La Rochelle is known as La Ville Blanche (the White City) due to the limestone fortress and facades that protects the entrance to the entrance to La Rochelle port. This was one of the most prominent ports in France from the 14th to 17th centuries and the early French settlers of Canada departed from this port. Île de Ré is located 10 km from La Rochelle city and is a popular tourist destination with beaches and iconic salt fields.