Sainte Marie de Ré

SAINTE-MARIE-DE-RÉ ON THE ÎLE DE RÉ IN CHARENTE-MARITIME

Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is the oldest village on the Île de Ré. Situated on the island’s southern Atlantic coast, it is known for its agricultural and wine-making activities and its wild coastline. Set between sea and vineyards, it lies between the villages of Rivedoux-Plage and Le Bois Plage en Ré. The village has preserved, restored and maintained its fish locks, which are still in use today during the tides.

The beaches of Sainte Marie de Ré

Sainte-Marie-de-Ré’s sandy beaches are also popular with surfers. Indeed, the wild coastline is ideal for this water sport. The waves of the Grenettes spot are the most famous, as is the Montamer beach.

When it comes to nature, this village in the Rhaetian region has plenty to surprise you. Classified as a “green resort”, you can enjoy beautiful walks in the heart of unspoilt nature.

The Association “l’Ancre Maritaise” will guide you on a variety of tours through the forest, the village or along the beaches. During your camping vacation on the Ile de Ré, don’t forget to visit Sainte Marie de Ré, La Noue and its pretty Place des Tilleuls, the vineyards and the fish locks.

Places to visit in Sainte Marie de Ré

Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is one of the island’s 10 charming villages. It too has much to offer, both in terms of its gentle atmosphere and its rich heritage. Its flower-filled alleyways and picturesque houses create a charming, authentic setting.

Rent a bike and ride from Place de la Noue to Place de l’Antioche to discover the treasures of Sainte-Marie: the fortified Church of the Ascension, with its 15th-century belfry and magnificent ex-voto, is a must-see in the village. Enjoy the panorama: a landscape between land and sea, where vineyards meet ancient fish locks.

The Sainte-Marie-de-Ré area is home to a rich natural heritage, which can be explored by following the extensive network of hiking trails and cycle paths. Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is also home to the famous Grenettes surf spot.

In terms of culture, don’t miss the musée de la pêche à pied et des écluses, as well as the cookie factory, which offers tours and tastings that are as exciting as they are delicious. Make the most of your stay to discover the Charente-Maritime department, with visits to La Flotte en Ré and the village center, Saint-Martin-en-Ré and the island of Oléron and Fort Boyard.

The history of Sainte Marie de Ré

The village of Sainte-Marie is one of the oldest on the island: along with Ars-en-Ré and Saint-Martin, it forms the trio of oldest parishes on the Rhé. Its fortified church bears witness to the existence of the parish of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré as early as the 12th century. Its creation and development benefited from the influence of the nearby Abbaye des Châteliers.

The land was then used to grow vines. Winegrowing remains the village’s main economic activity. The atmosphere of the village and its built heritage bear witness to this long-standing winegrowing vocation.

In the 21st century, the village became increasingly urbanized and its population grew, particularly in the hamlet of La Noue and in the town center. Today, it is the most densely populated commune on the island! Its attractiveness is due in no small part to its accessibility from the mainland and its proximity to La Rochelle.