At a glance
Fish locks are a jewel in the coastal ecosystem. At low tide, discover how these historic structures facilitate fishing while offering a unique glimpse of coastal flora and fauna.
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Discover the coastal ecosystem
Fish locks, which first appeared on the Rétais coast in the late Middle Ages, represent an almost unique maritime heritage to be discovered. Fascinating horseshoe-shaped locks lining certain parts of the Retais coastline, they impress with their size, the largest of which is located at Pointe des Baleines, just behind the lighthouse.
The A.N.C.R.E Maritaise is a place where you can learn more about these treasures of Rétais ingenuity, and the Guérandais who created them. Located just a stone’s throw from Montamer beach in Sainte-Marie, this free interpretation center will reveal a wealth of fascinating information about the biodiversity and natural and built heritage of the Rétais coastline.
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Sightseeing tip
Start by admiring Sainte-Marie-de-Ré’s fish locks from the Montamer beach at low tide. Designed to catch fish more easily than at sea, they allowed the Rétais to tend their fields and vineyards while waiting for the ebbing tide to trap the scaly stragglers.
Then head off in the direction of A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise. (Arts Nature Culture Recherche Écluses) to learn more about this unique heritage and the flora and fauna of our coasts.
A not-to-be-missed family outing!
Did you know?
A common sight on the French coast in the Middle Ages, 140 locks were still in operation around the island in 1900. By 1982, there were just 13.
Prepare your visit
Activities on the locks
In partnership with the A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise, several service providers working to preserve the heritage of the Île de Ré and its natural spaces invite you to discover the heritage of the fish locks.
The Ligue de Protection des Oiseaux (LPO), Ré Nature Environnement and the Association de défense des écluses à poissons de l’île de Ré (Adépir) will be on hand from spring to autumn to introduce you to this unsuspected treasure of the island.
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