Ile de Ré Holiday Magazine - Ile de Re Holiday Homes
Ile de Ré Holiday Magazine - Ile de Re Holiday Homes
Ile de Ré Holiday Magazine - Ile de Re Holiday Homes
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Yearly N°14 - January - December 2012<br />
Charente-Maritime <strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> <strong>Holiday</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>
The sole aim of this tourist information gui<strong>de</strong> is<br />
to tell you all about our island and make your<br />
stay here as enjoyable as possible. We hope you<br />
will be paying us a visit very soon. We would like<br />
to say a special thank you to all our partners.<br />
Without their cooperation, this gui<strong>de</strong> could not<br />
have been produced. Enjoy your stay!<br />
BP 39 - 3 rue Père Ignace<br />
17410 SAINT MARTIN DE RÉ<br />
Tel. 00 33 (0)5 46 09 00 55<br />
Fax 00 33 (0)5 46 09 00 54<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com /tourisme@ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
To call France: +00 33 (0)...<br />
For full <strong>de</strong>tails and real time<br />
online bookings,<br />
please visit:<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
iPHOnE<br />
Creation/realisation: Edition: <strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> Tourisme<br />
Montgomery Ouest/La Rochelle<br />
Tel. 05 46 45 01 21<br />
www.montgomery-ouest.com<br />
Druck: Mordacq<br />
PEFC/10-31-1240<br />
The publisher disclaims all responsibility for any errors<br />
or omissions that may appear in this document.<br />
Non-contractual photos, texts, plans and maps.<br />
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form.<br />
Information received from the service provi<strong>de</strong>rs.<br />
October 2011.<br />
Photos: Xavier Leoty, Mélanie Chaigneau,<br />
Sylvain Roussillon, Montgomery Ouest, CDT 17,<br />
<strong>Re</strong>lais Thalasso <strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> Tourisme Partner<br />
LOGO N°:Mise en page 1 17/09/08 12:40<br />
ÎLE DE RÉ IN YOUR MOBILE PHONE.<br />
> Download the 2D co<strong>de</strong> rea<strong>de</strong>r<br />
(or “tag”) free of charge in the store<br />
application of your Smartphone<br />
(“mobile tag” on iPhone or look for “qr co<strong>de</strong> rea<strong>de</strong>r”)<br />
> Launch 2D co<strong>de</strong> rea<strong>de</strong>r. The camera automatically opens.<br />
The tag is immediately recognized in some mo<strong>de</strong>ls. But it<br />
can be necessary to take a photo of it in other mo<strong>de</strong>ls.<br />
> Access multimedia contents.<br />
Useful tip: Slowly move the telephone<br />
close to the tag. The tag should be<br />
placed at the centre of the screen.<br />
<strong>Re</strong>quires 3G connection.<br />
OTHER SmaRTPHOnES<br />
CONTENTS<br />
Pages<br />
A Protected Territory 2-3<br />
The Island in 10 Stories<br />
Contact <strong>de</strong>tails of 10 Tourist Offices 4 to 6<br />
Entertainments<br />
& cultural events 7-8<br />
Local products 9 to 12<br />
<strong>Re</strong>staurants, markets, producers...<br />
Thalasso and wellbeing 13 to 15<br />
Accommodation 16-17<br />
12 sites, 12 visits 18-19<br />
Cycling paradise 20-21<br />
The great outdoors 22<br />
Sailing 23<br />
BEACHES the North to the South 24-25<br />
History 26-27<br />
& stories for kids<br />
Practical information<br />
FREquENTly ASkEd quESTioNS 28-29<br />
Travelling to <strong>Ré</strong> 30-31<br />
Map 33<br />
ACCoMModATioN SECTioN<br />
Hotels<br />
Pages<br />
5 to 11<br />
Campsites 12 to 19<br />
Self-catering resi<strong>de</strong>nces 20 - 21<br />
Self-catering holiday accommodation 22<br />
Guest-houses, B&B 24-25<br />
<strong>Holiday</strong> park 26<br />
Group accommodation 26<br />
<strong>Holiday</strong> complexes 27<br />
<strong>Holiday</strong> villages 28
lET’S diSCoVER HERITAGE<br />
Information for better protection<br />
A<br />
s soon as you pass the toll, the tone is set: banners<br />
indicate that you are getting into the foreshore,<br />
a listed site to be protected. For non initiates, the<br />
foreshore is the part of the seashore which is left<br />
exposed at low ti<strong>de</strong>, thus showing pebbles and rocks, and letting<br />
fishing pits appear. This fragile environment shelters numerous<br />
species which are very popular among fishers along the seashore:<br />
mussel, oyster, clam, cockle, hard shell clam, scallop, razor clam are<br />
part of the most favourite shellfish. As for crustaceans, edible crab,<br />
velvet crab and shrimp are the most appreciated. But one should<br />
keep in mind that these are endangered species. Fishing along the<br />
seashore entrances every generation, young and old alike; it is not<br />
unusual to see children with their grandparents equipped with push<br />
nets and baskets and exploring the beach. When it is spring ti<strong>de</strong>, it is<br />
possible to get to the lighthouse of Chauveau on foot as it is a great<br />
attraction.<br />
A natural space created by man<br />
the present-day configuration of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is the consequence<br />
of man’s work. As a matter of fact, man created salt marshlands<br />
while shaping the scenery and environment. Mainly located<br />
in the north of the island, marshlands represent 20% of the<br />
total surface, that is to say 1,500ha. Some of them are active for salt<br />
production or are used to refine oysters, others shelter remarkable<br />
fauna and flora: these shallow spaces represent reservoirs for fish<br />
and eels. Between marshlands, on islets and on the si<strong>de</strong>s of bumps,<br />
protected species can alight and nest in peace; in some fields,<br />
robust blackhead sheep of Scottish origin conscientiously maintain<br />
meadows by grazing salt-water grass.<br />
The geometric patterns formed by the ponds reflect the colour of<br />
the sky blending together with the clayey bottom, thus producing<br />
2 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
unusual colours, slate grey, mauve blue, or sometimes<br />
pink. The different seasons see the various<br />
colours follow one after another: the yellow of<br />
mustard flowers and brooms in spring, the white of<br />
umbelliferae and the mauve of sea laven<strong>de</strong>r in summer,<br />
the red of glassworts in autumn.<br />
While you go through marshlands on foot or by<br />
bike, everything seems monotonous and similar;<br />
yet, in this space where silence is punctuated with<br />
bird calls, everything is picturesque and diverse.<br />
Lilleau <strong>de</strong>s Niges, paradise<br />
for birds and ornithologists<br />
the reserve of Lilleau <strong>de</strong>s Niges was created<br />
in 1980 on a site where ancient salt marshlands<br />
were situated. Located on one of<br />
the major European migration routes, this<br />
nature reserve shelters hundreds of thousands of<br />
birds taking refuge here: attracted by an important<br />
fauna living in the marshlands, some birds build<br />
their nests and reproduce.<br />
Coming from Africa, Siberia, Greenland, Scandinavia<br />
or Canada, over 300 species have been watched<br />
by the ‘Ligue <strong>de</strong> Protection <strong>de</strong>s Oiseaux’ (League for<br />
the Protection of Birds) which regularly rings them<br />
so that they can be i<strong>de</strong>ntified.<br />
As winter is particularly mild in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>, brants,<br />
Eurasian curlews, belted kingfishers or Eurasian<br />
oystercatchers stop here in winter, which represents<br />
40,000 birds. In spring, you will be able to<br />
watch common shelducks, black-winged stilts, pied<br />
avocets, common terns or, if you are very lucky, rare<br />
bluethroats. At the end of the summer, ospreys,<br />
little egrets and sacred ibises show their beaks after<br />
tourists leave the island.<br />
On the whole path connecting to LES PORTES to<br />
ARS, educational notice boards <strong>de</strong>scribe birds to be<br />
found here; in summer, observation points are set<br />
and any curious visitor is able to view the various<br />
species with binoculars.<br />
What are the best conditions to watch birds? Rather<br />
in winter and spring which are periods of important<br />
migration, and rather in marshlands at high ti<strong>de</strong>:<br />
when the ocean is low, the salt licks of Fiers d’Ars<br />
become fantastic picnic areas abounding with easily<br />
accessible food. And bird calls will indicate you<br />
where they are…
PROTECTED<br />
SITE<br />
Protected site, Pilot islAnd<br />
in environment Protection<br />
Before going fishing, it is recommen<strong>de</strong>d<br />
to follow a few rules that will ensure<br />
the sustainability of biodiversity<br />
resources in the foreshore: observe<br />
the minimum regulatory sizes for<br />
each species (small measuring<br />
<strong>de</strong>vices are available throughout<br />
the island in or<strong>de</strong>r to throw back<br />
small species in the water), observe<br />
the maximum quantity of 5kg, use<br />
traditional tools and do not move<br />
pebbles.<br />
Important! the prefectorial <strong>de</strong>cree of<br />
9 th September 2010 prohibits picking up<br />
oysters on the phare <strong>de</strong> Chauveau site.<br />
AN ECO-TAX TO PROTECT<br />
A small piece of the Charente-Maritime just<br />
above sea level – a won<strong>de</strong>rful break! An<br />
island combining woods, waves, dunes, marsh-<br />
lands,… gathering oyster-farmers, salt workers,<br />
winegrowers, fishermen, and the varied<br />
crowd meeting the island’s inhabitants.<br />
discovering <strong>Ré</strong>, sampling it, experiencing<br />
it, for a few days or forever, appreciating its<br />
beauty, cleanliness and safe atmosphere. The<br />
eco-tax is inten<strong>de</strong>d to keep it beautiful, safe<br />
and clean. Crossing the bridge and travelling<br />
from the mainland to a green and sandy fragment,<br />
and feeling that, as soon as you arrive,<br />
people has always respected it, protected it<br />
and prevented it from being damaged by the<br />
elements and human disturbance. Because<br />
walking all over the island only can show<br />
us the fragility of this exceptional area…<br />
The eco-tax was supported by the island’s<br />
environmental associations who approved<br />
the vote of financial means necessary for the<br />
preservation of the island and, in particular,<br />
in relation to means of transportation so that<br />
an efficient and clean public transport system<br />
can be examined and financed. The greatest<br />
part of the money raised by the tax is to be<br />
spent on environment protection projects.<br />
Coasts, marshlands, woods – a long-term<br />
programme that will be carried through by<br />
both officials and specialists. Small plants<br />
such as Marram grass, sea lime-grass or<br />
quack grass are found in dune systems.<br />
They are very nice and useful as they hold<br />
windblown grains of sand in place and<br />
stabilise this natural protection. They also<br />
<strong>de</strong>fend the land from the sea. So, in or<strong>de</strong>r to<br />
allow them to take root and grow, it is now<br />
forbid<strong>de</strong>n to gallop in the dune ridge which<br />
is protected by wood barriers called ganivelles.<br />
Walkways lead to the beach and they<br />
are suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.<br />
litter will be thrown away in the dustbin<br />
just behind. Eco-guards, whether walking or<br />
riding a bike, keep a watch. on our safety<br />
and our behaviours too…<br />
More informations, see page 31.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 3
lET’S diSCoVER VILLAGEs<br />
rivedoux Plage, |1<br />
FIRST STEPS ON THE ISLAND<br />
From the top of the bridge, the wi<strong>de</strong>st bay<br />
of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> appears. A huge half-moon cove<br />
licking the feet of the white-washed hourses<br />
of the harbour. Green shutters, windows open<br />
onto the small boats, their faça<strong>de</strong>s glittering<br />
at sunrise. After leaving the bridge, the first<br />
pine trees help you <strong>de</strong>termine the direction<br />
of prevailing winds… they bend towards<br />
lined oyster-beds along the north coastline, in<br />
Pertuis Breton. This is the place where oyster<br />
farmers align the ‘poches’ filled with spats.<br />
These are openwork honeycomb bags in<br />
which oyster will be growing. Here, people are<br />
attached to their oyster parks, their know-how,<br />
they are proud to be oyster-farmers. When the<br />
sun is too hot, Rivedoux-Plage places beach<br />
umbrellas on the south coast, in Perthuis<br />
d’Antioche. Beautiful views of the nice small<br />
lighthouse of Chauveau and its headland!<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> Rivedoux Plage<br />
05 46 09 80 62 | www.rivedoux-plage.fr<br />
la Flotte |2<br />
This is the one of the ol<strong>de</strong>st villages of the<br />
island which is nestled behind Pointe <strong>de</strong>s<br />
4 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Barres. It is listed as a ‘Village of Stone and<br />
Water’. Steeped in history and religion, La<br />
Flotte does not forget it has witnessed the<br />
beginning of vine growing thanks to the<br />
monks of the Abbaye <strong>de</strong>s Châteliers. From<br />
the small harbour with its cafés where you<br />
can sit outsi<strong>de</strong> and watch the old sailing<br />
ships to narrow streets along which you will<br />
walk while visiting the market with its medieval<br />
architecture and the church. And so,<br />
you will discover a flowery well, a pediment<br />
or a small stone bench. La Flotte enables<br />
its visitors to dream of living during those<br />
reassuring past days. And when the evening<br />
comes, you will stroll un<strong>de</strong>r the plane trees<br />
of Cours Félix Faure and admire the old resi<strong>de</strong>ntial<br />
houses dating back to last centuries.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> La Flotte<br />
05 46 09 60 38 | www.laflotte-ile<strong>de</strong>re.fr<br />
saint martin <strong>de</strong> ré |3<br />
It is often named the ‘capital’ of the island. If<br />
this name corresponds to its economic <strong>de</strong>velopment,<br />
however Saint-Martin is not the<br />
most populated village but it undoubtedly<br />
resonates with echoes of the past. The town<br />
was built by VAUBAN and has retained almost<br />
intact walls and buildings. The star-shaped<br />
ramparts built by Vauban and inscribed on<br />
