Tourism in Saint-Martin-de-Ré
On the northern coast of the island, Saint-Martin-de-Ré is considered the historic capital of the Île de Ré and is among the must-see tourist spots in Charente-Maritime. Its fortified walls and harbor, which have been active since the Middle Ages, make it an essential destination during your stay on the island. Numerous remarkable buildings in the village bear witness to Saint-Martin-de-Ré’s long history: from medieval half-timbered houses to Renaissance-style mansions and elegant 18th-century bourgeois residences.
If you’re spending your vacation in a hotel near Saint-Martin-de-Ré, don’t miss the Vauban citadel: this military city, built in the 17th century under Louis XIV, was designed to shelter the island’s entire population in the event of an attack. Today, the walls are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A highlight of your visit to Saint-Martin is climbing to the top of the bell tower observatory, which offers a unique panorama of the city, its fortifications, and the ocean. Another must-see is the Ernest Cognacq Museum, an ideal place to learn about the history and traditions of the Île de Ré. The museum houses archaeological collections, as well as tools, clothing, everyday accessories, ceramics, and works of art.
You can learn a lot about Saint-Martin’s history as a gateway to overseas penal colonies. Among the iconic tourist attractions in Saint-Martin-de-Ré are the delightful "donkeys in trousers," which can be seen at the Parc de la Barbette.
What to Do in Saint-Martin-de-Ré?
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is one of the ten villages that make up the Île de Ré. The village is known for its marina and fortifications and is also appreciated for its peaceful alleys, ideal for family or friends' strolls. You can explore the bike paths along the sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast and through the salt marshes of the Charente-Maritime department in the Poitou-Charentes region. The Fortifications: The Marquis de Vauban relied on plans drawn up by engineer Ferry to publish the "Instructions on the Fortifications of Saint-Martin" in 1681. The ramparts were built between 1681 and 1691. Today, they are one of the must-see sites of French memorial tourism, especially since their structure has remained nearly unchanged.
- The Citadel As part of the ramparts, the Citadel housed garrisons stationed on the Île de Ré in the 17th century before becoming a penal colony in 1873.
- The Port A central feature of the village, the port is protected by the ramparts and a seawall at its entrance. It offers over 260 berths, including around 50 reserved for visiting yachtsmen.
- The BeachThe Atlantic Ocean beach is a relaxing spot for the entire family. Children will especially enjoy a stroll in the Barbette Park, accompanied by the island’s mascots—donkeys in trousers. The beach is also close to a mini-golf course, carousels, and numerous attractions for young visitors.
Restaurants in Saint-Martin-de-Ré
In Saint-Martin-de-Ré, you can find a variety of restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.
Les Embruns
This is one of the best spots on the Île de Ré to enjoy seafood or fish dishes.
- Unique menu: €32
- Address: 6, rue Chay-Morin
O Parloir
O Parloir showcases French cuisine, serving a variety of seafood such as oysters or sardine rillettes.
- Menus: €29.80 to €38.90
- À la carte: around €22
- Address: 20, cours Vauban
Le Tout du Cru
This establishment also serves fish and seafood, including oysters, clams, almonds, and whelks.
- Fine Ré oysters: €10 to €29
- Tasting platter for two: €19 to €29
- Address: 16, quai Job-Foran
Ben-Hur Char à Huîtres
The restaurant offers oysters, langoustines, shrimp, and more.
- Oysters: €8.50 to €16.50 per dozen
- Whelks with homemade mayo: €7.50
- Squid with chorizo: €11.50
- Address: Parc de la Barbette
Bike Rental in Saint-Martin-de-Ré
YouToo: Avenue Victor Bouthillier Les vélos de Mathilde: 8 Avenue Victor Bouthillier. Cycland: Rue de Sully.
The Île de Ré, with its picturesque landscapes and laid-back charm, is seemingly made to be explored by bike. Saint-Martin-de-Ré, in particular, serves as the perfect starting point for countless cycling adventures. Embracing the freedom of two wheels here means immersing yourself fully in the natural and cultural treasures of the region.
Indeed, one of the major highlights of Saint-Martin and the Île de Ré in general is its extensive network of cycling paths. Well-maintained and safe, these trails wind through fields, salt marshes, forests, and along the coastline, offering cyclists of all levels the chance to enjoy their rides to the fullest.
One of the most popular rides takes you through the salt marshes. These shimmering expanses of water, bordered by mounds of white salt, present a unique spectacle. Cycling this route allows visitors to observe the work of salt workers, artisans who carry on the tradition of salt harvesting, while also enjoying the rich wildlife, including the wading birds that frequent these habitats.
For sea lovers, the coastal bike path is a must. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the opportunity to take refreshing breaks at secluded beaches or secret coves.
From Saint-Martin, it is also easy to venture out to other charming towns and villages on the island. Ars-en-Ré, La Couarde-sur-Mer, and Les Portes-en-Ré are just a few of the accessible destinations, each with its unique character and beauty waiting to be discovered.
