Formerly a fishing village, La Flotte is today an essential step of your discovery of the Île de Ré, classified "Most Beautiful Villages of France" for its heritage and its remarkable architecture, its narrow alleys and flowers, its market of inspiration medieval and the charm of its port.
In the Middle Ages, La Flotte saw the culture of the vineyard with the installation of the monks of the abbey of Châteliers. La Flotte is a historic village that invites its visitors to stroll along the harbor or under the plane trees of the Cours Félix Faure under the gaze of the old mansions of the eighteenth century.
The port of La Flotte today hosts many boats and sailboats stopover on the island of Ré. Bordered by numerous restaurants, bustling terraces, ice cream parlors or small bistros, the harbor stretches along a characteristic 1840 jetty: a 200m roundabout to the foot of the 9m high green lighthouse that protects the harbor. entrance to the harbor and guide the sailors.
The port is also classified "Blue Flag", an eco-label guaranteeing a sustainable approach and a quality environment.
The port of La Flotte welcomes old boats or "old rigs", reminiscent of the activity of fishing yachts of yesteryear, 5 of which are classified as Historical Monuments.
The market: Its unique charm will make you succumb. Built in 1804 and inspired by medieval architecture, this picturesque market recalls the halls of yesteryear. Magnificent paved courtyard lined with stalls covered with wooden shed, a well was once in its center. Today, local producers and traders are busy every morning from 9am to 1pm to offer visitors a selection of local products, fruits and vegetables, meat and fish.
To discover, the lighthouse of the Whales.
Do you like walking? The Ile de Ré is for you, with its many hiking trails. The marked trails in the forests north and south of the island, and by the sea, offer walks for all levels. What to stroll, even walk the island a good step. In the key, big bowl of air assured!
The sea is an ideal playground for children and adults, thanks to water activities adapted to all levels and the desires of sensations: multiple water sports (catamaran, dinghy, paddle, canoe, surf, jetski, wakeboard, kitesurf...), trips to discover the nearby islands (Oléron, Aix), fishing trips or the possibility of renting your own boat.
A diversity of beautiful landscapes of wild moors, salt marshes, small woods, beaches and charming small villages. 30 km long, without relief - the highest point being 19 m - and with over 110 km of bike paths, the island is a paradise for bicycles. Even the least sporty can discover the island of Ré by bike!
The Ile de Ré has a rich soil: salt, oysters, chocolate, biscuits, cheese, potatoes, wine and spirits, saffron, caramel... and quality craftsmanship: book binding and restoration, soap making, furniture creation and repair, painting, sculpture...
Many artisans open their doors for a visit or an internship to discover and learn the secrets of making your favorite products. They found there, and this is the case in all the villages of the island, a place where their creativity expresses itself freely. Is it the particular light that inspires them? Do not hesitate to meet them in their galleries and their workshops, and go to discover their exhibitions. They like to tell and share their passion.
View of the sky The island of Ré is magic, a tour in ULM and the color palette of the marshes is yours.
On land, for once forget the bike, take an unusual ride in Tuk-Tuk, or move on Segway. Unless you use the electric bus, a good way to preserve the environment.
Internships are organized all year long and during holidays for adults and children. Many activities are also offered by the associations retaises, particularly active. Discover all the riches of the island of Ré through the many activities and leisure offered for your holidays and holidays.