Give meaning to your stay in La Rochelle

Whether you live in or are just visiting La Rochelle, the proximity to the sea and surrounding nature offers a new perspective on your relationship with the environment. Resident or holidaymaker, you can't ignore it! So leave your car in the parking lot, hop on a bike, and make the right choices!

Become an eco-citizen!

Since the 1970s, La Rochelle has been a pioneer in environmental action. The city’s deep connection with the sea and its interdependence with the surrounding farmland inspire a proactive, committed, and collective approach to sustainability and eco-responsibility.

It doesn't take much - with a few good habits, you’ll discover that it’s possible to experience the city differently, mindfully, and give real meaning to your stay!

La Rochelle, a Carbon-Neutral City by 2040

Since 2021, the city, metropolitan area, universities, ports, and businesses have committed to making La Rochelle the first carbon-neutral city by 2040!
This involves limiting and offsetting carbon emissions through the development of sustainable transport, natural reserves, and innovative projects (such as the Atlantech park in Lagord and the sustainable university campus).
A network of different initiatives has come together to drive this collective goal forward.

Sustainable transport: the true nature of La Rochelle

By bike, by bus, or on the water

Yélo yellow bikes available for self-service on every street corner. Did you know? La Rochelle is the birthplace of the self-service bicycle — launched here in 1974! Everything in the city is designed to make getting around smooth and easy, so you can enjoy a stay that’s good for your body, your mind, and the planet!
Park-and-ride facilities let you park for free and start exploring the beauty of the Old Port and historic stone streets stress-free.
Cycle paths stretch all the way to Aytré, Châtelaillon, Marsilly, and even the Île de Ré.
Take the “Passeur” or sea bus to cross the Old Port or enjoy a mini-cruise to the Port des Minimes.
Want to go further? Hop in a self-service electric car or ride the Yélo bus network to discover every corner of La Rochelle and its surroundings, from Angoulins to Laleu, all the way to the Île de Ré…

Our recommendation

Unlimited transport is included in the La Rochelle Océan Pass: buses, sea buses, the “Passeur,” and regional TER trains - it’s the ultimate transport deal for your stay!
Enjoy unlimited travel to go between all the pass’s attractions and activities and your accommodation.

Discover the La Rochelle Océan Pass

Strolls between sea and greenery

La Rochelle invites you to slow down and explore.
Between sea and greenery, discover the natural beauty of the Delmas and Charruyer parks in the city, or head to Parc des Pères in the Minimes district.
Set off on a cycling adventure along the Vélodyssée, the coastal bike trail that takes you all the way to Rochefort!

Learn, discover, and participate!

Museums and educational centers

Thanks to the Maritime Museum or the Aquarium, dive into the beauty of the marine world.
Exhibitions and immersive experiences take you on a journey through the oceans, while offering key insights into climate change and its impact on marine life.

At the Museum of the New World, you'll discover a trading city that built its wealth through ties with the West Indies and the Americas — sometimes at the cost of human dignity.
A true plea for openness to the world and respect for all cultures.

Museums & visitor sites

Natural areas to explore

Need to recharge in the heart of nature? Just 10 minutes by bike from the harbor, the peaceful Tasdon marsh awaits — a lovely, bucolic spot on the edge of the city.
This preserved natural area is both a birdwatching observatory and a sanctuary. Bird lovers will also enjoy the Yves Nature Reserve at La Rochelle’s doorstep, or simply following the coastal trails — from Port du Plomb to Marsilly, or from Les Minimes to Angoulins!

Why not go a bit further and visit the Maison de la Baie du Marais Poitevin in Esnandes?
There, you’ll uncover the secrets of mussel farming (mytiliculture) and better understand the unique ecosystem of the Marais Poitevin — our very own “Green Venice”!

Preserve and enjoy

La Rochelle is a circular economy hub and sorting waste has been part of life here for over 50 years.
Many local organizations are actively involved in waste preservation, collection, and recycling. It couldn't be easier to do your part!

Shop at Echo-Mer (a nonprofit store): materials are repurposed into practical, everyday items, ideal as meaningful, sustainable souvenirs.

Help keep the beaches clean by placing marine waste left by the tides into the special “tide bins,” where it will be sorted and analyzed.

"The sea starts here..."
Signs all around the city remind you that every piece of litter tossed on the ground could end up in the ocean. So, drop your cigarette butts and trash in the bin — where they truly belong!

Craving fresh products? Head to Paniers de nos campagnes for farm-to-table local goods, a great place to shop for fresh produce or thoughtful souvenirs.

And remember: there’s a season for everything.
From fish to fruits and vegetables and especially seafood! Oysters are best enjoyed from September to April, while local mussels (piling or rope-grown) are only available from June to September.
A delicious way to live in harmony with nature’s rhythm and help protect the environment.