Les Minimes

La Rochelle, France

Les Minimes, Port de plaisance des Minimes, is the largest marina in France for pleasure boats. It is located in the city of La Rochelle. Its named is derived from the establishment of a convent of the Frères Minimes in this area during the Middle Ages. There are slips for about 3,500 boats. The whole area has seen intense urban development, with the construction of many residential buildings. The marina offers sailing access to the protected Pertuis d'Antioche and its surrounding islands, such as Île de Ré, Île d'Aix and Île d'Oléron.