the Unesco World Heritage List in 2008. Everything<br />
in Saint-Martin is History and back<br />
stories. Evi<strong>de</strong>nce of numerous, fierce battles<br />
against the English Navy, fights between the<br />
Catholics and Protestants can be glimpsed in<br />
the town. Saint-Martin can be read like a picture<br />
book from the belltower of the fortified<br />
church – from the medieval half-timbered<br />
houses to the art galleries.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> Saint Martin <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
05 46 09 20 06 | www.saint-martin-<strong>de</strong>-re.net<br />
3<br />
Ars en ré |4<br />
Standing between the ocean and saltmarshes,<br />
the spire of the church of Saint-<br />
Étienne announces our arrival at Ars. The<br />
landmark, painted in black and white since<br />
the 17th century to protect the Royal Navy,<br />
is used as a navigational gui<strong>de</strong> by sailors and<br />
a leading mark by all cycle ri<strong>de</strong>rs looking for<br />
fresh drinks! Ars houses the most important<br />
marina of the island accommodating all<br />
types of boats ranging from the most luxurious<br />
to the most original ones and passing<br />
by “worthless boats” making their proprietors<br />
8
9<br />
proud and happy. This is a peaceful village<br />
surroun<strong>de</strong>d by vineyards, market gar<strong>de</strong>ns<br />
and the ‘fier’. Its market, its marina and galleries,<br />
its cafés and its central square fill Ars<br />
with tranquil life. Here, you always take your<br />
time,… but you never waste your time!<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme d’Ars en <strong>Ré</strong><br />
05 46 29 46 09 | www.ile<strong>de</strong>re-arsenre.com<br />
la couar<strong>de</strong> sur mer |6<br />
La Couar<strong>de</strong> is a seasi<strong>de</strong> resort and a lively<br />
village situated just between the north and<br />
the south of the island. Beach activities have<br />
been one of its main advantages since the<br />
20th century. This long, gol<strong>de</strong>n sandy beach<br />
was a favourite among swimmers who used<br />
to install small woo<strong>de</strong>n beach huts because<br />
changing in public was not acceptable.<br />
Nowadays, there are no beach huts, but<br />
people come with their family and savour the<br />
beach and ocean all day long. Here, younger<br />
people enjoy watersports activities in total<br />
5<br />
THE ISLAND IN 10 STORIES<br />
White-washed low houses, green, blue<br />
or grey shutters, red-tiled roofs, hollyhocks<br />
springing out between the stones<br />
of the pavement, narrow, winding streets…<br />
Each village seems to look like one another,<br />
and yet, each one is different.<br />
6<br />
safety. The narrow streets of La Couar<strong>de</strong> get<br />
bustling and busy towards the end of the<br />
afternoon. People have a drink or do shopping<br />
around the only bandstand in the island<br />
offering open-air concerts during all the<br />
summer season. And film lovers can go to<br />
LA MALINE to watch various and innovating<br />
performances and exhibitions.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> La Couar<strong>de</strong> sur Mer<br />
05 46 29 82 93 | www.ile<strong>de</strong>re-lacouar<strong>de</strong>.com<br />
loix |5<br />
Here we are at the heart of the salt marshes,<br />
almost cut off from the other parts of <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
Only the small bridge of Le Fenau still provi<strong>de</strong>s<br />
a link with the island. The white colour<br />
reigns supreme at Loix: the walls of the<br />
buildings rival piles of salt awaiting on the<br />
1<br />
7<br />
bumps of marshlands. The Salt Route can be<br />
followed by bike: this is a white limestone<br />
path winding among marshlands and<br />
above channels. The small village is clustered<br />
around its church supporting a square<br />
belltower. From the heart of the village with<br />
its morning market in season spread out<br />
flowered narrow streets splashed with hollyhocks<br />
in particular. There is a treasure hid<strong>de</strong>n<br />
in the cemetery: the inhabitants will be<br />
<strong>de</strong>lighted to reveal it to you. A vestige of the<br />
flourishing period of the tra<strong>de</strong> of salt is the<br />
ti<strong>de</strong> mill.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> Loix<br />
05 46 29 07 91 | www.loix.fr<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 5<br />
4
lET’S diSCoVER VILLAGEs<br />
les Portes en ré |7<br />
The far tip of the island for locals! Nestled<br />
among woods and salt marshes, Les Portes<br />
opens onto the ocean too! Take your bike<br />
and ri<strong>de</strong> straight ahead… The famous beach<br />
of «Trousse-Chemise» is there, you have sung<br />
this song so often! And La Patache with its<br />
small boats. Le Banc du Bucheron, like an atoll<br />
in the northern hemisphere, is an invitation<br />
to a boat trip. The atmosphere is so light that<br />
only the breeze blowing through the pine<br />
trees indicates that you are on the land! And<br />
now, you sit down and watch. Les Portes is the<br />
perfect place for meditation. Next, when you<br />
come back to the village, the small square with<br />
its warm and friendly atmosphere will make<br />
you appreciate more terrestrial pleasures.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong>s Portes en <strong>Ré</strong><br />
05 46 09 23 26 | www.lesportesenre.com<br />
le Bois Plage en ré |8<br />
A large village situated between the wood<br />
and the ocean and fringed by a beach<br />
stretching for five kilometres, Le Bois-Plage<br />
has a holiday feel. When staying at Le Bois,<br />
you get up early because you can’t miss<br />
the market! The most important market of<br />
the island since it gathers 150 itinerant tra-<br />
2<br />
6 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
<strong>de</strong>rs. Great fun for kids on the roundabout<br />
and great <strong>de</strong>light for their parents sitting<br />
back outsi<strong>de</strong> one of the nearby cafés. In<br />
your shopping bag, new potatoes and wine<br />
coming directly from local producers or<br />
“Coopérative Viticole” close-by. “<strong>Ré</strong>tais” and<br />
tourists share the same values of quality and<br />
gentle way of life at Le Bois. In the afternoon,<br />
bathing and watersports activities with<br />
views of Oléron and Fort Boyard.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme du Bois Plage en <strong>Ré</strong><br />
05 46 09 23 26 | www.leboisplageenre-tourisme.com<br />
saint clément<br />
<strong>de</strong>s Baleines |9<br />
Saint-Clément was born as a result of the<br />
gathering of five hamlets and this is the reason<br />
why the village is divi<strong>de</strong>d into ‘districts’.<br />
First, you will see the lighthouse, and then<br />
the village. <strong>Re</strong>d cap standing out on blue sky<br />
– the ocean is not far away! At the foot of the<br />
lighthouse stretches the long beach of La<br />
Conche: a paradise for lovers of fiery sunset<br />
and picnics in the middle of nowhere. This<br />
beautiful beach has been a star since 1961<br />
when the film director, Daryl Zanuck, used<br />
it as the setting of the D-Day landing scenes<br />
in the cult film ‘The Longest Day’. The village<br />
activity is centred around the church square.<br />
You can stroll in the village, then leave it and<br />
admire the vineyards. Time stops at Saint-<br />
Clément: forget your watch… it’s so good!<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> Saint Clément <strong>de</strong>s Baleines<br />
05 46 29 24 19 | www.stclement<strong>de</strong>sbaleines.com<br />
sainte marie <strong>de</strong> ré |10<br />
Sainte-Marie is certainly the most traditional<br />
village of the island as it preserved its<br />
“magayant” spirit. People here fish along the<br />
seashore on spring ti<strong>de</strong>s. They are both farmers<br />
and winemakers, and attached to their<br />
land. Fish locks – ancient fishing chambers<br />
– are still maintained and in exploitation. At<br />
Sainte-Marie, dry stone walls house traditional<br />
wine warehouses and people know<br />
perfectly how to work the soil by using<br />
the grubbing technique. But, tradition and<br />
entertainment combine here! There is the<br />
beach of Les Grenettes, a world-famous<br />
place for surfing. You will have the opportunity<br />
to meet renowned surfers and plenty of<br />
beginners who try to be very experienced.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme <strong>de</strong> Sainte Marie <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
05 46 30 22 92 | www.saintemarie<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
10
CULTURAL CENTRE<br />
Shows, concerts,<br />
CINEmA OR ExHIBITIONS?<br />
LA MALINE<br />
www.lamaline.net<br />
It’s on the programme!<br />
La Maline has just celebrated its 18th anniversary.<br />
Theatre, humour, dance, music, cinema, exhibitions<br />
- its director, Catherine Wojcik is a kind of<br />
‘Shiva of organization’. In fact, how to do to allow<br />
each discipline to have its own place here without<br />
falling over the other one… These are the secrets<br />
revealed by Catherine we have met discreetly<br />
backstage. Excited and cheerful, she says straight<br />
out “Performing live arts means coping with the<br />
unexpected! We have to make film performances<br />
and shows coexist. For those which are already<br />
staged, ready to be ‘consumed without mo<strong>de</strong>ration’,<br />
no problem. They have their own time slots!<br />
But we have to juggle shows we are preparing! La<br />
Maline welcomes numerous artists in resi<strong>de</strong>nce.<br />
Here, they construct their forthcoming productions<br />
in the heart of the hall, work on lights, sounds<br />
and learn their chords and style of their staging.<br />
It is exciting to follow them and see the birth of a<br />
show…. It means being sometimes patient, often<br />
ready to listen and always giving affection”. Catherine<br />
finds talents on various festival scenes and,<br />
above all, the scene of Avignon festival where she<br />
goes every year. “My team and I, we always select<br />
the artists we invite because we have retained,<br />
discovered or loved something interesting!”. Then<br />
the public conveys their emotions and presence.<br />
These are live performing arts!”<br />
ENTERTAiNMENTS & CULTURAL EVENTs<br />
located at la Couar<strong>de</strong>, in the very<br />
heart of the island, la Maline is not a simple<br />
concert hall, but a real cultural place with rich, original and<br />
high-quality programmes, which do not neglect kids, particularly<br />
in summer.<br />
Some inhabitants of La Rochelle are happy to cross the bridge<br />
and attend shows. It is not rare that groups of artists come<br />
and polish up their forthcoming show, thus offering their<br />
public the opportunity of a preview performance.<br />
To book tickets, please visit: www.reservation-ile<strong>de</strong>re.com.<br />
So don’t hesitate!<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 7
ENTERTAiNMENTS & CULTURAL EVENTs<br />
April<br />
printemps musical en ré<br />
Several villages of Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Printemps musical en <strong>Ré</strong>, the first important event<br />
of the year, is a festival of chamber music gathering<br />
some of the most famous national and international<br />
musicians.<br />
May<br />
Les régala<strong>de</strong>s - Culinary event<br />
Le Bois plage en ré and ars en ré<br />
On the occasion of the arrival of AOP Potato of Île<br />
<strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>: gui<strong>de</strong>d cycling excursion free of charge and<br />
open to everybody to make discover producers,<br />
winemakers, salt workers and all the rich produce<br />
of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>..<br />
Fête <strong>de</strong> la nature<br />
Several villages of Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Fête <strong>de</strong> la Nature is an event providing everybody<br />
the opportunity to live unique moments in the<br />
heart of exceptional natural sites… or less remarkable<br />
ones! Several dozens of events and ‘nature’<br />
excursions free of charge.<br />
June<br />
ré-majeure<br />
Several villages of Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
<strong>Ré</strong> Majeur enables everybody to enjoy very high<br />
quality opera and chamber music.<br />
Festival passe-portes<br />
Les portes en ré<br />
Passe-Portes is a friendly open-air theatre festival for<br />
every public offering high-quality entertainments<br />
at a period of the year when Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is warm and<br />
welcoming in the sunshine.<br />
Surf and Skate Contest<br />
Sainte marie <strong>de</strong> ré (Les Grenettes)<br />
Each year, Surf and Skate Contest gathers watersports<br />
enthusiasts around 4 sports: surfing, kitesurfing,<br />
skateboarding and stand up paddleboarding.<br />
ré Beach tour<br />
Le Bois plage en ré<br />
If the ball that some people <strong>de</strong>scribe as round<br />
and light appeals to you, go to this magical place<br />
sheltered from the prevailing winds, just behind<br />
the dunes of the beach of Les Gollandières: Beach<br />
Stadium.<br />
July<br />
Festival International <strong>de</strong> Guitare<br />
Several villages of Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Festival international <strong>de</strong> Guitare offers numerous<br />
guitar concerts performed by worldwi<strong>de</strong> artists.<br />
*All the <strong>de</strong>finitive events on our website: www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
8 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
EVENTS DIARY<br />
More informations on<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com/«à l’affiche» section*<br />
musique en ré<br />
Several villages of Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Each year, the major sites of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> host the<br />
Musique en <strong>Ré</strong> festival with musicians performing<br />
some of the most of the masterpieces of the symphonic<br />
repertoire.<br />
August<br />
Festival en ré - musical event<br />
ars en ré<br />
Festival en <strong>Ré</strong> is the only French festival <strong>de</strong>dicated<br />
to song writers, those who create hits and stars.<br />
Each year, the festival gathers several generations<br />
