The 10 must-sees of Ars-en-Ré, one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" in Charente-Maritime

Among the must-see villages on Île de Ré, the heart of the northern canton takes the top spot. Nestled between vineyards, marshes, and the ocean , Ars-en-Ré is a must-visit for its preserved heritage, its marina, and its unique Ré lifestyle. But this charming village is more than just a picture postcard: it's an authentic town surrounded by a haven of lush nature, offering a multitude of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Both seemingly frozen in time and brimming with life, Ars-en-Ré deserves a few days' stay. To better discover this charming, cinematic town, here's a selection of the 10 best visits and most memorable experiences to enjoy there. From well-known classics to hidden gems, Ars-en-Ré never ceases to amaze!

Ars-en-Ré in 10 strengths

Visit the Church of Saint-Etienne, an iconic monument of the Île de Ré

Rising to over 40 meters, its octagonal bell tower, topped with a black and white Gothic spire, stands out from afar. It rises like a beacon, guiding visitors towards the historic center of Ars-en-Ré. In the heart of the village, the Church of Saint-Etienne is a must-see landmark.

Listed as a historical monument, this religious building, along with the Abbaye des Châteliers in La Flotte, is one of the oldest on the island. Built on the foundations of an early 7^th century church, its square tower was erected in the 11^th century and its bell tower added in the 15^th. A fixed landmark on the coast, this bell tower is by day what the lighthouse is by night: it serves as a beacon for sailors navigating the straits. It guides ships towards the entrance of the Bay of Fier d'Ars and the channel leading to the port.

Strolling along the Port of Ars-en-Ré, between the sea and the ocean

With its quays lined with terraces and its 550 boat berths, the small marina of Ars-en-Ré has an irresistible charm. Nestled between the marshes and the heart of the village, it is nonetheless a lively place. On the quayside, the Café du Commerce has been an institution for over a century, a meeting place frequented by locals and visitors alike. Note the gallery of the painter Philippe Deschamps, housed in the former Ars train station, once dedicated to the transport of goods and passengers. A picturesque port that reflects the maritime atmosphere of Ars-en-Ré !

The salt workers' cooperative

This is a village that certainly doesn't lack… salt! Since the Middle Ages , sea salt production has been the main economic activity of Ars, nestled in the heart of the salt marshes. Shaped by human hands for centuries, the salt marshes are a kaleidoscope of colors by day and a mosaic of mirrors at sunset! Small white pyramids of salt line the meticulously maintained plots, tended by the salt workers who perpetuate an ancestral know-how. The Salt Workers' Cooperative, created in 1993, brings together 70 professionals who work the Ars salt marshes and promote the "white gold" of the Île de Ré.

Getting lost in the alleyways

A characteristic feature of Île de Ré, its flower-lined alleyways are an invitation to stroll. These narrow streets, mostly cobbled, are designed to provide shelter from the wind. They are often bordered by the famous hollyhocks, another emblem of the island. Take Rue du Havre, which leads to Place Carnot (the church square), then wander along the discreet alleyways, each more photogenic than the last. You will likely pass by the Hôtel Le Sénéchal, a magnificent 16^th- century building.

Explore the Fier d'Ars by bike and observe the birds!

A true haven of nature, surrounded by beautiful meadows, vast wild mudflats, and salt marshes, the Fier d'Ars is a vast playground for lovers of wide-open spaces and birdwatching! With 4,000 hectares of protected land, the Fier d'Ars is home to astonishing biodiversity, particularly migratory bird species. This vast natural area can be explored on foot or by bike, along kilometers of cycle paths. Allow a few hours for a loop to the Maison du Fier in Les Portes-en-Ré. Breathing in the fresh air, fully enjoying the serenity of the place, and respecting the birds are the key elements of this authentic adventure.

Relaxing on Grignon beach

Here's a beautiful, secluded, and intimate sandy beach perfect for a lovely stroll! Wander between the dunes, reach Pointe d'Ars, and enjoy the vast expanse of the beach stretching as far as the eye can see, all the way to the Phare des Baleines (Lighthouse of the Whales). A must-see spot at sunset!

Walking along the Boutillon Dike

After Storm Xynthia in 2010, the Boutillon seawall was completely rebuilt. It now stretches for 716 meters along the southern coast of Ars-en-Ré. Made of reinforced concrete and faced with beautiful stonework that lends it a certain charm, it offers a pleasant walk at any time of day, with a view of the ocean. At sunset, the terrace of the restaurant Les Frères de la Côte comes alive with regulars finishing work and meeting up for an aperitif! Conviviality and relaxation are on the agenda. Nearby, the Foirouse fish weir is revealed at low tide.

Watching a sunset in the salt marshes

Among the extraordinary landscapes offered by the Île de Ré, the salt marshes are undoubtedly among the most typical : vast expanses of salt water, symmetrical squares, and canals whose color gradients sometimes seem to border on the fantastical. Unsurprisingly, sunsets in the salt marshes are spectacular to behold. A constant delight!

Discover local cuisine at the Ars-en-Ré market

The people of Ré love their markets, and the one in Ars-en-Ré is undoubtedly one of the liveliest on the island. It's a golden opportunity to mingle with the locals and share a glimpse of their daily lives. The Ars market stretches out under and around the market hall on Quai de la Criée, every day from Easter until the end of September.

Nearly 200 passionate traders and small producers mingle in a friendly atmosphere, offering quality gourmet specialties (fruits, vegetables, fish, oysters and shellfish, meat, spices, wine, cheese) as well as a wide range of stalls selling textiles, decorations, jewelry, beach items… Open your senses wide, you won't be disappointed!

Enjoy a dozen oysters straight from the producer

Seafood lovers, you've come to the right place! Take advantage of your stay in Ars-en-Ré to indulge in the briny flavors of the sea. Enjoying oysters, fresh from the maturing ponds, in an oyster hut in the marshes or at a restaurant promises an exceptional culinary experience. Savor their briny flesh, accompanied by fresh bread, salted butter, and a glass of white wine… The essentials!

What a wonderful discovery Ars-en-Ré was!

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