The nearly completely preserved fortifications define Saint-Martin-De-Ré: since 2008, they have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the network of major Vauban sites. The rampart designed by Vauban is seven kilometres long, runs around the town and connects it to the citadel. The citadel and fortifications are protected in their entirety as French historic monuments. The fortress architecture is thus at the heart of a stay that can also be explored through museum collections and architectural history.
Fortifications and Vauban’s Legacy
The Poudrière Saint-Louis was built in 1685 according to Vauban’s plans. Designed as a strategic site in the event of a siege, the powder magazine could store up to 55 tonnes of powder. The Musée Ernest Cognacq displays plans of Vauban’s fortifications and a model of the fortress of Saint-Martin-De-Ré. These exhibits complement a visit to the structures outdoors with insights into their design and form.
The Musée Ernest Cognacq and the Island’s History
The Musée Ernest Cognacq is recognised as a Musée de France and presents permanent and temporary exhibitions on art and history. On a chronological tour, you will encounter archaeological, historical and ethnographic collections relating to the history of the Île de Ré. The collection themes also include navigation and fishing.
Another focus is the history of penal colonies. This includes Saint-Martin-De-Ré’s former role as a place where prisoners were held before being sentenced to penal colonies in French Guiana and New Caledonia. This historical context broadens the view beyond the fortifications to the island’s role in French history.
Architecture, Views and Routes
The Hôtel de Clerjotte on the Île de Ré is a rare Renaissance hôtel particulier, built by Louis Clergeat at the end of the 15th century. Its main building features Gothic elements, while the wings display classical details. The courtyard of the Hôtel de Clerjotte is freely accessible; admission to the museum is charged. Check access conditions before your visit.
The fortifications’ height and strength can also be seen in their precise measurements: at this point, the rampart is eleven metres high and two metres thick. The church’s viewing bell tower offers an exceptional view; visiting times may vary depending on conditions.
A guided walking tour passes through the fortifications and explains the defensive system developed by Vauban. Check before travelling whether the tour is available on your chosen date. Another perspective is offered by trips at sea of about an hour aboard the Fantomas II, departing from Saint-Martin-De-Ré. You can see the fortifications from the water; schedules and departures may vary. The walking tour focuses on the defensive system, while the boat trip offers a view of the fortifications from the water.
West of the fortifications, coastal paths run towards Loix, offering impressive views of neighbouring Vendée. Together with the walking tour, they provide different ways to discover the fortifications and their surroundings, without requiring you to follow the same route.
Market and Visit Planning
The covered Les Halles market is located by the harbour. From 1 April to 30 September, it is open daily from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm, offering fresh produce and local specialities. Individual vendors may vary seasonally. If you are planning a market visit, museum trip and excursions, take the respective opening hours and varying visiting conditions into account.
Discover more destinations: Léoville, Dirée, Thairé, Brie-sous-Mortagne, Aytré, Vérines, Saint-Crépin, Berneuil.
Return to the main travel overview: Charente-Maritime.