of song writers thus providing the public the opportunity<br />
to appreciate the rich and varied repertoire<br />
of the French song.<br />
Fête <strong>de</strong> l’oiseau<br />
Saint Clément <strong>de</strong>s Baleines<br />
Les portes en ré<br />
During a 1h30 circuit, LPO (French bird protection<br />
league) instructors organize outings in the open<br />
country.<br />
Book fair (L’île aux livres)<br />
Le Bois plage en ré<br />
For all book enthusiasts, this book fair is a meeting<br />
and convivial exchange place about books with<br />
conferences, meetings with writers, sale of books, etc.<br />
Jazz au phare<br />
Saint Clément <strong>de</strong>s Baleines<br />
The Jazz au Phare festival is a subtle association of<br />
the iconic place of the ‘Phare <strong>de</strong>s Baleines’, a warm<br />
public and a prestigious programme! A magical<br />
event!<br />
Jazz en ré<br />
Saint martin <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Jazz en <strong>Ré</strong> takes place in the spectacular harbour<br />
of Saint-Martin-<strong>de</strong>-<strong>Ré</strong> and Vauban fortifications.<br />
This jazz festival corresponds to the welcoming<br />
atmosphere and spirit of discovery of this music.<br />
From the blues to the gipsy music, passing by the<br />
swing, one is spoilt for choice.<br />
Festival Bulles <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Saint martin <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
The first comics festival in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> gathering<br />
numerous more or less famous artists and cartoonists:<br />
meetings, autographs, entertainments,<br />
shows, etc. A unique picturesque event!<br />
september<br />
arts <strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Le Bois plage en ré<br />
This Art Fair is open to the general public and<br />
inten<strong>de</strong>d to make discover everybody the various<br />
faces of contemporary art: paintings, sculptures,<br />
glass, ceramics, etc.<br />
Les Journées du patrimoine<br />
Several villages of Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Once a year, during the Heritage Days, numerous<br />
sites of Îles <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> are open to the public free of<br />
charge.<br />
open international <strong>de</strong> tennis handisport<br />
La Couar<strong>de</strong> sur mer<br />
With the participation of the best players coming<br />
from around the world, the Open International<br />
(disability tennis) of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> takes place late September<br />
each year. It is a very popular tournament<br />
with top sports contests in a warm atmosphere.<br />
The Open International of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> matters for<br />
the world rankings and is situated in the 3rd rank<br />
of French tournaments after French Open and<br />
Roland Garros.<br />
Fête du Coquillage<br />
Saint martin <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Each year, the harbour of Saint-Martin-<strong>de</strong>-<strong>Ré</strong> hosts<br />
Fête du Coquillage (Shellfish Festival) offering a<br />
convivial evening party with music, dance and<br />
shellfish sampling.<br />
October<br />
Salon <strong>de</strong>s métiers d’art et <strong>de</strong> la Création<br />
Saint martin <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Exhibitors come from the surrounding region<br />
and other regions and countries. You will have<br />
the opportunity to meet young fashion <strong>de</strong>signers<br />
working for couturiers, stained glass window <strong>de</strong>signers,<br />
ceramists, china painters, weaving, original<br />
jewels or <strong>de</strong>corative items.<br />
Festival <strong>de</strong> tango argentin<br />
Saint martin <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Festival <strong>de</strong> Tango Argentin offers introductory and<br />
improving techniques courses of tango, the famous<br />
Argentine dance. The courses are provi<strong>de</strong>d by the<br />
well-known Bustelo sisters.
Markets<br />
AN AuTHENTIC ATmOSPHERE NOT TO BE<br />
mISSED!<br />
Whether you are an inhabitant of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> or not, life on the island<br />
would not be the same if markets did not exist. Of course,<br />
the market is the place to do one’s shopping, but also to stroll<br />
around the coloured stalls, to meet people, and to have a drink in<br />
one of the cafés you will find around the marketplace.<br />
Some markets take place every day in the morning throughout<br />
the year; it is the case at La Flotte, Rivedoux and Sainte Marie.<br />
In the other villages of the island, markets take place every day<br />
during the tourist season and some others sometimes take place<br />
in the evening.<br />
So what can you buy? Oysters and other shellfish, fish, salt, wines<br />
and other in-season fruit and vegetables, to sum up, all local<br />
products. But also clothes, fancy jewelleries, interior <strong>de</strong>coration<br />
items, beach items… In a way, markets are open-air supermarkets<br />
where it is pleasant to wan<strong>de</strong>r about and where it is possible<br />
to hunt out real bargains!<br />
Each village houses a particular market: the market of La Flotte, of<br />
medieval inspiration, is set up in a paved and half-covered marketplace;<br />
the market of Ars en <strong>Ré</strong> is the most popular; the market<br />
of Bois-Plage is the most important, the market of La Couar<strong>de</strong><br />
provi<strong>de</strong>s the most family atmosphere, the market of Loix is the<br />
most intimate… In each market, the atmosphere is different and<br />
reflects the essence of the village. And if you take your time, you<br />
can even perceive and appreciate it.<br />
10 | vacances île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
<strong>Re</strong>staurants<br />
IN ÎLE DE <strong>Ré</strong>, EVERYTHINg IS POSSIBLE<br />
fOR THE PLEASuRE Of THE EYES<br />
AND TASTE BuDS.<br />
Nearly a thousand places to eat, from the simplest to the finest,<br />
offer an impressive range of dishes in a variety of <strong>de</strong>cors for<br />
gourmets of all ages. Seafood and fish are local specialities – <strong>Ré</strong> is<br />
an island – and also local produce such as potatoes cooked with<br />
infinite imagination by chefs and seasoned with salt flower and<br />
then washed down with a ‘<strong>Ré</strong>tais’ wine. Classical food should also<br />
be mentioned for those who feel peckish between two activities:<br />
crêpes, pizzas, mussels and chips… And for those who have a<br />
sweet tooth, they will enjoy eating an ice-cream at any time of<br />
the day while walking around the harbour.<br />
For the list of our partners,<br />
please visit:<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
or download the free app<br />
ILEDERE TOUR.<br />
Tell us what you think: your<br />
opinion is valued!
LOCAL PRODuCTS<br />
A gourmet dinner? A bistro or a table outsi<strong>de</strong> a café in the harbour?<br />
A restaurant right by the sea? A hut in the marshlands to sample<br />
oysters informally? A trendy place? Local producers, a market ?<br />
© Michèle Jean-Bart<br />
About a hundred salt<br />
workers gathered in a<br />
cooperative in or<strong>de</strong>r to<br />
optimize their means<br />
of production and sale;<br />
cooking salt and table salt<br />
(finely ground rock salt),<br />
salt flower and herb-seasoned<br />
salt are sold un<strong>de</strong>r the<br />
brand name of ‘Sauniers<br />
<strong>de</strong> l’Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>’ or store<br />
brands in hypermarkets.<br />
sALT<br />
From la Couar<strong>de</strong> to les Portes and loix passing<br />
through Ars and St Clément-les-Baleines, marshlands<br />
with bluish-grey glints stretch as far as the<br />
eye can see while contrasting with the green colours<br />
of vineyards and southern vegetations. So it is here<br />
that salt workers harvest the ‘white gold’, one of the<br />
natural treasures of the island. over an area of 460<br />
hectares, they preserve age-long traditions dating<br />
back to the 12th century: seawater remains in clay<br />
ponds of various sizes, and a natural process of evaporation<br />
occurs thanks to the sun and wind; it is in<br />
the last ponds called “aires saunantes” that salt crystals<br />
are harvested manually between the months of<br />
June and September. As it was the case in the past,<br />
the salt worker uses a kind of large rake called the<br />
“simoussi” to form small pyramids, the “coubes”,<br />
that will let the water drain off before being carried<br />
away to a more important pile of salt, the “pilot”.<br />
Afterwards the salt is sorted out before being<br />
packaged for sale. Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>’s salt workers are key<br />
operators for the preservation of natural environment.<br />
They take an active part in the protection of a<br />
rich biodiversity of flora and fauna sheltered by this<br />
living environment shaped by men; they maintain<br />
ponds, clay levees and watch over and control water<br />
levels. Apart from summer months, salt workers<br />
<strong>de</strong>vote most of their time to renovating marshlands:<br />
cleaning, levelling pond bottoms, creating nest<br />
islands, maintaining flora.<br />
OysTERs<br />
Each year, on Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>, oyster-farmers<br />
produce between 6,000 and<br />
8,000 tons of oysters, while 130,000<br />
tons of oysters are eaten in France.<br />
But, oysters are nurtured by oyster-farmers<br />
for three years before they are found in markets.<br />
What’s happening during this period? When it is reproduction<br />
time, an oyster produces millions of tiny larvae which will fix<br />
themselves on a hard support after 20 days. Then, they will<br />
grow and take the form of bundles which will be <strong>de</strong>tached<br />
manually and then put in bags before being sent to the breeding<br />
areas in the ocean. To be able to close up (and <strong>de</strong>velop<br />
their muscles), they are placed as close as possible to the<br />
edge so that they are in the open air every time the ti<strong>de</strong><br />
changes. Oyster-farmers regularly work in oyster beds that<br />
can be seen around the island when the ti<strong>de</strong> is low.<br />
Oyster can be compared to wine: it will have a different taste<br />
is it is produced on rock or sand, if it is matured in seawater<br />
(‘huîtres fines’) or in the fresh water of a clay-bottom marshland<br />
(‘huîtres fines <strong>de</strong> clair’ or ‘spéciales’). But, unlike wine, it<br />
does not need any fertilizer or particular care: it will grow by<br />
itself and even repair its shell if it is broken.<br />
FISHINg ALONg THE SEASHORE<br />
ANGLING<br />
When the ti<strong>de</strong> is out, fishing pits and rocks appear; edible<br />
crabs, velvet crabs, shrimps, clams, cockles, hard shell clams,<br />
scallops or razor shells attract young and not so young amateurs.<br />
But be careful: for the preservation of protected species,<br />
it is essential to respect the minimum sizes of each one.<br />
At sunrise or sunset, it is not exceptional to meet fishermen<br />
who place fishing lines on the beach. It is after a period of<br />
high wind that they catch the biggest fish: sea bass look for<br />
food when the sea is rough, then get to quieter places close to<br />
the seasi<strong>de</strong> and finally are attracted by the bait.<br />
How does<br />
it work?<br />
See page 1.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 11
LOCAL PRODuCTS<br />
POTATOEs<br />
Which vegetable is small, ten<strong>de</strong>r, with<br />
a slightly sweet taste and is eaten in<br />
May and June only? The potato, but<br />
not any potato... We are talking of the<br />
potato from Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>, the only one to<br />
have been granted the AoC certification<br />
since 1998. over 150 hectares,<br />
about thirty market gar<strong>de</strong>ners produce<br />
between 2,000 and 2,500 tons so that<br />
they can value quality. in 2009, a new<br />
packaging has accommodated them:<br />
a blue woo<strong>de</strong>n box, in the shape of an<br />
oyster hamper and bearing a mo<strong>de</strong>rn<br />
logo.<br />
WINE<br />
As a matter of fact the first monks who settled in the island were not<br />
wrong: a fertile land with 7 different soils and a sunny climate were<br />
favourable to the <strong>de</strong>velopment of vineyards. And, above all, the<br />
quality of wines has greatly improved for about ten years thus<br />
consigning to oblivion all local wines which could cause harm to<br />
stomachs and tablecloths.<br />
Still wines or sparkling wines, and also Cognac and Pineau are<br />
produced by the Coopérative which accepts the grapes of only 70<br />
winegrowers, and carries out the operations of pressing and vinification.<br />
Then the bottling process is performed according to the<br />
range un<strong>de</strong>r the same brand name of ‘Vignerons <strong>de</strong> l’île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>’.<br />
12 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Winemakers’<br />
Cooperative of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
at Le Bois Plage en <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Among the flagship products are the ‘Rosé <strong>de</strong>s<br />
Dunes’ belonging to the ‘Voile’ range and the<br />
Pineau ‘Ilrhéa’ each one representing 450,000<br />
bottles. The ‘Voile’ range, created in 1980, also<br />
comprises a red wine, ‘Petit Sergent’, and a white<br />
wine, ‘Royal’. The ‘Soif d’Evasion’ range, the latest<br />
one, offers high-quality red, rosé and white wines.<br />
Some vintage wines such as ‘Gouverneur’ or ‘Ultimium’<br />
are matured in oak casks, others such as<br />
‘Trousse Chemise’ (white or rosé) are produced<br />
according to Champagne method. Several wines<br />
have received awards; the Gilbert & Gaillard wine<br />
gui<strong>de</strong> rated ‘Rosé <strong>de</strong>s Dunes’ 80/100, and rosé<br />
‘Ilrhéa’ 85/100, and it inclu<strong>de</strong>d ‘Trousse Chemise’<br />
in its selection 2007; ‘Royal’ and rosé ‘Ilrhéa’ rosé<br />
were awar<strong>de</strong>d one star by the Gui<strong>de</strong> Hachette <strong>de</strong>s<br />
Vins 2008.<br />
Whether they are used as aperitifs, table wines or<br />
spirits, Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> wines are a perfect accompaniment<br />
to your holidays… Cheers!
