Discover the Ile de Ré - for nature lovers
Ile de Ré is known for its magnificent fine sand beaches, dunes and clear waters. You will find family beaches in wild coves, the beaches of Conche des Balaines and Gros Jonc are particularly popular with tourists and locals for their vast expanse of sand and their relaxed atmosphere.
Picturesque villages
Ile de Ré has many picturesque villages, with their own charm. Saint-Martin-de-Ré with its fortifications designed by Vauban, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the main historic center of the island. La Flotte, with its cobbled streets and lively port, is also a must. Also discover the secrets of the villages of Couarde-sur-Mer, or even Ars-en-Ré with its bell tower.
Varied activities and discoveries
There is no shortage of activities on the Ile de Ré. Cycling enthusiasts will be happy with the numerous cycle paths available to them which cross the island, offering panoramic views of the ocean and salt marshes. Hiking, kite surfing, sailing and fishing are also popular and appreciated activities. Discovery of an oyster cabin: The Ile de Ré is well known for its quality oysters, so don't hesitate to have a tasting and a visit. All around the Island, the work of the 62 oyster farmers of Ile de Ré is punctuated by the water cycle and the tides to produce 6,000 tonnes of oysters.
Art gallery or designer boutique: The wonderful landscapes and charm of the Ile de Ré inspire many artists who express themselves with their art. Creators of donkey milk soaps, printing, chocolate, jam makers, biscuits… discover the know-how of the island’s artisans!
Visit to a wine cellar: Wine lovers will be able to taste the local specialties which are Pineau des Charentes and Cognac. Visit one of the island's cellars and treat yourself to a tasting (in moderation). With 580 ha of vineyards, nearly 60 winegrowers grouped together under the management of a cooperative cellar offer a range of local Charentais wines, Pineaux and cognac.
Salt farming: The “white gold” of the Island has always been cultivated here: sea salt and the delicate fleur de sel which delicately perfumes the dishes of nearly 90 salt workers who harvest the salt by hand.
Salt maker's shop: In the middle of the marshes, follow a salt worker to discover the different stages of salt making.
Discover the coastline: Explore the foreshores accompanied by a fishing guide on foot, to get to know the Relais coastline better, or set sail aboard a fishing boat or for a diving session.
Culture: live shows, cinema, museum of Art, history and theater... there's something for everyone.
A paradise for foodies
The Ile de Ré is an ideal place to taste local specialties: oysters harvested from the island's natural ponds are a must. Ile de Ré salt, produced in the salt marshes, is also renowned and appreciated for its quality. Many local markets allow you to discover fresh and artisanal products.
Cultural and historical wealth
Places that make up the history of the Island: The 14th century church has been rebuilt several times. You can climb the 117 steps, where you can enjoy a view of the port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, its fortifications, and the neighboring villages.
Châteliers Abbey: Completed in 1156 by Cistercian monks, now classified as a Historic Monument, it was the first place of viticulture and salt production on the island.
The Bell Tower: Built in the 15th century, this one is recognizable due to its black and white color, this emblematic monument of the Île de Ré serves as a landmark for sailors navigating the slits.
Fortifications of Saint-Martin: The fortifications of Saint-Martin-de-Ré are unique in their dimensions: 14 km of ramparts on a semi-circle of 1.5 km. Explore them independently or take part in one of the guided tours at any time.