Our 4-star campground on Île de Ré offers mobile homes and cottages near Saint-Martin-en-Ré. It’s very easy to cover the three kilometers between the campground and the village by car or bike, thanks to the many bike paths on Île de Ré.
The true historical capital of the Île de Ré, Saint-Martin-de-Ré shines with its small maritime-style village, its fortified ramparts, its fishing port, and La Cible beach.
WHERE IS SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ?
HISTORICAL HERITAGE OF SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ
Located on the north coast of the Île de Ré, right across from the Pertuis Breton, Saint-Martin-de-Ré is famous for its fortifications and its remarkable period architecture.
It owes its charm to its historical heritage, the most significant on the island, as well as its exceptional natural heritage. The town of Saint-Martin has been voted among the most beautiful villages in France, thanks in part to the Saint-Martin town hall and its night market.
ACTIVITIES AND LEISURE IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ
Your holiday on the island will allow you to discover the best of this authentic village on the Atlantic coast. Saint-Martin offers all its visitors various activities and leisure options. Whether you come as a family, a couple, or a group, plenty of fun awaits you on-site.
While the village itself is a delightful place to visit with its Vauban ramparts, the beaches and coastal scenery also offer wonderful outdoor activities. If you love adventure, you can rent a bike and take the bike paths to Saint-Martin-de-Ré. You can also choose to relax on the fine sandy beaches of the Charente-Maritime department.
Quayside of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ: TYPICAL VILLAGE OF THE ILE DE RÉ
There is much to discover in the village of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. Considered the economic capital of the Île de Ré, it is especially appreciated for its rich heritage and lively atmosphere. Many visit ideas are available in the village. Whether through guided tours or exploring on your own, you’ll enjoy discovering this charming village.
The Vauban fortifications, for example, are a must-see. The almost intact walls have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2008. After admiring this architectural work, you can walk to the heart of the citadel.
Wandering through the old town with its narrow streets will be a real treat. Monuments to discover also include Saint-Martin Church, which is closely linked to the history of the village and the island itself.
Take advantage of your visit to climb up to the Clocher Observatoire terrace. The square tower and its bells never fail to surprise. Most importantly, you can admire the most beautiful panorama of the town and the sea. You can also admire the architectural styles of the Hôtel de Clerjotte and the Ernest-Cognacq Museum while discovering half-timbered houses dating back to the Middle Ages.
Your steps will undoubtedly lead you to the quays of Saint-Martin and its beaches. You can simply stroll along the beaches or enjoy the sun while admiring the ocean. La Cible beach is ideal for relaxing with the family. Barbette Park is the meeting place for children, with donkeys in breeches ready to take them for a ride.
In addition to the rides, various leisure facilities are set up for their enjoyment. The marked paths and viewpoints of Barbette Park will let you discover the uniqueness of this village.
Ernest Cognacq Museum
ACTIVITIES IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ ON THE ÎLE DE RÉ
Want to mix things up? Many activities suitable for all ages await you in Saint-Martin-de-Ré:
• Mini-golf : a must-do family activity with unusual obstacles to cross, like the ruins of the Châteliers Abbey or the Campani Gate. • Segway excursion : discover a silent, electric way to travel during a supervised ride. Segways are easy to handle and accessible to those over 16. • Stand-up paddleboarding : a 1.5 to 2-hour guided tour in the Lilleau des Niges reserve on calm waters. Tours are suitable for children and beginners. • Boat trip : step aboard an old mussel-farming boat, the Fantomas II, for a sea trip of about an hour off the coast of Saint-Martin. You’ll see the fortifications and the port from a new angle. • Ernest Cognacq Museum: a cultural space listed as a historical monument, housing beautiful collections of decorative art, furniture, and a room dedicated to Vauban’s architectural works.
RESTAURANTS IN SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ
Le Tout du Cru
With a fisherman’s hut decor and a very complete, well-chosen wine list, this establishment is a must-stop for tasting fish and seafood freshly caught off the coast of the island. Address: 9 Quai Job Foran Cour de l’ancien cinéma, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré Phone: 09 52 90 60 00 Price: between €25 and €50 Check the official website for the restaurant
Les Embruns
A traditional restaurant with a kitchen full of character, matching that of its owner. This is how the Michelin guide describes this establishment, won over by the gastronomic offerings of Les Embruns. Address: 6 Passage Chay Morin, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré Phone: 05 46 66 46 31 Price: between €30 and €76
Auberge Paysanne de la Mer
Savor your oysters or langoustines facing the sea and fill your lungs with sea air. Open your eyes: you are on the terrace of the Auberge Paysanne de la Mer. Address: Chemin de la Galère Le Vert Clos, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré Phone: 06 83 08 20 38 Price: between €14 and €30 Check the official website for the restaurant
Ben-Hur Char à Huîtres
Dishes served tapas-style on the shaded terrace give this establishment a charming, exotic feel. Special mentions for the octopus salad and the oysters. Address: Parc de la Barbette Av Victor Bouthilliers, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré Phone: 06 99 21 20 73 Price: between €12 and €26
L’Avant Port
Located opposite the port, next to the lighthouse and the Ernest Cognacq Museum, L’Avant Port stands out for its privileged location and tranquility. This bar-restaurant is set in a 17th-century house. Address: 8 quai Daniel Rivaille, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré Phone: 05 46 68 06 68 Price: between €18 and €35 Check the official website for the restaurant
VISIT SAINT-MARTIN-DE-RÉ BY BIKE
From L’Île Blanche campsite in La Flotte, you can reach the port and the Platin Museum to take the cycle path leading to Saint-Martin-de-Ré (4.6 km, 20 minutes). Before arriving at the town center of Saint-Martin, a small road on the right leads to La Cible beach. Upon your arrival in the capital of the Île de Ré, take the time to discover:
• The port • The citadel and Vauban fortifications • Saint-Martin Church • The Ernest Cognacq Museum • The Maison de La Vinatrie • Barbette Park
Good to know
Your host at Camping L’Île Blanche · La Flotte-en-Ré
“For a full day of cycle touring, you can do the La Flotte/Saint-Martin/Le Bois-Plage/Sainte-Marie loop (20 km).”
+335 46 09 52 43