Ouvert Open toute all year<br />
l’année<br />
<strong>Re</strong>lais Thalasso<br />
<strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Port Notre-Dame<br />
17740 SaiNte-marie-De-ré<br />
tél. +33(0)5 46 30 22 44<br />
Fax +33(0)5 46 30 13 49<br />
ile<strong>de</strong>re@relaisthalasso.com<br />
www.thalasso-ile<strong>de</strong>re.com
WEllBEiNG & THALAssO<br />
LE RICHELIEU<br />
IN LA FLOTTE<br />
Situated in the village of La Flotte, right by the sea, the hotel Richelieu<br />
is a member of ‘<strong>Re</strong>lais et Châteaux’. Adjoining to the hotel, the Thalassotherapy<br />
Institute has chosen to receive a limited number of guests<br />
in or<strong>de</strong>r to pay the greatest attention to their wellbeing. Package or<br />
«à la carte» treatments, classical treatments, specific treatments for the<br />
body or face, and a wi<strong>de</strong> range of services are given by a professional<br />
staff always attentive to every guest’s needs.<br />
There are seawater treatments: stress management to regain serenity,<br />
relaxation and vitality to keep fit, relaxation and postural<br />
correction to get a healthy back, work on how to get back a good muscular<br />
tone for young mothers, weight-loss treatment to refine your<br />
figure, programme for light legs.<br />
The Institute also specialises in wellbeing treatments: mo<strong>de</strong>lling,<br />
drainages, reflexology, massage, shiatsu, hot stones… One of the<br />
programmes, Spa Excellence, is particularly <strong>de</strong>signed for mo<strong>de</strong>lling<br />
enthusiasts.<br />
After the treatments, you have the opportunity to extend their effects<br />
by bathing in the heated saltwater pool, enjoying the equipment of<br />
the fitness room or drinking a herbal tea at the ‘tisanerie’.<br />
The thalassotherapy centre of Le Richelieu also offers a wi<strong>de</strong> selection<br />
of beauty treatments using Thalgo, Pevonia and Klapp products.<br />
And the restaurant of the hotel Richelieu offers gastronomic or dietetic<br />
menus for the wiser guests. <strong>Re</strong>laxation, energy and culinary <strong>de</strong>lights in<br />
an enchanting setting – what a captivating programme!<br />
14 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
did you know?<br />
It is impossible to reconstitute seawater as<br />
it is composed of mineral salts? That it also<br />
contains phytoplanktons releasing antibacterial<br />
and antiviral substances? That one kilo of<br />
seaweed contains as much iodine as 100,000<br />
litres of seawater? That marine muds, by<br />
retaining water and heat, have an important<br />
analgesic power against rheumatisms? That<br />
the skin, in a bath at 37°, assimilates oligo-<br />
elements 10 times quicker than in a classical<br />
bath in the sea?<br />
RELAIs THALAssO<br />
IN SAINTE MARIE DE <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Facing the ocean and at the heart of the<br />
vineyards, the <strong>Re</strong>lais Thalasso stands in a five hectare<br />
natural protected site. In this dream setting<br />
providing a direct access to the sea, our osteopaths,<br />
hydrotherapists, relaxologists, jealously take care<br />
of your wellness. At Le <strong>Re</strong>lais Thalasso treatments<br />
inclu<strong>de</strong> the ‘Essentielle’ treatment and specific ‘Premiums’<br />
courses of treatment: slimming Labiomer,<br />
VIP Plenitu<strong>de</strong>, postnatal treatment... All of them<br />
have optimised effects from 5 days. For those who<br />
prefer short holiday breaks, there are programmes<br />
of 1 to 2 days and you will have the opportunity to<br />
sample all our à la carte seawater and beauty treatments<br />
and mo<strong>de</strong>llings!<br />
Our guests can take advantage of the unlimited<br />
‘Espace Hydromarin’®: a saltwater pool heated at<br />
32° facing the ocean. Each guest will also have<br />
the opportunity to go to the relaxation pool<br />
and relax with music and practise the maqam<br />
“exclusive at Le <strong>Re</strong>lais Thalasso <strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>”… a<br />
stretching technique releasing muscle and joint<br />
tensions before the “lose one’s grip” step indicating<br />
wellness. Guarantee of quality: the <strong>Re</strong>lais Thalasso<br />
<strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> was awar<strong>de</strong>d the Qualicert quality<br />
certification for its perfect services including no less<br />
than 158 criteria!<br />
The gourmets will enjoy the <strong>Ré</strong>tais traditional<br />
cuisine or the diet menus prepared at the restaurant<br />
of the hotel Atalante***. At the Loofa bar, they will<br />
sample a gastronomic salad or a plate of seafood or<br />
even be tempted by the exquisite plate of <strong>de</strong>sserts<br />
for example. All savoury foods served in front of the<br />
ocean close to the thalassotherapy centre.<br />
THALACAP IN ARS EN <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Built right by the sea in 1998, Thalacap not only offers traditional<br />
courses of treatment – anti-stress, relaxation and vitality, slimming,<br />
young mother – but also specific beauty treatments. Practised by<br />
doctors, these soft techniques for the face or body, without any<br />
anaesthesia or scar, permit to get visible results immediately:<br />
wrinkle filling with injections of hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally<br />
present in the skin; anti-ageing treatment with Mesolift;<br />
slimming and treatment of circulatory troubles by meso cellulyse. But<br />
the institute does not neglect male guests: a new specific programme<br />
enables to get energy and vitality by combining relaxation and<br />
physical activity.<br />
In addition to treatments, guests are offered dietetic or culinary<br />
advice. Nutrition and dietetics can be learnt: being on a diet does<br />
not imply eating “sadly”, but on the contrary, it is important to eat<br />
with pleasure. Practical advice are given by dieticians, and simple,<br />
savoury recipes are explained and prepared by chefs.<br />
Situated by the swimming-pool, the restaurant A la Pointe <strong>de</strong><br />
Grignon combines dietetics and pleasure: chefs prepare <strong>de</strong>licious<br />
meals with fresh sea produce and <strong>Ré</strong>tais specialities for guests.
Thalasso...<br />
The <strong>de</strong>partment of Charente-Maritime<br />
is the first French <strong>de</strong>partment for<br />
seawater treatments as far the number<br />
of establishments is concerned. This<br />
<strong>de</strong>partment receives clients all year<br />
round. The benefits of thalassotherapy<br />
are indisputable: the most sceptics<br />
admit a real feeling of wellbeing after<br />
a few days of treatments thus allowing<br />
them to forget the stresses and worries<br />
of everyday life. As for the most<br />
enthusiasts, they regularly come back...<br />
THALAssO<br />
‘à LA CARTE !’<br />
Download the free app iThalasso.<br />
How does<br />
it work?<br />
See page 1.<br />
THAlASSo & WELLbEING<br />
A thalassotherapy course of treatment has medically<br />
recognized beneficial effects on metabolism<br />
and it has a positive action on the skin, joints and<br />
muscles as well as on all the other organs of the body.<br />
It is rare to have contraindications to this course<br />
of treatment.<br />
Thanks to a wi<strong>de</strong> window opening onto the Atlantic<br />
Ocean, thalassotherapy <strong>de</strong>velopped in our region,<br />
and Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> alone boasts three very renowned<br />
establishments offering classical treatments – revitalising,<br />
young mother, anti stress, slimming – and<br />
special treatments – healthy back, light legs – with<br />
individual and group treatments – massage, mo<strong>de</strong>lling,<br />
jet baths and showers, seaweed wraps, marine<br />
muds. As wellness usually goes hand in hand<br />
with beauty, a large selection of beauty treatments<br />
is ad<strong>de</strong>d to thalassotherapy treatments, all of them<br />
always practised by caring, attentive and qualified<br />
staff.<br />
After the treatments, you have the opportunity to<br />
explore the island by bike, experience a watersport,<br />
walk along the beach, watch birds, visit a historical<br />
site, do some shopping: the choice is yours!<br />
Thanks to a remarkable environment, the variety of<br />
activities and such a special art of living, thalassotherapy<br />
is exceptional in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 15
16 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
ACCOmmODATION<br />
LUXURIOUs ANd TRAdITIONAL HOTELs<br />
If you wish to spend your holidays without caring about doing the<br />
cleaning or preparing meals, the hotel is the best option. There are more<br />
than thirty hotels ranging from the most luxurious to the simplest, but<br />
one thing is common to all - the warm welcome you will receive thus<br />
making you feel at home as soon as you arrive. Housed in character and<br />
charming buildings or recently-built ones, but always functional, most<br />
hotels are small structures comprising some thirty rooms: every year,<br />
regular guests are welcomed as if they were unique in a setting in which<br />
restrained elegance perva<strong>de</strong>s.<br />
Whether providing views of the ocean or nestled in a narrow flowery<br />
street, in peaceful verdant surroundings or at the heart of the busy harbour,<br />
the various hotels offer a wi<strong>de</strong> range of facilities and equipment:<br />
thalassotherapy, spa, massages, fitness room, swimming-pool, tennis<br />
courts, bike hire,… whatever your style of holiday, you will be spoilt for<br />
choice. And, of course, the restaurants of these hotels can be either sophisticated<br />
and gastronomic or simple and savoury, but there is always<br />
something for everyone.<br />
HOLIdAy COMPLEXEs<br />
ANd sELf-CATERING REsIdENCEs<br />
Three holiday complexes, a holiday park and more than ten self-catering<br />
resi<strong>de</strong>nces ranging from two to four stars: these structures are<br />
composed of about ten apartments or mini-villas that are tastefully<br />
<strong>de</strong>corated, and equipped with common facilities and amenities including<br />
a reception area, children’s play area, a laundry room, and eventually a<br />
swimming-pool or even a relaxing area. This is the i<strong>de</strong>al option if you are<br />
looking for a comfortable house or apartment providing both in<strong>de</strong>pen<strong>de</strong>nce<br />
and conviviality. Self-catering resi<strong>de</strong>nces are another option <strong>de</strong>signed<br />
for those who wish to be completely free. The apartments or houses<br />
located throughout the island but with a unique reservation contact<br />
are not part of a single resi<strong>de</strong>nce. Some houses have a walled-in<br />
gar<strong>de</strong>n or a terrace, sometimes a private swimming-pool, and they are<br />
situated besi<strong>de</strong> the sea or in a town centre. Other houses can accommodate<br />
about ten people for holidays with all your family and friends. And<br />
if, in spite of all these service provi<strong>de</strong>rs on offer, you have not found the<br />
house of your dreams yet, you can contact an estate agent.<br />
GUEsTHOUsEs<br />
A guest house is neither really a hotel nor really a self-catering accommodation.<br />
There are about thirty guesthouses throughout the island.<br />
In the heart of villages, among vineyards or at the seasi<strong>de</strong>, comfortable<br />
and refined houses represent haven of peace. Consisting of one to five<br />
bedrooms, this welcoming type of accommodation enables to discover<br />
the famed welcome and true i<strong>de</strong>ntity of the <strong>Ré</strong>tais people who offer you<br />
their hospitality during all your holiday. And they will let you discover<br />
the best restaurants and reveal the most beautiful places to explore;<br />
they can even advise on the best activities according to the weather<br />
conditions and your tastes.
