Top 6 activities in La Rochelle

What’s there to do in La Rochelle? The capital of the former province of Aunis, La Rochelle is the most densely populated town in Charente-Maritime. This bodes well for the activities on offer. Its ideal location, at the centre of the Atlantic coast and bordered by the 3 neighbouring islands of Ré, Oléron and Aix.

This island trio offers the town optimum protection, particularly against the strong, cool winds blowing in from the Atlantic. This is a major advantage for water sports and the development of La Rochelle’s port activity.

It’s an invitation to take to the open seas, get a breath of fresh sea air and catch a glimpse of the legendary Fort Boyard!

For all these reasons, you can take full advantage of the benefits of the coastline. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, a family or a group of friends, your stay in La Rochelle promises to be wonderfully lively. More than just activities, you’ll enjoy real experiences, most of them sporting, to share with your nearest and dearest.

What to do in La Rochelle? 6 ideas for activities

La Rochelle attracts holidaymakers looking for relaxation and peace and quiet by the sea. The peace and quiet will obviously be there, but many of the activities will be more sporting: surfing, paddle boarding, adventure courses… You don’t have to be a top sportsman to enjoy them to the full, but make sure you wear comfortable clothing.

1 – Take to the open seas on an ocean getaway

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Category: €€€ / Sensations

Description: When the sea calls you to La Rochelle, you need to listen. Just jump aboard a hire boat for a day at sea. With a fresh breeze on your face and the sun at your back, enjoy a break away from it all with your family or friends. From small unlicensed boats to grandiose sailing yachts, you’ll enjoy a whole new view of La Rochelle and its harbour. Depending on the boat you choose, or on simple request, a skipper will join you for your outing. So what are you waiting for? Come aboard!

2. Take part in a magical Harry Potter escape game

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Category: €€ / Unusual / Cultural

Description: To all the wizards who have travelled to La Rochelle, the magical escape game is about to begin… Get out your wands and smartphones and make your way through the town centre! On your way, solve the riddles of this fantastic scenario, meet some wizards and complete some incredible challenges. Only players worthy of the best wizarding school in the world will make it to the end of the Harry Potter escape game.

Good to know: This unusual activity in La Rochelle is open to everyone, whatever your age. It is, however, an outdoor game whose plot is not directly linked to the town. Although you’ll pass through some of the city’s most attractive spots, it’s not a guided tour.

3. Reach the famous Fort Boyard by catamaran

photo credit shutterstock

Category: €€ / Unusual

Description: The emblematic Fort Boyard needs no introduction, standing proudly and almost miraculously on the Atlantic. Its position is such that you’d almost think it was floating! Set sail for this colossal fortification aboard a catamaran from the port of La Rochelle. This 4-hour cruise will be one of the highlights of your stay on the Nouvelle-Aquitaine coast. The friendly atmosphere and fair winds will also take you as far as the islands of Aix, Ré and Oléron.

Good to know: On this sea outing in La Rochelle, you may even board a maxicatamaran or even a maxivoiler. These majestic boats can carry people to the Ford Boyard. With their greater capacity, these boats offer a range of comfortable facilities and shelter in case of rain.

4. Have the time of your life at Park Aventure Indoor

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Category: €€ / Sporty

Description: Reconnect with your childlike soul in La Rochelle or get together as a family at this sporting adventure park. With challenges, puzzles and an indoor tree climbing course, it’s the perfect place for young and old to let off steam. On site, you’ll have to complete the entire obstacle course to gain access to the treasure.

Good to know: There are several courses to suit all ages and physical abilities. From the age of 10 upwards, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

5. Take a segway tour of the Port des Minimes

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Category: €€ / Sensations

Description: One of the most unusual means of transport in the Port of La Rochelle is the segway. Easy to use, effortless and great fun, you’ll feel as light as air as you discover the most beautiful monuments in the area. Don’t worry about safety: your guide will teach you the basics of driving your Segway. Once you’re in the saddle, all you have to do is follow the guide!

6. Escape on a stand-up paddle

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Category: €€ / Sporty

Description: Rocked by the calm eddies of the Plage des Minimes, your stand-up paddle will take you to discover the magical places of La Rochelle. Along the way, you’ll see the Bout du Monde lighthouse – La Rochelle’s unmissable old port – the Bay of Aytré and many more, depending on your itinerary. Accessible to all, paddling is sporty, fun and environmentally friendly. You can choose from a range of options, from a leisurely stroll to a hike, to make this water-based outing a highlight of your stay in La Rochelle.