02.03.2013 Views

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

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

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

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!