Charruyer Park, La Rochelle
Park in La Rochelle
Parc Charruyer is one of the must-see places in La Rochelle for anyone who loves a blend of history, greenery, and gentle city life. Stretching for nearly two kilometres along the western edge of the old town, the park follows the line of former fortifications, creating a rare combination of nature and heritage in the heart of the city. Designed in the English landscape style, its flowing lawns, tree-lined paths, and quiet watercourses offer an atmosphere that feels far removed from the busy Vieux Port, making it a great place to visit on a walking tour of La Rochelle.
The park's origins date back to the late nineteenth century when Adèle Charruyer donated the land for public use, transforming old military grounds into a tranquil haven. Today visitors wander past streams, wooden bridges, and shady groves, soaking in the serenity that has made Parc Charruyer one of the top attractions in La Rochelle for both locals and travellers.
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History and Significance of Parc Charruyer
Parc Charruyer was created between 1887 and 1890, thanks to the philanthropy of Mademoiselle Adèle Charruyer, daughter of shipowner Étienne Charruyer. Her bequest aimed to give La Rochelle a spacious green refuge at a time when urban landscapes were rapidly changing. The park's establishment reflects the town's commitment to expanding public access to open spaces, marking a key moment in its civic development.
The park occupies land once used for defensive purposes, and its position alongside the former ramparts offers insight into the evolution of La Rochelle's urban form. Traces of these old fortifications can still be spotted as you walk, adding a historical depth that complements its natural beauty. Designed in the English landscaped tradition, Parc Charruyer embraced the era's romantic ideals of meandering paths, soft-edged lawns, and water features that encouraged leisurely strolling rather than formal promenade.
Over time the park has grown into a cherished part of community life. Its animal park, wide lawns, and sheltered pathways now serve as a daily escape for residents, while travellers admire how history and nature intertwine so effortlessly. The park stands as a living legacy, revealing how a philanthropic vision reshaped a former military belt into the city’s most generous expanse of greenery.
Things to See and Do in Parc Charruyer
Visitors can enjoy relaxed walks along the leafy paths, following the two small rivers, the Lafond and the Fétilly, as they wind gently through the landscape. These waterways create quiet corners where ducks glide across the surface and sunlight filters through the branches, giving the park a peaceful charm that encourages lingering.
One of the biggest draws is the Charles-Édouard Beltrémieux animal park, a four-hectare zone created in 1950 and home to a mix of domestic and semi-wild species. Families especially appreciate seeing Baudet du Poitou donkeys, Marans chickens, Poitou geese, and deer in spacious enclosures. The animal park makes a pleasant stop for children learning about local breeds and environmental stewardship.
For those who enjoy active exploration, Parc Charruyer offers jogging paths, cycling routes, and shaded spots perfect for picnics. The open lawns and gentle landscapes make it a refreshing counterpoint to the narrow medieval streets nearby, allowing visitors to balance heritage sightseeing with moments of calm. Its long, linear design also makes it ideal for those wanting to experience a quieter side of La Rochelle without straying far from the city centre.
How to Get to Parc Charruyer
Reaching Parc Charruyer is straightforward due to its central location in La Rochelle. The nearest airport is La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport, located a short drive from the city centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to La Rochelle on Booking.com.
Travellers arriving by train will find the park within walking distance of La Rochelle-Ville station, making it simple to incorporate into a day of exploring the old town. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.
If you are driving, the city has multiple car parks near the Vieux Port and the western ramparts, allowing easy access to the park's entrances. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Local buses also connect the wider urban area with stops close to the park, giving visitors several flexible transport options.
Practical Tips on Visiting Parc Charruyer
- Suggested tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the park is long and ideal for extended wandering.
- Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant greenery.
- Entrance fee: Free.
- Opening hours: Open at all hours, as it is a public park.
- Official website: Check the City of La Rochelle’s website for updates.
- How long to spend: One to two hours is enough for a relaxed visit, longer if including the animal park.
- Accessibility: Mostly flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Facilities: Benches, shaded areas, and nearby cafés around the Old Port district.
- Photography tip: Early morning provides the best soft light along the waterways.
- Guided tours: Independent exploration is most common, though some city walking-tours incorporate the park.
- Nearby food options: Numerous eateries and bakeries can be found a short walk away near the Vieux Port.
Where to Stay close to Parc Charruyer
Staying near Parc Charruyer gives you easy access to both the city centre and the calming green spaces of La Rochelle. Options like Hôtel Saint Nicolas offer a peaceful retreat within walking distance of the park and the Old Port. For those wanting contemporary comfort, Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites provides stylish rooms close to the city’s dining and shopping streets. Travellers seeking boutique charm may enjoy Un Hôtel en Ville, known for its intimate atmosphere and convenient location.
Is Parc Charruyer Worth Visiting?
Parc Charruyer is absolutely worth visiting, especially for those wanting a refreshing break from urban sightseeing. Its mix of natural beauty, quiet walkways, and historical traces makes it a wonderful complement to La Rochelle's maritime heritage. Whether you are exploring with family, enjoying the animal park, or simply seeking a serene green corner in the city, this vast park brings a welcome breath of calm to any itinerary.
What Other Travellers Say...
parc animalier at Pl. du 8 Mai in La Rochelle is a leafy, family-friendly park with animals to see, shady spots for picnics, a playground for young children and convenient places to refill water bottles; visitors praise its fairytale-like landscaping and well-cared-for, approachable animals, note its proximity to a beautiful beach, but some feel the enclosures and space could be improved.
FAQs for Visiting Parc Charruyer
Nearby Attractions to Parc Charruyer
- Vieux Port de La Rochelle: The historic harbour lined with cafés, boats, and lively promenades.
- Tour Saint-Nicolas: One of the city's iconic medieval towers guarding the harbour entrance.
- Tour de la Chaîne: A companion tower to Saint-Nicolas offering insight into La Rochelle's maritime defences.
- Parc des Pères: A quiet coastal park ideal for sea views and leisurely walking.
- Aquarium La Rochelle: A major attraction showcasing marine life from the Atlantic and beyond.
The Charruyer Park appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting La Rochelle!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Nearby Attractions
- Tour de la Lanterne (0.3) km
Tower - Porte de la Grosse-Horloge (0.4) km
City Gate - La Rochelle Vieux Port (0.4) km
Port - Tour de la Chaîne (0.5) km
Tower - Rue des Templiers (0.5) km
Historic Site - Tour Saint-Nicolas (0.5) km
Tower - Maison Henri II (0.5) km
Historic Building - Cathédrale Saint-Louis (0.6) km
Cathedral - Hôtel de Ville (0.6) km
Town Hall - Cloître des Dames Blanches (0.7) km
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