Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is the oldest and most authentic commune of Île de Ré, a charming island connected to the French Atlantic coast by a bridge. Located in the southern part of the island, the village is known for its white houses with green shutters, flowered alleys, and vineyards that reach the sea. Less fashionable than the nearby Saint-Martin or Ars-en-Ré, it offers an atmosphere of peace and rural tradition, perfect for those seeking discreet luxury and proximity to nature and its wild beaches.

What our local experts recommend to see: Sea, Tradition, and Salt Marshes

• The Beaches – The locality is known for its less crowded sandy beaches, ideal for long walks. We recommend visiting them early in the morning to admire the fishermen.
• La Thédoux and the Balcon sur Océan – Panoramic points that offer a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean and the coast.
• Historic Centre – Strolling through the alleys and admiring the typical houses of Ré, with their whitewashed walls and hollyhock rosettes.
• Vineyards and Farms – The entire area is dotted with small farms that produce the famous Ré wine and the island's potatoes.

Beaches and Maritime Activities

• Plage de Montamer – One of the most beautiful and wild beaches, popular for surfing and windsurfing.
• Bicycle Excursions – The island is a paradise for cyclists. Renting a bicycle and cycling along the cycle paths between vineyards and salt marshes is an unmissable experience.
• Sea Water Pools (Piscines de Acqua Marina) – The ancient natural pools created by the tides, often used for fishing for small fish or harvesting seaweed.

Gastronomy and Typical Products

• Île de Ré Oysters – Product of excellence, to be enjoyed very fresh in one of the numerous huts along the coast.
• Sea Salt and Fleur de Sel – Harvested in the island's salt marshes, the Fleur de Sel is a very fine salt and a luxury gastronomic souvenir.
• Île de Ré Potatoes (AOC) – Known for their slightly salty flavour, they are an unmissable accompaniment.
• Cognac and Pineau des Charentes – Although it is an island, the proximity to the Charente allows for the production of these renowned spirits.

Institutional Links

• Official Website of the Municipality of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré
• Official Website of the Île de Ré Tourist Office

Top 3 Recommended Luxury Accommodations by our travel designer

• Le Richelieu (La Flotte-en-Ré) – Luxurious 5-star hotel & spa, with ocean view and high cuisine. Ideal for a charming stay.
• Hôtel Atalante Relais Thalasso & Spa (Sainte-Marie-de-Ré) – High-level establishment that emphasizes wellness and thalassotherapy, with direct access to the sea.
• Hostellerie du Moulin des Dames (Loix) – Elegant and tranquil structure, immersed in the countryside, with a manor house atmosphere.

Top 3 Recommended Restaurants

• La Baleine Bleue (Saint-Martin-de-Ré) – Renowned for fish and seafood dishes, with a splendid view of the port.
• L'Océan (La Couarde-sur-Mer) – Refined and contemporary cuisine, often based on sea and island products.
• Le Bistrot du Bar à Quai (Sainte-Marie-de-Ré) – For an authentic experience, enjoying very fresh oysters and local terroir products.