Sitting bang in the coastal centre of the Bay of Biscay

Sitting bang in the coastal centre of the Bay of Biscay, La Rochelle can count itself among the most picturesque and historically rich spots on the entire Atlantic coast. Much sought-after over the years (from the Huguenots to the invading Germans), it’s bathed in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, creating an unseasonally good climate on a par with far pricier locations on the Med. Must see: Take a boat trip from the nearby Ile-d’Aix to the legendary offshore Fort Boyard, a jaw-dropping stone-built maritime fortress once home to 250 servicemen... and much more recently home to the TV game show of the same name.

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Must eat at:
A Cote de Chez Fred (Next to Fred’s House) is a comfy local haunt offering traditional dishes from the region. We have no idea who Fred is, but he clearly enjoyed what this place had to offer!

Must be there for:
Every May, the city grinds to a halt for its annual Cavalcade – two days of street celebrations, night parades, brass bands and even an appearance by Miss Rochelle.

Well-travelled tips:
For a rewarding short trip off the coast, Ile de Re is a magnet for cyclists, sun-worshippers and food lovers. The little island caters for all three in spades.
If the weather turns, head indoors to the excellent local aquarium, which takes between two and three hours to see property... just enough time for the skies to clear!

Visa:
British citizens do not need a visa to visit France.