There is accommodation to suit every taste and budget, tourist professionals<br />
wish to satisfy every visitor’s needs and are perfecting their offer.<br />
MObILE-HOMEs<br />
In Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>, there are about sixty campsites. Most of them are private establishments,<br />
the others are municipal or community ones. And as it is the case for traditional<br />
hotels, there are accommodation ratings ranging from one star to four<br />
stars. Most of them are located close to beaches. In recent years the word “campsite”<br />
has been replaced by “holiday park”, which really reveals the increasing<br />
popularity of this type of accommodation. Behind the words, the evolution<br />
of our guests is real: if there are a few emplacements for tents, mobile-homes<br />
and bungalows are above all for hire. Of all sizes and types of comfort, these<br />
<strong>de</strong>lightful and functional holiday homes are pettily <strong>de</strong>corated and equipped<br />
and they occupy an optimised surface area: no unused space! Anyway, weather<br />
is beautiful in summer and you will enjoy outdoor life… <strong>Holiday</strong> parks of<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> welcome numerous guests (from 20 for the smallest to 387 for the<br />
largest, with an average number of 200 people) on grounds that can have<br />
a surface area of up to 9 hectares. Today this type of accommodation features<br />
services which are almost the same as the services offered by hotels<br />
such as, for example, breakfast or half board. Not to mention facilities such<br />
as a swimming-pool (heated or not), children’s play areas and sports grounds<br />
(including ping-pong tables and pétanque ground), and sometimes fitness<br />
centres.<br />
HOLIdAy VILLAGEs<br />
There are a few holiday villages in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. These villages<br />
are comprised of chalets or mobile-homes and welcome<br />
mainly families during the French school holidays in spring<br />
and summer and sometimes during All Saints Day holidays.<br />
Outsi<strong>de</strong> school periods, they can also receive groups and<br />
seminars.<br />
<strong>Holiday</strong> villages are equipped with sporting facilities<br />
and offer all-inclusive services in their rates: half board and<br />
sometimes full board, activities for kids, workshops for adults,<br />
sporting activities, discovery excursions, themed evenings…<br />
Who are their guests? Mostly works councils, but also in<strong>de</strong>pen<strong>de</strong>nt<br />
travellers and above all French tourists. And regular<br />
visitors come back again and again as, whatever they like to<br />
do, they do it at their own pace.<br />
Do a survey around<br />
you...<br />
There is always one person who<br />
has or knows someone who has –<br />
or has had for a long time or not<br />
– a house in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> in which<br />
all the family and friends stay.<br />
And the holidays allow everyone<br />
to change their pace of life, live<br />
differently and see again their<br />
family and friends. Numerous<br />
holiday homes have become the<br />
meeting place for young generations<br />
who have built memories<br />
by meeting again and again year<br />
after year.<br />
A port of call<br />
liFESTylE & ACCOMMOdATION<br />
Camper vans<br />
Every year, Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> receives visitors<br />
travelling in camper vans but the island<br />
makes sure that regulations are strictly<br />
observed: the narrow alleyways are not<br />
adapted to traffic and parking camper<br />
vans in a classified site or a natural<br />
space is forbid<strong>de</strong>n at night. Where<br />
can camper vans be parked? There<br />
are some reserved sites at Rivedoux<br />
Plage, Saint Martin, Saint Clément <strong>de</strong>s<br />
Baleines or les Portes en <strong>Ré</strong>. That is<br />
the price to pay for preserving Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
for a very long time.<br />
Please see parking regulations<br />
in “Accommodation” central section on page 3.<br />
Exploring Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> from the sea, why not?… in or<strong>de</strong>r<br />
to receive watersports enthusiasts, there are wet docks in the harbours<br />
of Saint Martin and Ars and a dry dock in the harbour of la Flotte.<br />
After a whole day sailing alone on the ocean, it is very pleasant to stop<br />
at a port and find its particular activity before getting back to the cabin<br />
of the boat at nightfall. And what a happiness to wake up early in the<br />
morning with the jangling of anchor wires just before having a coffee in<br />
the harbour!<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 17
You will find all useful information<br />
in the ‘Gui<strong>de</strong> Pratique 2012’: it is available<br />
in Tourist Offices and our partners’<br />
establishments.<br />
18 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
3<br />
LEs CLÉs dU PATRIMOINE<br />
11<br />
exPloring tHe islAnd<br />
9<br />
5<br />
At Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>, you will experience great days spent sunbathing or soaking<br />
up some culture. Historical riches inclu<strong>de</strong> the vestiges of the Abbey of Les<br />
Châteliers where everything started in the Middle Ages. Not far away, the<br />
fort of La Prée and La <strong>Re</strong>doute of Rivedoux resonate with echoes of the<br />
island’s beleaguered past. Various museums present the evolution of the<br />
island: the museum of Platin retraces life in the island and the different<br />
connections to the continent, the ecomuseum of the salt marshland<br />
recounts the salt workers’ age-old expertise. And finally you will be short<br />
of breath when you discover the spectacular view over the island and…<br />
when you climb the steps to get to the top to the lighthouse of Les<br />
Baleines and the belltower of Ars. On the other hand, the belltower of<br />
the church of Saint Martin provi<strong>de</strong>s scenic views, in particular at sunset.<br />
‘LES CLéS Du PATRImOINE’ Pass<br />
The Pass<br />
is available<br />
in all Tourist<br />
Offices of<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
10<br />
‘Clés du Patrimoine’ Pass gives<br />
admission to 12 visits thus allowing<br />
you to discover Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>’s rich<br />
heritage.<br />
ToP BENEFiT:<br />
discount on the admission fees<br />
to the second and following sites<br />
(unless otherwise indicated).<br />
For the list of our partners,<br />
please visit:<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
or download the free app<br />
ILEDERE TOUR.<br />
Tell us what you think: your<br />
opinion is valued!<br />
8<br />
1<br />
4<br />
6<br />
12<br />
2<br />
7<br />
3<br />
5<br />
1 | musée ernest cognacq<br />
Hôtel <strong>de</strong> Clerjotte<br />
13, avenue Victor Bouthillier<br />
17410 SAINT MARTIN DE RÉ<br />
Tel. 05 46 09 21 22<br />
www.saint-martin-<strong>de</strong>-re.fr<br />
2 | Fort <strong>de</strong> la Prée<br />
17630 LA FLOTTE<br />
Tel. 01 45 88 17 00 ou 06 81 91 64 15<br />
www.fort-la-pree.com<br />
3 | Phare <strong>de</strong>s Baleines<br />
17590 ST CLÉMENT DES BALEINES<br />
Tel. 05 46 29 18 23<br />
www.lephare<strong>de</strong>sbaleines.fr<br />
4 | clocher<br />
<strong>de</strong> ste marie <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme<br />
17740 STE MARIE DE RÉ<br />
Tel. 05 46 30 22 92<br />
5 | ecomusée du marais salant<br />
Route <strong>de</strong> la Passe - BP 21<br />
17111 LOIX<br />
Tel./Fax 05 46 29 06 77<br />
www.marais-salant.com
4<br />
6 | maison du Platin<br />
4, cours Félix Faure<br />
17630 LA FLOTTE<br />
Tel./Fax 05 46 09 61 39<br />
www.maisonduplatin.fr<br />
7 | redoute <strong>de</strong> rivedoux<br />
VISITS BY ADVANCE BOOkING.<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme<br />
Place <strong>de</strong> la <strong>Ré</strong>publique<br />
17940 RIVEDOuX PLAGE<br />
Tel. 05 46 09 80 62<br />
www.rivedoux-plage.fr<br />
8 | A.n.c.r.e. maritaise<br />
63, cours <strong>de</strong>s Jarrières<br />
17740 STE MARIE DE RÉ<br />
Tel. 05 46 37 47 50<br />
www.ancremaritaise.fr<br />
9 | maison du Fier et<br />
réserve naturelle nationale<br />
<strong>de</strong> lilleau <strong>de</strong>s niges<br />
french bird protection league<br />
Le Vieux Port<br />
17880 LES PORTES EN RÉ<br />
Tel./Fax 05 46 29 50 74<br />
www.lilleau.niges.reserves-naturelles.org<br />
2<br />
6<br />
1 7<br />
12 SITES<br />
12 visits<br />
11<br />
10 | clocher observatoire<br />
17410 SAINT MARTIN DE RÉ<br />
Tel. 05 46 09 58 25<br />
11 | clocher d’Ars en ré<br />
Office <strong>de</strong> tourisme<br />
17590 ARS EN RÉ<br />
Tel. 05 46 29 46 09<br />
12 | Abbaye <strong>de</strong>s chateliers<br />
17630 LA FLOTTE<br />
10<br />
12<br />
ViSiTiNG MUsEUMs<br />
8<br />
9<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 19
20 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
CYCLINg<br />
paradise<br />
With the highest point of the island<br />
at 19 metres and over 100 kilometres<br />
of <strong>de</strong>dicated cycle paths, Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is<br />
the i<strong>de</strong>al place for bicycle enthusiasts.<br />
The bike is much in vogue nowadays<br />
since it is environmentally friendly with<br />
no use of fuel or carbone emissions.<br />
I<br />
f you have not brought your own equipment, a number<br />
of shops offer rental options in all villages. Are<br />
you visiting Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> on your own? The touring bike<br />
is for you. Do you usually do a lot of sport? The mountain<br />
bike is essential. You do not usually do a lot of sport: choose<br />
the electric bike. Are you visiting Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> with your partner?<br />
Take a tan<strong>de</strong>m. Are you visiting Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> with your children?<br />
According to their age, you have the choice between a tricycle<br />
for the more adventurous, a trailer bike or simply trailer for the<br />
less adventurous. It is not unusual to meet kids napping comfortably<br />
and sheltered from the wind and sun in their trailer<br />
while their parents are pedalling.
