Do you want to learn about the history and production process of salt, one of Île de Ré's most famous local products? Visit the salt marshes and the Cooperative of Salt Workers of Île de Ré in Ars-en-Ré.
What Are Salt Marshes?
Sometimes called "salterns," salt marshes are areas dedicated to harvesting salt on Île de Ré. This activity, known as saliculture, is carried out by salt workers called sauniers. In France, saliculture is widespread along the Atlantic coast, particularly in Charente-Maritime (Île de Ré, Oléron), Vendée (Noirmoutier, Breton Marsh, Olonne Marsh), and Brittany (Guérande, Gulf of Morbihan, Batz-sur-Mer).
History of Île de Ré’s Salt Marshes
Like oyster farming, saliculture on Île de Ré is an ancestral practice passed down from generation to generation. Salt producers on the island date back to the Middle Ages, and the industry saw significant growth in the 19th century, with over 1,000 sauniers on the island. Today, there are about 100. While salt production is no longer the economic lifeblood it once was, it remains an important, preserved, and emblematic activity of the Charentais archipelago.
The Culture of Salt Marshes
On Île de Ré, salt marshes consist of clay basins of varying sizes. This natural technique allows water to flow naturally from one basin to another, enabling sauniers to regulate water levels according to climatic conditions. Regardless of the method, salt production depends on the whims of the weather. Harvesting occurs mainly in summer, from June to September, when weather conditions are crucial.
Visiting Île de Ré’s Salt Marshes
There are several ways to explore the secrets of saliculture on Île de Ré. You can freely cycle along the bike paths that cross the salt marshes. Observe the small piles of salt, the "white gold" of the region. Stop when you see a saunier at work, and feel free to ask them questions. They are generally delighted to share their ancestral craft with curious visitors. For a more educational approach, head to the Salt Marsh Eco-Museum in Loix. During the tour, you will discover all the tools used in salt cultivation and harvesting. A guide will explain their functions and share the history and significance of saliculture on Ré la Blanche. You'll gain insight into harvesting techniques and encounter the star product of the salt marshes: fleur de sel. At the end of the 45-minute visit, you'll have the chance to buy products made with local salt.
Entrance Fees to the Ecomuseum
6 € / adult
5 € for children aged 12 to 18
3 € for children aged 8 to 11
Free for children under 8
Opening Hours
The Salt Marsh Ecomuseum is open from March to November:
- From 2:15 PM to 5:00 PM, March 14 to April 24 (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
- From 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM, April 25 to July 9 (closed on Mondays)
- From 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, July 10 to September 3 (open every day)
- From 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM, September 4 to October 3 (closed on Sundays and Mondays)
- From 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM, December 20 to December 30 (closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays)
Want to uncover all the secrets of salt farming and fleur de sel from Île de Ré? Visit the Salt Farmers' Cooperative in Ars-en-Ré.