Aerial view Abbaye Des Chateliers La Flotte Ile De Re Jules Serrurier

Les Châteliers abbey

The Abbey des Châteliers, a historic gem on the Ile de Ré, transports you back to the heart of the XIIIᵉ century. Discover this emblematic site, a testament to Cistercian architecture, nestled amid the island’s enchanting landscapes.

At a glance

Classified as a historic monument, the abbey was completed by Cistercian monks in 1156 and represents the starting point for the large-scale development of vineyards and salt marshes on the Ile de Ré.

The imposing remains of a fascinating history

All that remains of the abbey today are its majestic remains. The abbey church, its galleries, its cloister garden and its former refectory make this an exceptional site that will appeal to you in any season.

The site is freely accessible, but a guided tour with the Musée du Platin will help you unravel all its mysteries.

Impressive whatever the weather, these remains also offer the opportunity to take sublime photos and enjoy a fantastic view of the curvature of the island’s bridge.

Abbaye Des Chateliers Interieur La Flotte Ile De Re Mathieu Genon

Abbaye Des Chateliers Sunset La Flotte Ile De Re Laurence Furic

Ruins in an enchanting setting

As soon as you arrive at the site, whether from the coast or from the road, don’t miss the chance to pause and admire it from afar.

In spring, you’ll be enchanted by the sublime colors of the surrounding fields of flowers, giving the place a bucolic feel. Head for the abbey and start by reading the information panel before immersing yourself in the remains of this mysterious place.

Finally, take a look at the La Prée fort: stones from the abbey were used to build this bastion.

Did you know?

A proposal had been made to have the bridge finish at the foot of the abbey before the final decision was made to take it to Sablanceaux. It looks different after that, doesn’t it?

A place with character, whatever the weather

Visiting the abbey when the sky is not at its best adds another dimension.

A simple gray sky, on this site surrounded by greenery, accentuates its colors and reinforces its character. Don’t hesitate to visit at sunset. The reflections of twilight on the stone create a mixture of warmth and poetry.

Finally, why not try a nocturnal discovery? There’s no doubt that under the moon and stars, the magic works even more.