכל פעילות. השתתפות בכל פעילות או סיור היא על אחריותכם בלבד.

תמונות מוצגות לצורך הדגמה בלבד, הן משמשות כדי לייצג את חוויית הסיור ועלולות שלא לתאר במדויק את הסיור, המיקום או הפעילות.

Las fotografías son solo para fines ilustrativos y se utilizan para representar la experiencia de la excursión y es posible que no reflejen con precisión la excursión, el lugar o la actividad indicada.