Saint-Clément-des-Baleines

Built in the mid-nineteenth century, the Lighthouse Whale is almost sixty meters high. Located near the Vauban tower built in the late seventeenth century, it is the most visited place on the entire island of Ré. Classified as an historic monument, like the adjacent guards building, it was dubbed off by the Lighthouse des Baleineaux. The Vauban tower, former building of the school of lighthouse keepers, now hosts the Whale Museum. We discover the history of the town, as well as various collections around the lighthouse.

The church of St. Clement dates from the mid-nineteenth century and was built with the help of all the inhabitants of the town.

While walking in the town, do not miss to discover the fish lock, the old blockhouses of the Atlantic Wall, or the shed of the old lifeboat.

But it is the natural heritage of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines that attracts visitors. On the north coast, the town reveals beautiful beaches of fine sand. The Portes-en-Ré beach is particularly watched during the summer, and the one near the Whale Lighthouse is very popular for fishing on foot. The Wild Coast, which extends from Saint-Clément-des-Baleines to the lighthouse is not very suitable for swimming but offers several hiking trails to discover the local fauna and flora.

The market is held all year round on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Between July and August, the village offers a daily market. A night market is also offered in August.

On July 14, for the national holiday, the town offers a torchlight retreat, a ball or fireworks.

At the beginning of August, the town organizes a fireworks display on the foreshore.

On August 15th, place at Grande Bouvette with its donkey rides, its restoration and its various activities.

In August, the Jazz au Phare festival is held with concerts by artists from around the world.