Remparts de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Explore Vauban's UNESCO-listed 17th-century ramparts, offering breathtaking views and a journey through military history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Remparts de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Vauban's UNESCO-listed 17th-century ramparts, offering breathtaking views and a journey through military history.
"The ramparts provide an absolutely amazing backdrop for sunset."
🚶♀️ Stroll the Ramparts
Walk the full length of the ramparts for incredible views and to appreciate the scale of Vauban's work. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Visiting at sunset is highly recommended for an unforgettable, magical experience. :sparkling_heart:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vauban's Fortifications
Explore the extensive 17th-century ramparts, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing masterful military architecture.
Port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Wander through the charming port, lined with pastel-colored houses and bustling with boats and cafes.
Sunset Over the Ramparts
Witness a breathtaking sunset from the ramparts, offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk the Historic Ramparts
Embrace the Sunset Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the Ramparts
Walk the full length of the ramparts for incredible views and to appreciate the scale of Vauban's work. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Visiting at sunset is highly recommended for an unforgettable, magical experience. :sparkling_heart:
🏛️ UNESCO Heritage
Learn about the historical significance of these fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage site. :classical_building:
🗺️ Explore the Town
Combine your rampart walk with exploring the charming streets, shops, and restaurants of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the Ramparts
Walk the full length of the ramparts for incredible views and to appreciate the scale of Vauban's work. :athletic_shoe:
🌅 Sunset Spectacle
Visiting at sunset is highly recommended for an unforgettable, magical experience. :sparkling_heart:
🏛️ UNESCO Heritage
Learn about the historical significance of these fortifications, a UNESCO World Heritage site. :classical_building:
🗺️ Explore the Town
Combine your rampart walk with exploring the charming streets, shops, and restaurants of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magnificent scale and excellent preservation of the Vauban ramparts, calling them a must-see for understanding military architecture. The sunset views are frequently highlighted as absolutely amazing. While the historical significance is universally praised, some may find the extensive walking required to fully appreciate the site.
"Vauban Ramparts
This is probably one of the most famous architect / engineer working for the King who build a lot of the most impressive landmarks in France who build these ramparts. The mark of Vauban in France is impressive.
Those remparts are actually quite iconic and representative of what Vauban used to do. Super nice stroll even a few century later."
Paul Vivas
"Top"
Philippe Chiliade
"The ramparts of Saint-Martin-de-Ré were erected by Vauban to replace the previous fortifications. Their scale and excellent state of preservation make them one of the best ways to understand the changes bastion architecture has made in the field of military architecture. Vauban did not invent these techniques, but rather perfected and theorized them, so many consider him the great master of bastions.
The site's World Heritage status is fully deserved."
Philippe B.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is accessible by car, bus, or ferry from La Rochelle. Once in the town, the ramparts are easily walkable. Parking can be challenging during peak season, so consider public transport or arriving early.
Yes, there are bus services connecting the main towns on the Ile de Ré, including Saint-Martin-de-Ré. This is a convenient way to explore the island and reach the ramparts without worrying about parking.
Cycling is a very popular way to explore the Ile de Ré. There are many cycle paths leading to Saint-Martin-de-Ré, and bike rentals are widely available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ramparts themselves are generally free to access and explore on foot. However, guided tours may have a fee.
The ramparts are open to the public at all times, as they are an outdoor historical site. However, access to specific fortifications or visitor centers might have set hours.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully understand the history and architecture. Some tours are even theatrical, bringing history to life. 
There is no entrance fee to enter the town of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. You can freely wander its streets and port.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way is to walk along them, taking in the views of the town, countryside, and sea. Wear comfortable shoes as it can be extensive.
Walking the entire length of the ramparts can take several hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop. You can choose to walk sections of it.
Some sections of the ramparts may be challenging due to uneven terrain and stairs. It's advisable to check specific accessibility information for certain areas.
Don't miss the Porte des Campani and the Bastion de la Mer for impressive views and historical context.
Crowds can vary, with evenings and weekends being busier. Visiting during weekdays or off-season can offer a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Saint-Martin-de-Ré has a vibrant port area with numerous restaurants and cafes offering local specialties and seafood.
While there aren't designated picnic areas directly on the ramparts, you can find scenic spots nearby or enjoy a picnic in the town's green spaces.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture panoramic views from the top, the intricate details of the fortifications, and the charming port below. Sunset offers particularly dramatic lighting.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, provides the best light for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a guided tour that might be more interactive or theatrical to keep younger minds captivated. The town's port area is also a hit with children, offering boat sightings and ice cream opportunities. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and sun protection, as you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
To save money on food, consider packing picnic lunches to enjoy with a view from the ramparts or in one of the town's green spaces. While dining at the port restaurants can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by venturing slightly off the main tourist paths. Utilizing public transport or cycling to reach the island and town also helps keep costs down compared to driving and parking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1For the best light, aim for the golden hours around sunrise or sunset. The warm glow enhances the textures of the stone and creates stunning silhouettes. The port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré also offers picturesque scenes with its colorful boats and charming buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of island life.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Genius of Vauban and the UNESCO Status
+1This historical significance is recognized globally, with the ramparts being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 as part of the 'Fortifications of Vauban' network. This designation highlights their outstanding universal value and the importance of their preservation. Exploring these ramparts offers a tangible connection to centuries of military history and architectural evolution.
+1Visitors can explore the ramparts freely, but for a deeper understanding, consider joining a guided tour. Some tours are even theatrical, with actors portraying historical figures like Vauban himself, bringing the past to life in an engaging way.
+1Experiencing the Ramparts: Beyond the Walls
Many visitors recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the ramparts to fully appreciate the scale and design of the fortifications. The pathways offer stunning panoramic views of the countryside, the sea, and the town below. It's an ideal activity for a relaxed afternoon, allowing you to soak in the history and the natural beauty of the island.
For an unforgettable visual spectacle, visiting at sunset is a must. The golden light illuminating the ancient stones and casting long shadows creates a magical ambiance. This is a prime spot for photography, capturing the beauty of the historical site against a vibrant sky.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit