Labelled as a town of art and history, Rochefort-sur-Mer is a town whose past is inextricably linked with the sea, and which boasts a magnificent historical and cultural heritage. Located in the Marennes-Oléron basin, it was founded in the 17th century. Its Arsenal Maritime, also known as the «Versailles of the Sea», built many ships for the Royal Navy over several centuries.
The Corderie Royale
Among Museums in Rochefort-sur-Mer, the Centre international de la Mer and its Corderie Royale are must-see jewels on your visit to Charente-Maritime. Used to make mooring ropes for sailing warships in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Corderie Royale was created by Louis XIV. It is at the heart of a major naval arsenal. Today, it is a listed building. This great royal factory is also the city's largest historical site, where you can admire some splendid exhibitions.
Renovated in the 1980s, the Corderie Royale is now surrounded by a beautiful park, the Jardin des Retours. This is the perfect place to recharge your batteries amongst the exotic flowers or in the shade of the trees, and to walk along the banks of the river Charente with the whole family during your holiday in France. 4-star campsite in Royan.
The National Maritime Museum in Rochefort-sur-Mer
The Musée de la Marine, located in the Hôtel de Cheusses, is a key player in the cultural life of Rochefort. Here you can discover the world of the arsenal, with models and superb scale models of ships, sculptures, period equipment, etc. You can learn how military plans were drawn up and how sailors lived at the time. The artefacts from the dockyard bear witness to a unique and fascinating history.
The Hermione
A visit to Rochefort-sur-Mer of course also includes a visit to the Hermione. The replica of this frigate, used to help the Americans during the War of Independence in the 18th century, will plunge you into the captivating world of shipbuilding. You'll find out all about the Hermione's voyages, the living conditions on board and her crew, and you'll be able to climb up onto her two decks!
With a single pass, you can visit the Corderie Royale, the Musée de la Marine and the Hermione.
Come quickly discover Rochefort starting from the camping Océan Vacances 47 kilometres away, the ideal place to stay for a holiday to visit the cultural gems of the Rochefort region.