SAINT-CLÉMENT-DES-BALEINES, 19 KM FROM THE CAMPSITE
From the Île de Ré campground, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the village—voted one of the most beautiful villages in France—where you can enjoy the superb view from the top of the Baleines Lighthouse, relax on the long, sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast, or explore on foot or by bike through the dunes, the marshes, forests, and various waterfront areas of the Charente-Maritime department.
A stop in the village of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines is a must during your vacation on Île de Ré.
WHAT TO DO IN SAINT CLÉMENT DES BALEINES
The village of Saint Clément des Baleines is located at the northwestern tip of Île de Ré. It is best known for its famous lighthouse, the tallest on the island and among the most powerful in France. From the top of the Phare des Baleines, you can discover beautiful panoramas overlooking all of Charente Maritime, Île de Ré, and even Île d’Oléron.
Saint Clément des Baleines also stands out for the beauty of its beaches. Indeed, some of the most beautiful beaches on Île de Ré are hidden here. They are a paradise for all water sports. The wild coast and fine sandy beaches are bordered by green dunes and the Lizay forest nature reserve. In short, Saint Clément des Baleines offers an ideal natural setting for a relaxing or sporty break on Île de Ré.
This village is about twenty kilometers from the 4-star Île Blanche campsite. In less than thirty minutes, you can find yourself on the magnificent beaches of Saint Clément des Baleines. So, take advantage of your stay on Île de Ré to visit this charming Rhean village. Also, enjoy your stay to discover the charming marina and the many local products.
VISIT SAINT CLÉMENT DES BALEINES ON ÎLE DE RÉ
Saint Clément des Baleines offers beautiful walks and charming discoveries to all its visitors. Its most important monument is undoubtedly the Phare des Baleines. You have to climb 257 steps to reach the top of the lighthouse and then discover a spectacular view of Île de Ré, the bell tower of Ars en Ré, Conche des Baleines beach, and the landscapes of Île de Ré. The Vendée coast and the beaches of Charente Maritime can even be glimpsed in the distance.
The Tour des Baleines and the Phare des Baleineaux are also part of the built heritage of Saint Clément des Baleines. Monuments such as the Ecluse de la Moufette, the Pyramide, and the old lifeboat shelter also tell the story that shaped this charming village.
The bike paths wind through the most beautiful landscapes of the northern coast of Île de Ré. You can ride through the dunes to admire the hollyhocks and the Iraty Forest, or along the beaches to get a closer look—all by renting a bike. You’ll also discover the salt marshes and their migratory birds.
THE BEACHES IN SAINT-CLÉMENT-DES-BALEINES
Its superb beaches also attract countless visitors.
- La Conche des Baleines is certainly the most incredible with its immense sandy beaches and waves ideal for various water sports. This beach is also one of the village’s main attractions. For lounging, swimming, windsurfing, sailing, kitesurfing, and many other board sports, this beach is a must-visit.
- The beaches of Saint Clément des Baleines are also ideal for shore fishing for fish and lobsters. If you are passionate about this activity, your visit is the perfect time to indulge.
In short, Saint Clément des Baleines has all the assets to make you spend unforgettable days!
RESTAURANTS IN SAINT CLÉMENT DES BALEINES
Between a bike ride and your kitesurfing lessons, come tantalize your taste buds in one of the best restaurants in Saint-Clément-des-Baleines during your vacation at L’Île Blanche campsite on Île de Ré.
La Cabane
Less than a 5-minute walk from the Phare des Baleines, this friendly restaurant is a gastronomic window onto seafood from the Charente archipelago. Special mention for the mussels and fries, one of the specialties that delight visitors.
Address: 9 allée du Phare, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
Phone: 06 37 44 51 66
Price: between €10 and €25
Le Patio
Another establishment that highlights fish and seafood. Located at the foot of the lighthouse, Le Patio is an ideal place to eat and get some fresh air after a half-day of cycling on the safe cycle paths. The restaurant has an outdoor terrace and bicycle parking.
Address: 8 allée du Phare, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
Phone: 05 46 31 18 12
Price: between €12 and €29
À l’Ouest
Prawns, oysters, fresh or smoked fish: you are in the west of France and the northwest of Île de Ré. A compact menu, carefully chosen desserts, and tasty dishes characterize this restaurant.
Address: 6 Mail du Clocher Continuer rue de la Boulangerie, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
Phone: 05 46 29 96 03
Price: between €12 and €50
Les Huîtres de Saint Clément
Come and enjoy your dozen Île de Ré oysters in an old fisherman’s house with astonishing decor. Ask the waiter to recommend the white wine to accompany your dish. Bon appétit! Access for people with reduced mobility.
Address: 7 place de l’Église, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
Phone: 09 63 60 11 83
Website
Price: Between €13 and €33
Chez Marie
Another establishment with good value for money to eat mussels and fries by the sea after a hike or bike ride through the salt marshes.
Address: 25 Chemin du Pas du Nord, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
Phone: 05 46 29 21 83
Price: Price: between €11 and €28
VISIT SAINT CLÉMENT DES BALEINES BY BIKE
The Île de Ré is one of the favorite destinations for cyclists visiting Charente-Maritime. The reason: “Ré la Blanche” is crisscrossed by more than 100 km of bike paths that allow you to safely reach each of the 10 villages by bike. The gentle gradients and short distances make these rides accessible to all cyclists, including children and beginners.
From L’Île Blanche campsite in La Flotte, it will take you about 2 hours to reach Saint-Clément-des-Baleines by bike (28 km):
• La Flotte-Saint-Martin-de-Ré: 4.6 km / 20 minutes. Points of interest: Vauban fortifications and the port of Saint-Martin, Saint-Martin Church, the Ernest Cognacq Museum, and Barbette Park.
• Port of Saint-Martin-Loix: 10.3 km / 44 minutes. Points of interest: Marais Salant Ecomuseum, Sainte-Catherine Church, Martray Beach.
• Loix-Ars-en-Ré: 8.5 km / 36 minutes. Points of interest: Saint-Etienne Church with its striking bell tower, the salt workers’ cooperative, and the Seneschal’s House.
• Port d’Ars-en-Ré-Saint-Clément: 5 km / 20 minutes. Points of interest: Phare des Baleines, Conche des Baleines Beach, Saint-Clément Church, Pointe de Grignon, Côte Sauvage Beach, Petit Bec Beach.
