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Ile de Re is a beautiful island just off the west coast of France near La Rochelle. It has many quaint villages, harbours busy with colourful fishing boats and
yachts, white fishermen's cottages with their traditional green shutter, alleyways strewn with hollyhocks and wild flowers, sandy beaches, pine forests and vineyards, salt pans and lighthouses, and
an unspoilt charm which attracts tourists in high summer. No wonder that it was one of
The island is linked to the mainland by a magnificent bridge yet it still manages to keep that "exclusive feel".
The capital of the island is Saint Martin de Re and is where we are based. The hotel is right on the quayside in an area with strict controls for vehicle access. It is therefore civilised and the
atmosphere from the hotel terrace is not spoilt by "city noises". Just near the hotel are streets lined with fashionable boutiques, cafes and many interesting shops. The covered market is just along the
quayside and is usually open in the mornings
An evening stroll on the old ramparts, built by Vaubon in the 17 Century, is a pleasure after dinner.
As Saint Martin is in the middle of the island, it is easy to get to the other interesting villages of, for example, La Flotte, like Angles sur l'Anglin, officially designated as "One of the Most Beautiful Villages of France", or Ars en Re, a favorite painting location with its interesting church, port and salt marshes. Windmills and vineyards are everywhere, as are both sandy and rocky beaches. The very high tides in September give some very interesting and unusual panoramas - challenging and frustrating for artists of all levels. |
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