At a glance
The fortifications of Saint-Martin-de-Ré are unique in their size: 14 km of ramparts on a semi-circle with a radius of 1.5 km. They have been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Impressive buildings
Completed under the reign of Louis XIV by the engineer Vauban, the fortifications provided shelter for the island’s entire population in the event of an enemy landing.
Their walls are also impressive for their massive appearance, which would make you feel tiny in the face of this feat of engineering. Part of the network of major Vauban sites, they can be visited all year round, either on your own or by taking part in one of the tourist office’s guided tours to discover this style of defensive architecture.
If you’re a fan of Vauban’s work, this is a must-see!
Port Vue Aerienne Fortification Saint Martin Ile De Re Jules SerrurierPort Vue Aerienne Fortification Saint Martin Ile De Re Jules Serrurier|
Aerial view Fortification Saint Martin Ile De Re Jules SerrurierAerial view Fortification Saint Martin Ile De Re Jules Serrurier|
To discover them
Departing from Plage de la Cible, head for the village of Saint-Martin along the coast for a walk steeped in history.
Along the way, you’ll pass the citadel and its richly decorated entrance.
Once a penal colony, it is still a major penitentiary today. Continue along its ancient port before arriving at the foot of the Barbette park.
Climb up to its heights to admire the view of the Vendée in the distance, before heading for the port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a must-see that blends in perfectly with the fortifications.
Did you know?
As mentioned above, the citadel is still an active prison. So you can’t visit it, just observe it from the outside.
Sign up for fascinating guided tours
The complex military terms and particular contexts surrounding the history of fortifications don’t make it easy to learn about Vauban and fortifications.
That’s why we invite you to take part in a comprehensive tour with passionate guides. The tour will take you from the defenders’ to the attackers’ camp, with explanations of the military jargon of the time. Visits are sometimes enhanced by role-playing scenarios, giving you a sense of being plunged into the past. It’s a thrilling way to discover the history of the island and Saint-Martin-de-Ré in a different way.
Prepare your visit
Guided tour in season:
Price :
8€/adult and 3.5€/child (5 to 12 years)
A walking tour is available, following the directions on the back of the village map available at the reception desk.
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