Market day in La Rochelle is not to be missed. We will start the day marveling at the tempting produce displayed in the bustling food hall and surrounding street market stalls. Next, we will drive inland across the graceful Charentais countryside to the magnificent Chateau and Gardens of La Roche Courbon. A medieval fortress after the 100 Years' War in the 17th Century, the building was converted into a pleasure palace surrounded by formal French gardens. It was neglected from the 19th century until the current owner's grandfather started a restoration campaign. The splendid gardens have been acknowledged with the "Remarkable Garden" award.
Our next destination is the historic town of Rochefort, where the Sun King and his minister Colbert established the national arsenal in 1666. We will stop for lunch at The Marydiane, whose menu features regional specialties made with seasonal produce from the finest local suppliers.
Our afternoon visit is to the Begonia d’Or atelier, whose director is France’s only Maître d’art of golden embroidery. The artisans create custom pieces for top Parisian couture, luxury accessory, and interior design brands, restore period furnishings and clothing, transmit their knowledge through workshops, and design their own embroidered items sold in the boutique. Rochefort’s legacy of gold embroidery traces back to the embellishment of military uniforms.
Before returning to La Rochelle, we'll stroll through the park and garden that leads to the old naval port on the Charente River, where the famous frigate Hermione is docked next to the former Corderie Royale.
Dinner in La Rochelle is at the cozy Bistro, La Kase.
