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Nestled at the back of the Fier d’Ars, an 800-hectare bay that reveals itself at low tide, Ars-en-Ré is a chic village with preserved architecture, classified among “the most beautiful villages in France.” Its marina is the largest on Île de Ré after Saint-Martin. It features two tidal basins, regulated by a lock; the oldest is nestled in the heart of the village.
The Village around the Marina
Tourist activity mainly centers around the port and Saint-Etienne church. In the old port, from the cafe terraces, you can admire pleasure sailboats moored for a few nights and cruise boats offering sea excursions in the Bay of Ars. Embark aboard the Chinese junk with its flamboyant red sails for a mini-cruise in the Fier d’Ars!
Very close to the port, a market is held daily: stalls of local producers and craft stands mingle in the village square. Children (and parents) will be charmed by Donin’s carousel, a traditional carousel animated with songs by its colorful owner!
The Church Quarter
The paved alleys and narrow streets, adorned with hollyhocks, white houses, and green shutters, will lead you from the port to the church square. On foot or by bike, strolling through Ars-en-Ré’s historic center offers a timeless escape.
Saint-Étienne Church is the symbol of the commune of Ars-en-Ré. Its Gothic bell tower, built on a nave with a Romanesque portal, rises 40 meters high. It still serves as a landmark for boats, recognizable by its spire with a black tip highlighted by the sparkling white of the lower part. A museum space is set up in the belfry. You access the bell room via a staircase before reaching the balustrade, which offers a panoramic view of the salt marshes and the Whale Lighthouse.
Around Place Carnot, food shops, ready-to-wear boutiques, and art galleries invite you to window shop. At the corner of Rue des Tourelles, you can admire the Maison du Sénéchal, a magnificent Renaissance residence with a watchtower.
Sailing on the Fier d’Ars
Ars-en-Ré Bay offers a magnificent body of water at high tide, ideal for light sailing or small motorboats. The Ars-en-Ré nautical club, located 200 meters from the village center, offers the chance to discover sailing and the Fier d’Ars-en-Ré on a collective dinghy with a certified instructor. A one-and-a-half-hour outing for 3 to 5 people is an excellent way to learn the basics of sailing while enjoying a cruise in an exceptional environment.
Ars-en-Ré Beach
To reach Ars-en-Ré Beach, cycle through the village towards the west coast. It is a preserved, unsupervised natural area located near Pointe de Grignon. To swim at La Grange beach, you’ll need to check the tide times: at low tide, rocks prevent any swimming. However, it’s a great opportunity for shore fishing! Other beaches on Île de Ré are located nearby, such as La Conche beach in Saint-Clément-les-Baleines.
