La Flotte on Ile-de-Ré, France
A trip to La Flotte is not just a journey to a pretty French village. It is almost like a step back in time. Initially a tiny fishing outpost on the west coast of France, it has now become a hub for vacationers looking for a seaside holiday.
Located on the Ile de Ré, it has officially been designated one of the plus beaux village de France (most beautiful village), along with the nearby villages of Saint-Martin de Ré and Ars-en-Ré.
Whether strolling along the old port, exploring the vibrant market, or sitting by the beach, La Flotte today is an idyllic blend of history and charm, all the while providing facilities to tourists and locals alike.
Where to stay
- €€€ – Hôtel Restaurant Le Grand Large (Rivedoux-Plage)
- €€€€ – Atalante Relais Thalasso & Spa – Wellness Hôtel (in Saint-Marie-de-Ré)
- €€€€€ – HR Hôtel-Restaurant & Spa Marin (in La Flotte)
History
Ile de Ré dates back to the Roman era, when it was was an archipelago consisting of three small islands. As the islands gradually filled in to form one island, it became part of the trading route with the British Isles.
The island became English in 1154, when Eleanor of Aquitaine became Queen of England after marrying King Henry Plantagenet. The island reverted to France in 1243, when Henry III of England returned it to Louis IX through a treaty. In 1360, however, with the Treaty of Brétigny, Île de Ré briefly became English again, until the 1370s.
In 1988, the toll bridge Pont de Ré was build to connect the island to the mainland. With the bridge in place, La Flotte has transitioned from a working fishing port to a popular tourist destination with many people having holiday homes on the island.
Things to do
Harbor
The harbor of La Flotte is lined with traditional whitewashed houses with green shutters, that today hold many shops and offices.
The marina is hive of activity for local fishermen and visitors alike, with many locals having their pleasure boats docked nearby.
Around the village
While wandering around the village, you will notice plenty of charming small shops and restaurants.
La Flotte’s medieval-style market is one of the oldest on the island and offers local produce, fresh seafood, artisanal goods, and other treasures. The market is held daily during peak season in the center of town.
You can also visit the historic Abbaye des Châteliers, Cistercian monastery whose ruins are next to La Flotte. Visit the Fort La Prée, an old fort that remains a symbol of the fortification of the island during the many conflicts between England and France.
Local specialties
The area is famous for its seafood, with a deep tradition of fishing. Oysters, in particular, are a highlight. Try a platter of freshly shucked oysters served with lemon or a mignonette sauce for a quintessential experience.
Another favourite is moules frite, a dish of mussels cooked in a broth or cream sauce, and served with Frech fries.
Ile de Ré is also famous for its salt production, and its fleur de sel is a staple in French kitchens. Take home a bottle of fleur de sel as a souvenir.
The area is also is known for various digestifs such as Cognac and Armagnac which are types of brandies. In addition, try a Pineau des Charentes, a fortified wine made by blending grape juice with cognac and aged for years.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine is also home to the Bordeaux wine region, with plenty of locals wines available to indulge in.
How to get to La Flotte?
La Flotte on the Île de Ré is about 315 miles (505 km) from Paris. The fastest way to get there is by taking a train from Paris Montparnasse station to La Rochelle, with the journey taking around 2h30 on a high-speed TGV.
The nearest airport is on the mainland in La Rochelle, offering flights to major cities across Europe, making it easy to reach La Flotte from various destinations.
From La Rochelle, you will need a car to get to La Flotte, although there are buses and boats that head over to Ile de Ré as well. Once on Ile de Ré, it is relatively easy to bike all over the island, with plenty of bike rental shops around.
How many days should you spend?
You can probably visit the main sights of La Flotte during a day, with enough time left over for lunch and to head to a beach. But there is plenty to do in the area, so don’t hesitate to spend a few days on the island.
When is the best time to visit?
La Flotte hosts the Fête du Port in July to celebrate its harbor with live music, seafood feasts, and nautical activities. The Festival de la Mer, held in August, honors the village’s seafaring traditions with boat blessings, maritime parades, and local festivities.
There are also island-wide events, such as the Fête du Sel in September, honoring Île de Ré’s famous salt production.
Another wonderful period is in December when its Christmas Market in December transforming the harbor with festive lights, local crafts, and seasonal delicacies.
Where should you stay?
There are some great hotels around Ile-de-Ré including:
- €€€ – Hôtel Restaurant Le Grand Large (Rivedoux-Plage)
- €€€€ – Atalante Relais Thalasso & Spa – Wellness Hôtel (in Saint-Marie-de-Ré)
- €€€€€ – HR Hôtel-Restaurant & Spa Marin (in La Flotte)
If you prefer to stay on the mainland, here are some recommended hotels in La Rochelle:
- €€€ – Greet Hotel La Rochelle Centre
- €€€€ – Maisons du Monde Hôtel & Suites
- €€€€€ – Maison des Ambassadeurs