All of us have spent the last year and a half cooped up inside our homes in order to stay safe and healthy. Now, with things improving world-over and countries opening up for tourism, one can finally take that much-awaited holiday!
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a place to celebrate a postponed honeymoon, France is an apt choice. The city of love Paris is bound to be at the top of your list, but are you stuck wondering where else to travel in France once you are done seeing its magnificent capital? We suggest visiting France’s many secluded offshore havens. Island hopping and France is not something that most people associate together, but truthfully France is home to some of the most quaint and serene islands.
Île de Ré, commonly known as the island of Ré, is one such charming destination. Perfect for a relaxing escape, this island is one of France’s most popular holiday spots. Though the small island is just a 40-minute drive from one end to the other, there is much to see and do. It is bordered by pristine beaches, salt marshes, oyster beds, historic townships and sprawling vineyards.
The island is situated on the Atlantic ocean, roughly halfway between Nantes and Bordeaux and only has two entry and exit points. Île de Ré is only accessible via boat or through an old 3km bridge that was built in 1988. While taking a boat ride to the island is an amazing experience, the drive across the bridge that connects the island to the old centre of fishing and trade— La Rochelle is just as peaceful and eye-pleasing.
The main town or mini capital of Île de Ré is Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a UNESCO World Heritage site best known for its fortressed walls. During the late 17th century, Vauban— the Marshal of France and renowned French military engineer— designed the island’s defences with towering city walls that still stand strong to this day. Under the orders of King Louis XIV, the ramparts along with the citadel and the old Place d’Armes was added to bolster the fortifications. These architectural defences are something that many tourists come to ogle at.
Like most old European towns, Saint-Martin-de-Ré has maintained its historic architecture and charm. The narrow alleys partnered with terracotta-roofed stone-walled houses make this heritage site a visual delight. Walk down the winding lanes and explore the local shops and markets for a peek into life at Île de Ré. If you have some time on your hands and if you love a picturesque view, climb up to the town’s church bell tower and take in the panoramic view of the town.
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is teeming with restaurants and bars that offer tourists and locals the very best of French cuisine. Being an island, the staple ingredients consists of fresh seafood such as prawns and oysters and locally sourced produce to add body to the meals. From simple and homely restaurants to fine dining, you can have your pick. If you are confused by which of the many restaurants you should visit, ask the ever so friendly locals for a few offbeat suggestions.
The island has a few hotels that one can stay at while on vacation. The one that caught our attention is La Baronnie Hotel and Spa. Situated in the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Ré this luxury boutique hotel is an 18th-century stone mansion that has been restored and renovated to maintain the timeless architecture while embracing modern amenities.
La Baronnie was once a family residence and that familial style is still seen throughout the hotel. In fact, two of their suites are designed to be a perfect relaxation and recreational stay for families. With antique wooden furniture, pastel rooms and furbishing that pay homage to vintage French styles, their luxury rooms are an amalgamation of elegance and comfort.
The estate includes gorgeous manicured gardens, where you can go for a walk to take in the beautiful wisterias, roses and hydrangea bushes. One can also visit the Wellness Centre that is located deep into the garden. With large bay windows that let in natural light and offer you a look at the scenery outside, this is the best place to unwind and rejuvenate.
You can float around in their swimming pool, enjoy a soothing massage with their balneotherapy jet or relax in the jacuzzi. They also have a sauna and a range of body and facial treatments performed by their beautician. If you’re tired after a day of sightseeing be sure to visit the Spa for a massage tailor-made to suit your needs.
Île de Ré might not be as internationally famous as Cote d’Azur but it has an allure of its own, making the island a must-visit while in France!
Written by Mohit Gupta
Week 24 June, 2021
