The Ré bee

Would you like to discover the art of soap-making on the Ile de Ré during your stay?

The Ile de Ré is located on a major bird migration route between Africa and the Arctic. Its natural areas are therefore particularly valuable, as they are likely to be home to a large number of bird species. At the tip of the island, in the heart of the Fier d'Ars marshes and mudflats, the Lilleau des Niges reserve was created in 1980 with the aim of preserving this biodiversity.

Your vacation on the Ile de Ré will be an opportunity to visit the sites and buildings that are the pride of the people of the island. Among the must-sees is the emblematic Baleines lighthouse, whose long silhouette stands facing the Atlantic at the western end of the island. The Baleines site comprises buildings of different ages: the old tower, built on the orders of Minister Colbert in 1669, is a strategic maritime observatory, providing advanced protection for Rochefort's fledgling arsenal.

The port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, on the north coast of the island, opens onto the Pertuis Breton and has existed since the Middle Ages. It was around this harbor that the island's urban core was built, and its commercial and strategic position soon made Saint-Martin-de-Ré the historic economic capital of the Rhaetan territory.

The Ile de Ré boasts a wealth of markets, much appreciated by visitors to the region. There's nothing like strolling through these markets to stock up on local produce, pick up souvenir gifts or simply relax during your stay in Charente-Maritime.

Would you like to discover the oysters of the Ile de Ré during your stay? Find out all about these quality products, famous for their unique taste.

A historic tradition on the Ile de Ré, salt farming sustained the territory from the Middle Ages until the end of the 19ᵉ century. Gradually abandoned over the course of the 20ᵉ century, the salt pans gave way to the marshes and mudflats that form the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve, and are home to precious populations of migratory birds.

The history of vine-growing on the island dates back to the 13ᵉ century: cultivated by the Cistercian monks of the Châteliers abbey, it continued to exist on the island long after their departure driven by the Wars of Religion. By 1950, vine-growing was at its peak on the island, occupying more than 2,000 hectares. It was also at this time that the island's winegrowers decided to form a wine cooperative.

Planning your outdoor vacation? Find out what to do on the Ile de Ré during your stay. Between water sports, cycling, beaches, salt marshes, visits to the most beautiful villages, beaches and relaxing by the pool, you'll find out what to do during your vacation in an open-air hotel on the Ile de Ré.

If the Charente coastline is a popular destination for surfers, the Ile de Ré is no exception, offering some of the finest spots in the area. The swell breaks in the south-west of the island, making a large number of beaches ideal for surfers of all levels.

Explorer la belle Ile de Ré nécessite un moyen de transport fiable. Heureusement, se déplacer en bus sur l’Ile de Ré est un moyen efficace et rentable de se rendre d’un endroit à l’autre.

Vacationing on an island means enjoying the omnipresence of the ocean. Nautical, aquatic and coastal activities abound on the Ile de Ré. Fishing on foot is a must: enjoy the pleasure of digging up shellfish yourself and feasting on them! The foreshore is renowned for its biodiversity. Everyone can observe or fish for a wide variety of seafood.