Why a bike?<br />
Early in the morning and late in the evening, outsi<strong>de</strong> rush<br />
hours, it is not unusual to meet the more energetic on a<br />
racing bike to keep in shape as riding a bike is really a sport.<br />
For other people, it is a way to go to the market, do shopping<br />
or have a drink in a café. During the summer season, most<br />
village centres are closed to traffic.<br />
It is above all a great way to explore the island and a great<br />
number of routes allow to discover the many faces of the<br />
region and the variety of its landscapes at your own pace:<br />
countrysi<strong>de</strong> and forest alternate with marshland and coastline<br />
among which historic vestiges and remarkable monuments<br />
can be viewed. Depending on the weather conditions,<br />
your courage or what you fancy doing – the choice is yours!<br />
Varied routes...<br />
From Saint Martin to La Couar<strong>de</strong>, a route of about twenty<br />
kilometres criss-crossing between vineyards and market<br />
gar<strong>de</strong>ns retrace the agricultural life of the island’s inhabitants.<br />
From La Couar<strong>de</strong> to Loix, the cycle path goes along the<br />
ocean and marshlands revealing the particular i<strong>de</strong>ntity of<br />
the ‘<strong>Ré</strong>tais’, both islan<strong>de</strong>rs and sailors.<br />
From La Couar<strong>de</strong> too, but as far as Les Portes en <strong>Ré</strong>, away<br />
from cars, the path goes through salt marshlands and afterwards<br />
oyster-farmers’ huts come into view. You will be able to<br />
sample oysters in an informal way. The path goes through the<br />
nature reserve of Lilleau <strong>de</strong>s Niges in which can be watched<br />
thousands of birds which are not very frightened…<br />
BikiNG ACTIVITIEs<br />
In the south, between Sablanceaux and Sainte Marie,<br />
passing through La Flotte, the fort of La Prée, the vestiges<br />
of the Abbey of Les Châteliers and the fortifications of Saint<br />
Martin provi<strong>de</strong> an insight into the rich historic past of the<br />
island.<br />
And then, between Saint Clément <strong>de</strong>s Baleines and Les<br />
Portes, in the sha<strong>de</strong> of the scented pine trees of the forest<br />
of Lizay, it is possible to leave your bike and look at the<br />
ocean from the wi<strong>de</strong> beach of La Conche and, eventually,<br />
go swimming.<br />
If you are tired, always bear in mind that there is a bus<br />
network to take you back to your <strong>de</strong>parture point. So, you<br />
can go by bike and come back by bus, or go by bus and<br />
come back by bike. This solution is rather practical if you<br />
plan to travel through the island along the 30-km cycle<br />
path: the notion of time is different when the exploration is<br />
synonymous with discovery and lazing around.<br />
For the list of our partners,<br />
please visit:<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
or download the free app<br />
ILEDERE TOUR.<br />
Tell us what you think: your<br />
opinion is valued!<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 21
The great outdoors...<br />
Pure air, fine weather, wi<strong>de</strong> natural spaces<br />
– there are so many ways to keep active in<br />
<strong>Ré</strong>!<br />
Roller, tennis, horse-riding and so many<br />
other sports… or simply walking or riding<br />
a bike!<br />
THEME wALkINg TOURS<br />
There are wild and magnificent places and beaches, and<br />
unspoilt natural spaces just waiting to be discovered by walkers.<br />
For the walkers’ comfort, our most beautiful sites, villages, forests,<br />
fields, and beaches have been marked and signposted. And as we<br />
know that time is a bit suspen<strong>de</strong>d when we walk, the average time<br />
for each walk is indicated. One never knows…<br />
topogui<strong>de</strong> of walking tours in Île <strong>de</strong> ré<br />
on sale at newsagents<br />
or in the E-Shop<br />
www.reservation-ile<strong>de</strong>re.com.<br />
22 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Bursting with<br />
energy!<br />
For the list of our partners,<br />
please visit:<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
or download the free app<br />
ILEDERE TOUR.<br />
Tell us what you think: your<br />
opinion is valued!
How does<br />
it work?<br />
See page 1.<br />
WHO SPEAkS ABOuT AN ISLAND,<br />
ALSO SPEAkS ABOuT WAVES AND WIND.<br />
Here is a paradise for watersports lovers<br />
whether they are beginners or professionals.<br />
REGATTAs<br />
The sailing centres of La Flotte, Saint Martin and<br />
Ars organise several regattas in which participate<br />
numerous cruising and race boats during the summer:<br />
between the months of June and August this<br />
year, 14 regattas gathered some 150 boats, that is<br />
to say more than 400 participants. Here, when we<br />
speak about regattas, we immediately associate<br />
them with Tofinou, the traditional sailing boat of<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. For 21 years, the Blue Wind Cup is the<br />
most famed summer event during which compete<br />
some thirty Tofinous. An excuse for a day out or a<br />
race with other boats - that is the spirit of the <strong>Ré</strong>tais<br />
regattas.<br />
KAyAKING<br />
For a classical boat trip, numerous clubs provi<strong>de</strong><br />
kayaks. For a more original boat trip, it is possible<br />
to rent a canoe to explore the salt marshlands<br />
near Loix. Peaceful and quiet trip, respectful of<br />
the environment, cradled by the noise of oars<br />
cutting through the water, by the calls of birds living<br />
in the marshlands or by the surprising jump of<br />
a fish: young and not so young, energetic and less<br />
energetic, this activity is open to all nature lovers.<br />
Watersports<br />
Sailing<br />
dinghy<br />
Sailboard, optimist, sailing<br />
dinghy or catamaran: any<br />
beginner or more experienced<br />
sailor will find lessons<br />
and training courses<br />
of his(her) choice offered<br />
by sailing schools and<br />
nautical centres set up in<br />
the island. For those who<br />
prefer the dry land, they<br />
can choose doing sand sailing<br />
as the wi<strong>de</strong> beaches at<br />
low ti<strong>de</strong> are perfect for this<br />
activity. you are never too<br />
old to start sailing!<br />
sURfING / KITEsURfING<br />
The waves of some beaches of the island attract<br />
surfing enthusiasts as this sport is benefiting from<br />
a new craze: they can plunge into the waves of the<br />
beach of Les Grenettes near Bois Plage, at Petit Bec<br />
and at the Pointe du Lizay at Les Portes en <strong>Ré</strong>. Introduction<br />
or improved techniques, a surfing school<br />
provi<strong>de</strong>s equipment rental and lessons at the beach<br />
of Gros Jonc at Bois Plage. A more recent and <strong>de</strong>veloping<br />
activity is kitesurfing which requires high<br />
winds, to pull up the kite, and space, to ensure safety.<br />
Kitesurfing schools are situated on the beach of<br />
Sablanceaux at Rivedoux, at the Pointe du Groin at<br />
Loix, and at Gros Jonc at Les Portes en <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
INTER-ÎLEs’ CRUIsEs<br />
ANd bOAT HIRE<br />
SAiliNG ACTIVITIEs<br />
Discovering an island from the sea is magical; from<br />
the pier of Saint Martin, motor boats offer several<br />
whole day excursions between Pertuis Breton and<br />
Pertuis d’Antioche. These boats dock at the foot of<br />
the towers of La Rochelle, the <strong>de</strong>parture point of a<br />
walking tour of the ramparts and harbour. They also<br />
dock at the wild and preserved island of Aix which<br />
is only accessible by the sea, and sail close to Fort<br />
Boyard, the “stone boat” built to <strong>de</strong>fend the arsenal<br />
of Rochefort.<br />
It also possible to hire for a few hours or for one or<br />
several days a catamarn with or without a skipper<br />
to sail around the island, discover the shoal of Le<br />
Bûcheron and the Fiers d’Ars.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 23
EACH CLUbs<br />
Le Bois plage en ré<br />
Club <strong>de</strong>s Gollandières<br />
Beach of Gollandières<br />
Tel. 05 46 09 27 61<br />
La Couar<strong>de</strong> sur mer<br />
les dauphins<br />
Beach of Peu Ragot<br />
La Flotte<br />
C.N.P.A.<br />
Beach of la Clavette<br />
Tel. 05 46 09 50 57<br />
Les portes en ré<br />
la Plage <strong>de</strong>s Enfants<br />
Beach of Gros Jonc<br />
rivedoux<br />
les Moussaillons<br />
South beach - Av. <strong>de</strong>s dunes<br />
sUPERVIsEd bEACHEs<br />
July - August<br />
Le Bois plage en ré<br />
Beach of Gros Jonc<br />
Beach of Petit Sergent<br />
La Couar<strong>de</strong> sur mer<br />
Beach of Peu Ragot<br />
La Flotte<br />
Beach of l’Arnérault<br />
rivedoux plage<br />
South beach<br />
24 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Beaches<br />
fROm THE NORTH TO THE SO<br />
<strong>Ré</strong>, an island of contrast, stretches<br />
its beaches along its Atlantic coast. it<br />
offers long dune ridges in the south,<br />
and small beaches with an urban feel<br />
in the north.<br />
from Rivedoux-Plage to Le bois-Plage<br />
As soon as you get to the island, a coastline comes into sight<br />
on either si<strong>de</strong> of Sablanceaux. On your right, after the bridge,<br />
the north beach of Rivedoux-Plage is <strong>de</strong>dicated to kitesurfing,<br />
an i<strong>de</strong>al place for this sport. On your left, the south beach<br />
provi<strong>de</strong>s a family, safe site accessible to all. It should be noted<br />
that there are two landmarks for lost children. A large boat<br />
and a chubby fish will be security guards of all kids aged 3-10<br />
years throughout the summer season.<br />
You can fish and swim <strong>de</strong>pending on ti<strong>de</strong>s at Montamer, in the<br />
district of Sainte Marie. You can surf at Les Grenettes… If you<br />
want to swim in high water, you should go to the beaches of<br />
Le Bois-Plage as several beaches are safe and accessible to all.<br />
The beach of Les Gollandières is equipped with beach volleyball<br />
nets for those who are fond of this sport.
