Nature-friendly gateway without a car

Eco friendly trip at the estuary of the Charente river and the Naval Dockyard of Rochefort

 Grand Site de France Estuaire de la Charente, Arsenal de Rochefort - a mark of quality

Classified as a Grand Site in 2013, the Estuary of the Charente river and the Naval Dockyard of Rochefort were awarded the Grand Site de France label in July 2020 after many years of hard work. 

To do this, Rochefort Ocean values a very rich historical and cultural heritage and preserves the authentic and natural landscapes of the estuary of the Charente river.

Welcoming you better and making you aware of this wealth is the main objective of this process. This is why we present you Nature friendly getaways without a car !

Leave your car and go explore the Land of Fort Boyard

Who does not want to relax in nature, to escape to the heart of exceptional landscapes, without needing a car ?

“Nature getaway without a car” is a project that shows you that it is easy to explore and discover the many facets of our unique territory, with serenity and without a car.

On foot, by bike, or even by boat... experience the Land of Fort Boyard with beautiful getaways tested out for you by Pierre, an avid eco traveler, that shares his experience of visiting Rochefort Ocean without once using a car !

For three days, Pierre discovered on foot or by bike, what makes Rochefort Ocean unique : a maritime heritage at the heart of an area where the water merges with the earth and flat grounds that provide ideal conditions to explore the territoy by bicycle.

By following the Trails of the Naval Dockyard, he was able to discover the diversity of our coastal landscapes and the richness of our history: the great Naval Dockyard and its network of fortifications, the seaside atmosphere of the peninsula Fouras-les-Bains,the authenticity of the Aix Island and the majesty of the Transporter Bridge.

Discover Pierre's travel log below !

Plan your trip to Rochefort Ocean without car

You too can follow Pierre's good advice and use the PLAN YOUR STAY section to plan your own getaway!

Note: many providers have the Accueil Vélo label, which indicates that they offer a reception adapted to tourists on bicycles.

"Nature getaway without a car" was awarded the Palmes du Tourisme durable 2017 in the "Territories and destinations" category. 

What you "must see" in the Grand Site de France :

On the left bank
Discover the Moëze Oléron Nature Reserve, its museum area and its four interpretation trails.

Visit the Fort de l'Ile Madame, museum space in the old bunkers.

In Rochefort

Visit the School of Naval Medicine. Unique in France, this site offers a trip to the heart of 19th century science. The National Marine Museum has a collection of models, paintings and many other collections which provide the keys to understanding the Naval Dockyard of Rochefort.

Departing from the Corderie Royale, in Rochefort, a cruise company offers a descent of the Charente with an approach of the Fort Boyard and a stopover of several hours on Ile d'Aix. This is ideal to discover in one day "the spirit of Grand Site de France". From the Fort Vauban, you can admire an exceptional panorama of the islands of Aix and Madame. Finally, why not enjoy an oyster or seafood tasting at the Rochefort and Fouras markets?