Just a 600-metre walk from the train station, 100 metres from the tourist office and 300 metres from the aquarium and the three iconic towers for which the port of La Rochelle is so famous, this hotel is ideally located for a - nearly - carbon-free getaway.
Created out of the former Hotel Terminus and its extension into a former rope factory, this hotel has two distinct sections at street level. To the left of reception is the industrial vintage-style bar and lounge with beautiful monochrome photos of the old Hotel Terminus, the rope factory and La Rochelle.
To the right, an enormous light-filled atrium with two levels of orange metal balconies gives every impression of being onboard a cruise liner. In my immaculately white bedroom with its grey wooden floor and green curtains, the impression continues, because it reminds me of nothing more than a cruise cabin. Simple and functional, it boasts a full-width rectangular picture window, a bathroom and generous walk-in shower in the same decorative style, and a super-comfortable double bed. The much appreciated final touch is a work surface with a kettle and a choice of teas and coffees. At night, it’s silent thanks to perfect sound insulation: a fantastic and restful end to a hectic day of exploration.
Before venturing out for La Rochelle by night, a visit to the Etabli bar lounge is essential. Dom will amaze your eyes and taste buds with cocktails he clearly loves making, and serves with the added zest of his Italian accent. Simplemente perfetto.
The plus-points: easy to explore the local area by bike. 24-hour check-in. Air conditioning and free WiFi. On-site ticket office for the cinema, aquarium, harbour towers, etc.
Information
Hôtel La Fabrique
7-9-11 rue de la Fabrique – 17000 La Rochelle
Tel.: +33 (0)5 46 41 45 00
www.hotellafabrique.com
Rooms range from €69 to €260 per night, depending on category: standard or luxury, double, triple or quadruple (from €104 to €215). Buffet breakfast: 11€
For Émilie, holidays rhyme with luxury and well-being. You can count on her to show you the best high-end hotels and spas in the region. From a candlelit dinner overlooking the ocean to a small boutique hotel, from wine therapy spa treatments to exclusive rooftop terraces, if you're looking for sophistication in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, here's the girl to turn to.