- 24 km: Fouras - 1
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On the south coast of the Ile de Ré, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is revealed between land and ocean. Bordered by vineyards, this authentic village with its many faces offers its visitors a breath of fresh air in the heart of a small corner of paradise.
Sainte-Marie-de-Ré's origins go back a long way: it is one of the oldest towns on the island, since its construction dates back to medieval times. A green resort particularly popular with families and nature lovers, it seduces by its character and its environment. You can't help but fall in love with its small village, typical of the architecture of Rete, studded with beautiful white houses with shutters and balconies full of flowers. Strolling through its narrow streets is almost guaranteed to avoid the crowds. Less well known than its neighbours, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is nevertheless unique for its wonderful landscapes and its undeniable charm. If there is one point of view that will certainly offer you beautiful panoramas, it is certainly the church tower: from the top of its 47 metres, and after climbing its 91 narrow steps, you will be able to contemplate incomparable views of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, but also its vineyards, its fish locks, its fields, not forgetting the neighbouring islands of Aix, Fort Boyard and Oléron. Be careful with your ears if you are in the bell tower at the time of the Angelus at 7pm, you might hear the bells ringing really... very close! Once back down from the building, take the time to get lost in the alleys made of dry stones typical of the island, before discovering one of the greatest assets of Sainte-Marie: its rich wine heritage. No need to go far to find the vineyards, in a few strokes of the pedal you can reach the 650 hectares of vineyards of the island, which produce for the greatest pleasure of connoisseurs red, white, rosé and cognac wines. An almost ancestral art since the vines of the Ile-de-Ré are said to be more than 600 years old!
In addition to its viticultural qualities, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré has many skills linked to its location by the sea, including fishing. If there were still 140 fish locks a hundred years ago, today only 14 remain on the island, including 8 on Sainte-Marie. These "U" shaped fish locks were used to hold back fish and therefore, favoured fishing on foot. You will not be able to fish there because the site is protected, but it is nevertheless worth a look and you can discover it during guided tours.
Finally, get on your bike to stroll along the Sentier des 5 Paysages, and then reach the beaches, the main asset of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré: the Grenettes beach and the Montamer beach are certainly the most popular. If the first one is a well-known surfing spot, you can also do bodyboarding, sailing or even fishing at low tide. The second one will delight families: located near the Montamer park, it offers splendid views of the neighbouring Ile d'Oléron.
Plus d’infos sur la région :
Aline
15/08/2020
Visit the Whale Lighthouse. Very beautiful fine beach sand at Cap du Jong (commune Bois de Plage).
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