uTH Of THE ISLAND<br />
from La Couar<strong>de</strong> to Les Portes,<br />
and to st-Clément<br />
You can have a picnic or a nap in the sha<strong>de</strong><br />
of the pine trees bor<strong>de</strong>ring the beach of<br />
Les Prises… nothing could be better! For<br />
fishing from the shore with trail bridge,<br />
go to Chanchardon just before Martray.<br />
The forest of La Combe à l’Eau is situated<br />
at the entry to Saint-Clément. Walk<br />
through the wood and then go swimming<br />
at the beach of La Loge. The more<br />
active will take a bike and ri<strong>de</strong> as far as La<br />
Conche <strong>de</strong>s Baleines to try the rollers at<br />
high ti<strong>de</strong>. Further on, there is La Patache,<br />
a small, wild and untamed beach.<br />
Loix, saint-Martin, La flotte<br />
At Loix, you can swim at Le Grouin headland,<br />
facing Les Ilates lighthouse appearing<br />
through the heat haze. At Saint-Martin,<br />
the beach of La Cible lies at the foot of the<br />
ramparts like a breach of nature. Here, the<br />
beach towel is replaced with the history<br />
book! And, La Flotte and its family beach<br />
of Arnerault, a few steps from the harbour,<br />
its cafés and ice-cream man!<br />
Beach regulations <strong>de</strong>pend on town<br />
councils.<br />
AN ISLAND<br />
for kids<br />
They can explore it on foot, by bicycle, and even on<br />
donkey back… And they never get lost or are in<br />
danger.<br />
dONKEys WITH TROUsERs Île <strong>de</strong> ré Living Symbols<br />
In 1860, so as to protect her donkey from diseases caused<br />
by biting insects, a <strong>Ré</strong>tais woman had the i<strong>de</strong>a to <strong>de</strong>sign<br />
pants to protect her animal’s legs, one pair in front, one<br />
behind. To create them, she used old red Vichy pattern curtain<br />
fabrics or grey striped mattress ticking. Even if donkeys<br />
do not work in the fields or salt marshes of the island any<br />
more, they still play their part in still wearing trousers and<br />
keeping traditions alive.<br />
In summer, at the park of La Barbette in Saint<br />
Martin, Cadichon, Papy, Dagobert, Ulysse<br />
and the other asses provi<strong>de</strong> an attraction<br />
to young and young at heart: kids become<br />
acquainted with this docile, intelligent animal<br />
(which can be educated but not trained,<br />
unlike horses), make ri<strong>de</strong>s, take photos<br />
with them. And <strong>Ré</strong>gis Léau has seen his little<br />
clients grow up and, when it is their turn to<br />
become parents, they come back with their<br />
children. The tradition is not dying!<br />
Fond<br />
of organised<br />
activities<br />
Children and their<br />
parents will be spoilt<br />
for choice!<br />
A great number of<br />
structures receive kids<br />
of all ages: beach clubs<br />
offering activities<br />
<strong>de</strong>signed to suit every<br />
age group, tennis clubs<br />
and many more.<br />
dONIN MERRy-GO-ROUNd<br />
‘A must<br />
www.ane-en-culotte.com,<br />
Worth a look!’<br />
Pierre and Joseph<br />
a Unique merry-go-round in ars en ré<br />
market<br />
Imagine a merry-go-round dating back to the fifties<br />
with a stage in place of the fairground entertainer.<br />
And, on the stage, a singer singing his own songs for<br />
3 minutes during which the turn lasts. You can find it<br />
in Ars en <strong>Ré</strong> marketplace every morning from June<br />
to early September.<br />
Music, holiday and charm of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> are the main<br />
ingredients of a special alchemy that makes young<br />
and old alike dream whatever their nationality.<br />
more...<br />
A ‘festibal’ is organized<br />
at La Couar<strong>de</strong><br />
in summer. This is<br />
inten<strong>de</strong>d for kids<br />
who can come and<br />
dance with their<br />
parents every<br />
Thursday evening.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 25
history<br />
& STORIES fOR kIDS...<br />
Beautiful and yet not so young, Île<br />
<strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> was born several thousands<br />
years ago. it was not only shaped by<br />
currents, the wind and sea, but also<br />
by men who had lived in the island.<br />
Since the Middle Ages, they have<br />
cultivated the land and lived on its<br />
produce, and seafood and fish.<br />
four small islands and ferns<br />
At the beginning, there were four small islands called Île <strong>de</strong>s<br />
Portes, Île <strong>de</strong> Loix, Île d’Ars and Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. Look at the map and<br />
you will see that they were situated around the villages bearing<br />
their names today.<br />
So, it was an archipelago that was originally known as Arica.<br />
Then, more than 1,300 years ago, the island was named Ratis,<br />
from the latin name of ferns covering the island. Ratis became<br />
Rhé, and then <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
26 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>
Monks and winegrowers<br />
In 1100, monks built an abbey, Notre Dame <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>, known as the<br />
‘Abbaye <strong>de</strong>s Châteliers”. It stood on the property of the lords of<br />
La Flotte, the Mauléon. It was pillaged by the English, burnt and<br />
then the stones were stolen in or<strong>de</strong>r to build the Fort <strong>de</strong> La Prée.<br />
The monks <strong>de</strong>veloped the island’s first economy by planting<br />
grapevines and selling the salt extracted from marshlands.<br />
A very coveted island!<br />
There had been numerous wars in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> during more than two<br />
centuries. Endless wars between England, Holland and France,<br />
but also between Protestants and Catholics. In 1625, SOUBISE, a<br />
French Huguenot lea<strong>de</strong>r, took possession of <strong>Ré</strong>. Catholics, comman<strong>de</strong>d<br />
by Duke of Guise, disapproved this occupation. He<br />
recruited the Dutch and English navies and organized a landing<br />
operation. In 1627, Louis XIII and Richelieu besieged the Huguenots<br />
at La Rochelle. Meanwhile, 5,000 English soldiers and 100<br />
English cavalrymen, un<strong>de</strong>r the or<strong>de</strong>rs of the Duke of Buckingham<br />
inva<strong>de</strong>d the island and besieged Saint Martin during five months.<br />
The Maréchal <strong>de</strong> TOIRAS, governor of the island, managed to hold<br />
out until the arrival of 3,000 soldiers who lan<strong>de</strong>d at the island by<br />
surprise. The blocka<strong>de</strong> was over but this so coveted island always<br />
nee<strong>de</strong>d <strong>de</strong>fending.<br />
sAINT MARTIN dE RÉ ON THE UNESCO wORLD HERITAgE LIST<br />
VAUbAN,<br />
the brilliant architect<br />
SToRy & HIsTORy<br />
The «Sun King», Louis XIV, did not like making<br />
wars as much as his pre<strong>de</strong>cessor. So, he<br />
appointed a 22-year old Marquis, Sébastien<br />
Leprestre <strong>de</strong> Vauban, the commissioner general<br />
of the kingdom’s fortifications. He was<br />
entrusted with constructing <strong>de</strong>fensive buildings<br />
in or<strong>de</strong>r to <strong>de</strong>feat France’s enemies.<br />
The king’s primary purpose was to prevent<br />
them from attacking France. During four<br />
years, Vauban had built 6-kilometre starshaped<br />
ramparts that were nine metres<br />
high, huge enough to discourage the most<br />
dare<strong>de</strong>vil soldiers! All the population of the<br />
island was protected behind those ramparts,<br />
a small secure harbour allowed to travel<br />
to the mainland in the greatest secrecy,<br />
and a cita<strong>de</strong>l which was a city insi<strong>de</strong> a city<br />
sheltered weapon and food supplies. Impregnable!<br />
The fortifications of Saint-Martin<br />
<strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> were inscribed on the<br />
uNESCo World Heritage list in<br />
2008. A distinction characterizing<br />
a site to be respected and to hand<br />
down intact to future generations.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 27
PRACTICAL iNFo<br />
THOsE WHO sPEAK<br />
AbOUT Us...<br />
COMMENTS FROM INTERNET<br />
USERS, FACEBOOk FRIENDS<br />
Jacques - Ars<br />
We have discovered Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
when we were spending our<br />
holidays in Ars. Those authentic<br />
holidays are memorable. Everybody<br />
respects nature: it is a<br />
change from southern regions.<br />
odile<br />
We have been spending our<br />
summer holidays in this beautiful<br />
island for more than 10<br />
years, and we have exceptional<br />
memories with our family,<br />
friends… in short, Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is<br />
our small paradise!<br />
magalie - la Flotte<br />
our favourite harbour is la<br />
Flotte. We like going to the market<br />
in the morning, and have<br />
breakfast at a quaysi<strong>de</strong> café in<br />
the sunshine.<br />
michèle - saint martin<br />
The light on the harbour of<br />
Saint Martin in the morning…<br />
<strong>de</strong>lphine<br />
ornithology in the reserve at<br />
twilight, the Ars sea wall near<br />
Fier, la lasse, donin and the<br />
market at Ars, the beaches at les<br />
Portes, peaceful Saint Clément…<br />
it’s so difficult to list 23 years of<br />
memories. in a word: magical!<br />
sophie - le Bois Plage<br />
i always go to Bois-Plage<br />
because the beaches are nicer<br />
and the market bigger. Moreover,<br />
it is situated in the heart of<br />
the island, and i can travel by<br />
bike all over the island! And<br />
campsites are very good!<br />
BE A FAN<br />
facebook.com/ile<strong>de</strong>re<br />
28 | holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
How long is the island?<br />
How wi<strong>de</strong> is it?<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is 30km in length and 5km at its wi<strong>de</strong>st<br />
point.<br />
How many villages are there in Île<br />
<strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>?<br />
There are 10 villages and therefore 10 Tourist<br />
Office on Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> Tourisme is in<br />
charge of the promotion of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> as a whole.<br />
How can we get to Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>?<br />
by ferry?<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is connected to the mainland by a<br />
3km-toll bridge constructed in 1988. The entrance<br />
to the bridge is situated at La Rochelle.<br />
How much is the bridge toll? do<br />
visitors have to pay when entering<br />
and leaving the island?<br />
The bridge toll costs €8 in the winter season<br />
(12 September to 19 June), and €16 in the summer<br />
season (20 June to 11 September).<br />
The toll is situated at the entrance to the Île<br />
<strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> bridge (LA ROCHELLE si<strong>de</strong>). There is no<br />
charge on the way back.<br />
Is the bridge accessible 7 days a<br />
week and 24 hours a day?<br />
The bridge is open 24 hours a day all year round.<br />
Frequently<br />
A s k e d<br />
questions<br />
practical<br />
informations<br />
Is there a bus service from the<br />
railway station to Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>? How<br />
long does it take? How much is it?<br />
Two bus services run between La Rochelle and<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>:<br />
«Kéolis - Les mouettes», bus line n° 3. This bus<br />
leaves the railway station to reach Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. It<br />
serves all the villages of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> (<strong>de</strong>pending<br />
on timetables).<br />
«ré Express». During the summer season, this<br />
bus corresponds with the time of arrival of<br />
some trains including trains from Paris. It stops<br />
on request and is therefore direct and faster.<br />
The journey time <strong>de</strong>pends on the village you<br />
want to go to. The trip can take from 25 minutes<br />
(Rivedoux-Plage) to 2 hours.<br />
Each ticket costs €4.60 (price for 2011) and has<br />
to be bought directly from the bus driver.<br />
Taxi numbers?<br />
Please telephone 05 46 09 00 55 for a <strong>de</strong>tailed<br />
list of taxi numbers.<br />
Can we travel by car on Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>?<br />
The island is accessible to cars like on the mainland.<br />
Travelling by car is not forbid<strong>de</strong>n even if it<br />
is simpler and more pleasant to travel by bike,<br />
and more particularly in summer!<br />
Are cycle paths safe?<br />
Cycle paths start at the bridge of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. There<br />
are some 100km of cycle paths in the island and<br />
they are away from roads for total safety.
Are there any supermarkets in Île<br />
<strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>?<br />
Yes, it is very easy to shop for groceries in the<br />
various supermarkets of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. You can find<br />
grocery stores and supermarkets all over the<br />
island, from the north edge to the south edge.<br />
Where can we find the best<br />
beaches?<br />
The best beaches can be found on the southern<br />
si<strong>de</strong> of the island (Le Bois-Plage-en-<strong>Ré</strong> and La<br />
Couar<strong>de</strong>-sur-Mer), and the northern si<strong>de</strong> between<br />
Saint-Clément-<strong>de</strong>s-Baleines and Les Portes-en-<strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
What is worth visiting in the island?<br />
What are the major places of interest?<br />
Heritage?<br />
Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> is an interesting place to explore with<br />
its rich heritage and cultural venues: Vauban fortifications<br />
of Saint-Martin-<strong>de</strong>-<strong>Ré</strong>, museums and<br />
ecomuseum, Les Baleines lighthouse, Natural<br />
<strong>Re</strong>serve of Lilleau <strong>de</strong>s Niges, and so many other<br />
