Stone fortifications, traditional houses with green shutters, flower-filled alleyways, a bustling harbor swayed by the tides... Welcome to Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the summer getaway for over a million tourists on Île de Ré in Charente-Maritime. During your stay at Les Grenettes campsite on Île de Ré, take a trip to Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a charming village frozen in time.
The History of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is the economic capital of Île de Ré. Its strategic location near La Rochelle and its dynamic port once made the town a highly coveted target, starting with the siege by the Duke of Buckingham in 1627. Following this attack, Vauban, King Louis XIV’s architect, built crescent-shaped fortifications with a citadel in 1681 to protect the town. These ramparts allowed Saint-Martin to shelter all the inhabitants of Île de Ré during invasions near La Rochelle. Despite Vauban’s defensive walls, the Anglo-Dutch attack in 1696 caused significant damage, destroying many structures, including the church. By the 18th century, the town entered a more prosperous era, seeing the emergence of bourgeois homes, hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Must-See Attractions
A French town steeped in history, rich in heritage, and offering a unique atmosphere, visiting Saint-Martin-de-Ré is an adventure to a place where time seems to stand still.
The Port: The village’s hub of activity with terraces and boats
Life in Saint-Martin-de-Ré revolves around its port, which can accommodate 220 fishing or leisure boats and remains the largest port on Île de Ré. Relax at one of the waterfront restaurants, and watch the locals go about their day. The bustling bistros, ice cream parlors, shops, and boat traffic give the port a lively, perpetual energy.
The Ramparts: A testament to the island’s military history
Saint-Martin-de-Ré’s stone fortress features Vauban’s iconic star-shaped design, stretching 14 km with walls 9 meters high and 2 meters thick. In 2008, Vauban's work earned the town a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Begin your visit by walking along these historic walls and taking in the breathtaking views.
The Citadel: Once used as a prison
Vauban’s fortifications include a citadel on the northeastern part of the town. In the island’s warring past, this military structure housed around 2,000 soldiers. After the wars, Saint-Martin’s citadel became the gathering point for convicts bound for New Caledonia between 1874 and 1938. Today, it is France’s largest penitentiary.
Saint-Martin Church: Remarkable architecture and a panoramic view from the bell tower
The church is the tallest building in the village, bearing witness to countless wars and reconstructions. Today, it showcases a mix of architectural styles and is listed as a Historic Monument of France. Its wooden staircase of 117 steps leads to the bell tower, a real viewpoint offering stunning panoramas. Inside, the church’s rich heritage is also open to visitors.
Activities to Do
The historic city of Saint-Martin-de-Ré offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages.
Cycling Tours: The Best Bike Paths to Explore the Area
How about exploring Saint-Martin-de-Ré and its surroundings by bike? The cycling paths near the town will take you through the fortress interiors and the natural beauty outside the walls. Bike rides are an ideal family activity, as most routes are accessible to all skill levels.
Local Market: Discover Regional Products
The local market of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, located near the ramparts, gathers residents and local producers daily. Wandering through its small alleys, you'll find a variety of fresh products from the Charente region. You can also purchase small souvenir items. After visiting the market, stroll through the streets and alleys where hollyhocks bloom at the foot of each house in Saint-Martin.
Beaches: The Best for Swimming, Sunbathing, or Water Sports
The Cible Beach is the main beach of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. It is highly appreciated for its water quality. Swimmers and water sports enthusiasts will enjoy this 200-meter beach. Swimming is supervised in summer, and you can take lessons at the beach's sailing school.
Gastronomy
In Saint-Martin-de-Ré, seafood reigns supreme. Marennes-Oléron oysters, scallops, mussels... Restaurants offer a wide range of maritime specialties. Among the local dishes not to be missed during your visit, we recommend chaudrée (a seafood stew), farci poitevin (a vegetable and herb pâté), and sorrel soup. For a culinary experience, head to Saint Mart’, Avant-Port, Bistrot du Marin, or La Martinière.
Events and Festivals
Every year in September, the Île de Ré Community gathers at the Barbette Park in Saint-Martin for the traditional Associations Fair. The city center also hosts various open-air stages during the Musique en Ré event. For cultural discoveries, the Ernest Cognacq Museum regularly organizes exhibitions that pay tribute to the heritage of Saint-Martin and other towns on the island.