Beach in Saint-Martin-de-Ré
La Cible beach is a favorite spot for many families visiting Saint-Martin-de-Ré, especially since lifeguards are on duty during the summer, from July 1 to August 31. Located just a few blocks from the village center, it offers rental cabins. After swimming, visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments on the beach restaurant's terrace. The Tourist Office ensures that this surveillance is precise, aiming to anticipate and inform visitors “in real time about any pollution risks.” The organization also guarantees the quality of bathing waters throughout the year.
Vauban’s Fortifications
The Vauban fortifications are the hallmark of Saint-Martin-de-Ré and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. From above, the star-shaped design protecting the village with its 14 kilometers of ramparts becomes strikingly visible. Built between 1681 and 1691 during the reign of Louis XIV, Vauban’s fortifications were designed to protect the entire Ré population in the event of a siege.
Walking along these ramparts, you are immediately struck by the thickness of the walls, the imposing bastions, and the half-moon structures, which were once key defensive elements. The ingenious design of these fortifications, with carefully calculated angles and curves, aimed to provide maximum visibility and facilitate crossfire to repel attackers. Beyond their defensive purpose, the fortifications today offer breathtaking views of the town, the port, and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Port
At the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the port is a crossroads of stories, cultures, and activities that reflect the vibrant soul of the village. Once a strategic hub for trade and defense, the port is now a lively spot, captivating visitors with its charm and energy. Furthermore, the port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré is highly popular among boaters and remains one of the most renowned ports in France.
If you feel like setting sail, hop aboard a boat for excursions to Fort Boyard, Île d’Aix, or La Rochelle.
All around the port, café and restaurant terraces invite you to sit down, enjoy a meal or a drink, and watch the maritime activity. It’s a spectacle in itself, especially during the summer months when the port comes alive with musicians, street performers, and tourists from all over the world.
The Church Tower Observatory
Towering over the Saint-Martin-de-Ré landscape with its elegant silhouette, the Church of Saint-Martin stands as a silent witness to centuries past. This building, whose history is deeply intertwined with the village, is more than just a place of worship: it is a symbol of faith, history, and architecture. The first thing that captures the eye when approaching this church is undoubtedly its bell tower. Standing at an impressive height, it once served as a landmark for sailors navigating the tumultuous waters of the Atlantic. Its walls have withstood the ravages of time and elements, and today, it offers the boldest visitors the chance to climb to the top of the observation tower to enjoy an exceptional panorama of Saint-Martin and its surroundings.
Today, beyond its religious role, the church is a cultural center of Saint-Martin. Concerts, exhibitions, and various events are regularly held there, reflecting the community’s commitment to preserving and promoting this exceptional heritage.
Ernest Cognacq Museum
In the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the Ernest Cognacq Museum invites visitors to delve into the rich history of the Île de Ré. Established thanks to the generosity of Ernest Cognacq, a renowned French philanthropist and businessman, this museum is a treasure trove for history, culture, and art enthusiasts. The building itself is an architectural gem, combining classical elegance with a profound historical heritage. Formerly the Hôtel de Clerjotte, the structure exemplifies 17th-century architecture, immersing visitors in a solemn atmosphere. On the ground floor of the Hôtel de Clerjotte, a Gothic-style building, thematic rooms showcase the museum’s diverse collections: ceramics, fine arts, textiles, maritime artifacts, and ship models. The museum experience is enriched with workshops, lectures, and activities tailored for both adults and younger audiences.
Discover Local Gastronomy
Gastronomy often reflects a region’s history, culture, and traditions. In Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the local flavors offer a sensory journey, a tribute to the ocean, the fertile land of the island, and the essence of French culinary art. Exploring the gastronomy of this part of the Île de Ré is to embrace the richness of its heritage.
Unsurprisingly, the proximity of the Atlantic Ocean brings an abundance of seafood delights to Saint-Martin-de-Ré. Oysters, especially those from the Aiguillon Bay, are a true institution. Fresh and briny, they are best enjoyed plain or with a splash of lemon. Other seafood, such as mussels, clams, and scallops, also hold a special place in the local cuisine.
The island’s salt marshes provide another treasure—salt. Hand-harvested by skilled salt workers, this salt boasts a crunchy texture and a unique flavor that beautifully enhances dishes.
Grown in the sandy soils of the island, the small potatoes of Île de Ré are renowned for their delicate taste and creamy texture. They pair perfectly with seafood or can be savored simply with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of fleur de sel.
How can one forget the famous "Tourteau fromager"? This cheesecake features a characteristic black crust and a soft, slightly aromatic center. Salted butter caramels, biscuits, and other local sweets are also perfect treats for moments of indulgence.
When visiting Saint-Martin-de-Ré, it is essential to stop by small restaurants, bistros, and local markets to enjoy the full array of what the island has to offer. Each bite and sip is a reminder of tradition, a love for the land, and the art of living on Île de Ré.
Don’t wait any longer—book a room in one of the finest hotels on Île de Ré to fully enjoy your next vacation in Charente-Maritime.