Wow. We've just returned from La Rochelle, staying in Villa Verde for 7 nights and it was everything we expected and more. The owners met us on arrival, gave us a lovely welcome pack including a bottle of local bubbly, and explained the basics. The 4 bedrooms, all with ensuites were spotless, beautiful linen and soft furnishings. Lots of space for three teenagers to chill out with wifi. Distance from the town was 10 mins walk and if you hop on one of the new bikes available at the house you're there in no time.
Lots to see and do out and about or just relaxing on the balcony, a great sun trap.
Not sure if small children would be safe as the stairs are wooden spiral and high, glass tables, steep stone steps out the front and back too. The deposit was requested in Euros on the website, however when I asked about taking GBP the owners were understanding and accepted £1000 instead. Having to hand over €1000 and getting it back on the last day of your holidays means a loss on the exchange back home.
A definite must.