less famous places. Each Tourist Office of the<br />
island will be pleased to make you discover its<br />
village and heritage. Don’t hesitate to contact<br />
Tourist Offices for further <strong>de</strong>tailed information.<br />
Which part of the island is the best<br />
for an accommodation?<br />
On the western si<strong>de</strong> of the island are situated the<br />
seasi<strong>de</strong> resorts including Le Bois-Plage-en-<strong>Ré</strong><br />
and La Couar<strong>de</strong>-sur-Mer. You will find long, fine<br />
sandy beaches. The northern si<strong>de</strong> is a wil<strong>de</strong>r area<br />
(Loix, Ars-en-<strong>Ré</strong>, Saint-Clément-<strong>de</strong>s-Baleines,<br />
Les Portes-en-<strong>Ré</strong>): salt marshes, woods, Natural<br />
<strong>Re</strong>serve of Lilleau <strong>de</strong>s Niges. On the eastern si<strong>de</strong><br />
of the island are situated the harbours of Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
(La Flotte, Saint-Martin-<strong>de</strong>-<strong>Ré</strong> and Ars-en-<strong>Ré</strong>) providing<br />
a characteristic atmosphere. These are harbours<br />
bustling with life, particularly in summer.<br />
ConfErEnCEs & Groups<br />
What is the average price of a<br />
hotel room? Are there any hotel<br />
chains like b&b, formule 1, etc.?<br />
Prices per night can range from €60 to €500<br />
for luxury hotels. There are no hotel chains<br />
of this type on Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>. You can find several<br />
hotels and other types of accommodation<br />
which are transmitted from generation to<br />
generation.<br />
Is fishing from the shore allowed<br />
in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>?<br />
Fishing from the shore is allowed in Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong>.<br />
However, it is recommen<strong>de</strong>d to follow a few<br />
rules that will ensure the sustainability of biodiversity<br />
resources in the foreshore: observe<br />
the minimum regulatory sizes for each species,<br />
observe the maximum quantity of 5kg, use<br />
traditional tools and do not move pebbles.<br />
For further <strong>de</strong>tailed information, a comprehensive<br />
leaflet is available free of charge in<br />
any of the 10 Tourist Offices of the island. You<br />
can also find small measuring <strong>de</strong>vices allowing<br />
you to measure the sizes of shellfish.<br />
Ask about forbid<strong>de</strong>n places (temporarily or<br />
<strong>de</strong>finitely) for fishing from the shore.<br />
Explore and make your colleagues<br />
explore an exceptional area enabling you<br />
to combine business and relaxation.<br />
Your tailor-madE staY<br />
Contact us and we’ll help you organise your projects<br />
au<strong>de</strong>.guillemine@ile<strong>de</strong>re.com | Tel. 05 46 09 91 37<br />
www.ile<strong>de</strong>re.com<br />
PRACTICAL iNFo<br />
THOsE WHO sPEAK<br />
AbOUT Us...<br />
COMMENTS FROM INTERNET<br />
USERS, FACEBOOk FRIENDS<br />
evelyne - loix<br />
Mussels and French fries in<br />
Pineau sauce in the market<br />
square at loix… Sheer bliss!<br />
We will come back.<br />
carine<br />
This island is <strong>de</strong>ar, very <strong>de</strong>ar<br />
to me. i loved it when i was<br />
a baby, a child, a teenage,<br />
and then a woman! And my<br />
children also love this “happy<br />
island”. Thank you, Mum and<br />
dad, for gathering us every<br />
year and making us enjoy life<br />
even for a weekend break.<br />
maryse<br />
Superb… with its white-washed<br />
houses and hollyhocks!<br />
Yan<br />
Riding a bike through vineyards<br />
and marshlands, on<br />
cycle paths along the ocean,…<br />
everything is a <strong>de</strong>light for me<br />
on the island!<br />
chantal<br />
My husband says “heaven on<br />
earth”, i like riding a bike on<br />
the cycle paths in the morning,<br />
take rabbits by surprise, birds<br />
at sunrise, fishing from the<br />
shore, catching mussels and<br />
clams,… Going to the market,<br />
walking on the quaysi<strong>de</strong> in St<br />
Martin, eating an ice-cream<br />
at la Martinière, going to the<br />
beach, finding a quiet spot<br />
far from the crowd either on<br />
the beach or in the wood...<br />
eating good potatoes, sampling<br />
Pineau… in short, i could write<br />
my <strong>Ré</strong>tais memories on pages<br />
and pages…<br />
BE A FAN<br />
facebook.com/ile<strong>de</strong>re<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 29
HOW TO REACH uS?<br />
TOLL-bRIdGE CONNECTION<br />
La Rochelle is located just in the middle of the<br />
French Atlantic coast, halfway between Nantes<br />
and Bor<strong>de</strong>aux. The island is connected to La<br />
Rochelle by a 3km-long toll bridge constructed<br />
in 1988. The bridge is open 24 hours a day<br />
7 days a week.<br />
An eco-tax will be introduced on 1 January<br />
2012. Frequent travelling cards can be<br />
bought in the building situated before the<br />
toll. The office is open daily from 5.30am to<br />
9.30pm.<br />
Prices:<br />
For cars / motor caravans:<br />
Winter season (12/09 to 19/06 inclu<strong>de</strong>d): €8<br />
Summer season (20/06 to 11/09 inclu<strong>de</strong>d): €16<br />
For pe<strong>de</strong>strians and bicycles:<br />
There is no toll for pe<strong>de</strong>strians and cyclists.<br />
Paths for pe<strong>de</strong>strians and cyclists are <strong>de</strong>dicated,<br />
safe and separate ways.<br />
For further <strong>de</strong>tails, please visit:<br />
www.charente-maritime.fr<br />
by RAIL<br />
<strong>Re</strong>gular daily train services operate from<br />
Nantes, Bor<strong>de</strong>aux and Paris-Montparnasse<br />
(TGV Atlantique). The journey time from Paris<br />
to La Rochelle is un<strong>de</strong>r 3 hours.<br />
SNCF information: 3635<br />
and tel.: +33 (0) 8 92 35 35 35<br />
www.voyages-sncf.com<br />
by bUs<br />
KéOLIS - LES MOUETTES<br />
Buses of line n° 3 are:<br />
At LA ROCHELLE :<br />
• SNCF railway station<br />
• RTCR coach station - Place <strong>de</strong> Verdun<br />
• Airport (July-August)<br />
• ‘Belvédère’ (car-park situated just before the<br />
toll of the bridge)<br />
During the summer season, “<strong>Ré</strong> Express” buses<br />
run from the railway station and stop on<br />
request. The journey time is shorter.<br />
Advance booking is not necessary.<br />
Tickets can be bought directly from the bus<br />
driver, at any agency of Les Mouettes network,<br />
any point of sale of Les Mouettes network, or<br />
at SNCF railway station. Bus passes are available<br />
for one day, one week, one month<br />
or one year.<br />
More information from: +33 (0) 811 36 17 17<br />
(cost of a local call from a land line)<br />
www.lesmouettes-transport.com<br />
the «rtCr» bus compagny (summer season)<br />
RTCR runs a bus service from La Rochelle.<br />
Entry to Île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> (June, July, August).<br />
And, in July and August, a specially equipped<br />
“bike bus” transporting your bike runs from<br />
Place <strong>de</strong> Verdun at Sablanceaux-Plage.<br />
More information from:<br />
+33 (0)5 46 34 02 22<br />
www.rtcr.fr<br />
CAR RENTAL<br />
RELAIS EUROPCAR<br />
Garage Beauregard – Ars-en-<strong>Ré</strong><br />
Tel. +33 (0) 5 46 51 83 10<br />
ÎlE dE RÉ GETTING HERE<br />
by TAXI<br />
Numerous taxis are available to take you at the<br />
railway station or airport.<br />
A <strong>de</strong>tailed list is available<br />
on +33 (0) 5 46 09 00 55<br />
TRANS’AUTONOMIE<br />
Tel. +33 (0) 5 46 67 02 73 / +33 (0) 6 68 94 21 06<br />
BEATRICE TAXI<br />
Tel. +33 (0) 5 46 07 69 48 / +33 (0) 6 24 77 27 49<br />
So for transport of persons.<br />
by sEA<br />
3 marinas:<br />
ARS : 05 46 29 25 10<br />
port.arsenre@mairie17.com<br />
LA FLOTTE : +33 (0) 5 46 09 67 66<br />
portlaflotte@orange.fr<br />
SAINT-MARTIN : +33 (0) 5 46 09 26 69<br />
portsaintemartin<strong>de</strong>re@wanadoo.fr<br />
by AIR<br />
La roCHELLE-ILE DE rE aIrport<br />
Tél. +33 (0) 5 46 42 30 26<br />
www.larochelle.aeroport.fr<br />
For <strong>de</strong>stinations served,<br />
please see advertisement on left page.<br />
holidays île <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> | 31
DEPOSIT<br />
un dimanche à la mer - 1 route <strong>de</strong> St-Martin<br />
La Couar<strong>de</strong> sur Mer - 05 46 29 67 08<br />
www.french-atlantic-island.com<br />
Indian Summer - 37 rue du Havre<br />
Ars en <strong>Ré</strong> - 05 46 37 84 29<br />
Le Shop - 3, rue du Baron <strong>de</strong> Chantal<br />
St-Martin <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong> - 05 46 35 03 44
Dernières modifications le 25/10/11 sur indications <strong>de</strong> la Communauté <strong>de</strong> Communes.<br />
N<br />
Pointe du Lizay<br />
12<br />
Plage du Marchais<br />
LES PORTES EN RÉ<br />
Forêt domaniale<br />
du Lizay<br />
Phare <strong>de</strong>s<br />
Baleines<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Conche<br />
Plage du Gros Jonc<br />
3 km<br />
W<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Loge<br />
La Rivière<br />
13 13<br />
Villeneuve<br />
10 10<br />
Le Gillieux<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> l'Anse<br />
du Fourneau<br />
4.3 km<br />
11 11<br />
Le Godinand<br />
1.8 km<br />
3.8 km<br />
Pointe du Grouin<br />
E<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong><br />
Trousse-Chemise<br />
Forêt <strong>de</strong><br />
Trousse<br />
Chemise<br />
Le Chabot<br />
LOIX<br />
La Patache<br />
La Tricherie<br />
Le Griveau<br />
Tour <strong>de</strong>s Ilates<br />
Pointe du Fier<br />
2.8 km<br />
88<br />
SAINT CLÉMENT DES BALEINES<br />
ARS EN RÉ<br />
4.2 km<br />
Forêt domaniale<br />
<strong>de</strong> la Combe à l'Eau<br />
S<br />
La Criée<br />
14 14<br />
Le Port<br />
99<br />
Fosse <strong>de</strong> Loix<br />
Chenal du Goisil<br />
22 22<br />
Les Grands<br />
Marais<br />
15 15<br />
SAINT MARTIN DE RÉ<br />
Le Boutillon<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Charge Neuve<br />
La Passe<br />
8.5 km<br />
16 16<br />
66 20<br />
Grignon<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Cible<br />
55<br />
77<br />
Le Martray<br />
La Prée<br />
6 km<br />
1.5 km<br />
Anse du Martray<br />
Pointe <strong>de</strong> Grignon<br />
La Moulinatte<br />
Forêt domaniale<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong>s Prises <strong>de</strong> Bois Henri IV<br />
LA COUARDE SUR MER<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Clavette<br />
LA FLOTTE<br />
Pointe <strong>de</strong> Chanchardon<br />
4 km<br />
Les Marattes<br />
2.5 km<br />
25<br />
Plage du Peu Ragot<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> l'Arnérault<br />
44<br />
Les Maraises<br />
33<br />
Le Roulant<br />
Le Marais<br />
Le Morinant<br />
Les Chateliers<br />
2.5 km<br />
2.8 km<br />
La Grainetière<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Pergola<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong>s Aneries<br />
Plage du Petit Sergent<br />
22<br />
Bellevue<br />
21 21<br />
17 17<br />
LE BOIS PLAGE EN RÉ<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong>s Gollandières<br />
Les Caillotières<br />
Les Evières<br />
5 km<br />
Les Caillaises<br />
7.5 km<br />
Plage du Pas <strong>de</strong>s Boeufs<br />
Plage du Gros Jonc<br />
La Rochelle<br />
<strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Airport<br />
Towards La Rochelle<br />
Bridge 3 km<br />
Les Courneaux<br />
Be careful! Very dangerous intersection!<br />
RIVEDOUX PLAGE<br />
Les Bragauds<br />
Be careful! Intersection!<br />
Plage Nord<br />
4.1 km<br />
Chanchardon<br />
11<br />
outdistance in kilometers<br />
Cycle paths Common roads<br />
Roads<br />
Sablanceaux<br />
Les Varennes<br />
La Rochelle<br />
Les Grenettes<br />
23 23<br />
La Beurelière<br />
Les Breuils<br />
LA NOUE<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong>s Grenettes<br />
18 18<br />
Whether by bike or car, I always obey the Highway Co<strong>de</strong>!<br />
Plage Sud<br />
24 24<br />
Le Défens<br />
Les Censes<br />
19 19<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> Montamer<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Salée<br />
Plage <strong>de</strong> la Basse Benaie<br />
Plage Notre-Dame<br />
Pointe <strong>de</strong> Chauveau<br />
SAINTE MARIE DE RÉ<br />
17 Coopérative du Bois Plage<br />
18 L'A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise<br />
19 Ecluses à poissons<br />
20 Embarquement croisières inter-îles<br />
21 Fort La Prée<br />
22 Coopérative <strong>de</strong>s sauniers <strong>de</strong> l'<strong>Ile</strong> <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
9 Site du Fier d'Ars<br />
10 Maison du Fier,<br />
<strong>Ré</strong>serve <strong>de</strong> Lilleau <strong>de</strong>s Niges<br />
11 Bois <strong>de</strong> Trousse Chemise<br />
12 Forêt du Lizay<br />
13 Phare <strong>de</strong>s Baleines, Ecluses à poissons<br />
14 Port d'Ars<br />
Chauveau<br />
1 Port <strong>de</strong> Rivedoux<br />
2 Abbaye <strong>de</strong>s Châteliers<br />
3 Port <strong>de</strong> La Flotte<br />
4 Ecomusée "la Maison du Platin"<br />
5 Cita<strong>de</strong>lle <strong>de</strong> Saint-Martin<br />
6 Port et Clocher <strong>de</strong> St-Martin,<br />
Musée Ernest Cognacq<br />
7 Chenal du Goisil à La Couar<strong>de</strong><br />
8 Ecomusée et site <strong>de</strong>s marais salants<br />
Montgomery-ouest © <strong>Re</strong>production meme partielle interdite<br />
23 Fort <strong>de</strong> La <strong>Re</strong>doute<br />
24 Clocher <strong>de</strong> Sainte Marie <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
25 Centre culturel <strong>de</strong> La Maline<br />
15 Clocher d'Ars<br />
16 Huitrière <strong>de</strong> <strong>Ré</strong><br />
Thalassotherapy centers<br />
Harbour<br />
Fishing from the shore<br />
<strong>Re</strong>markable site / Panoramic view<br />
Supervised beach<br />
Beach<br />
Angling<br />
Centre of village Water sport<br />
Beach wheelchairs "Hippocampe" or Tiralos available at first-aid posts in July and August.<br />
1 km 1km 1km<br />
Echelle<br />
In blue: Beach access ramp. Audioplage