Saint Clément des Baleines

Saint Clément des Baleines must-sees

Discover the hidden treasures of Saint Clément des Baleines, a village rich in wonders. Three major attractions stand out: the majestic Baleines lighthouse, breathtaking endless beaches and nature reserves home to exceptional wildlife.

Don't wait any longer to explore them!

The Whale Lighthouse

Emblem of Saint Clément des Baleines, the lighthouse des Baleines takes its name from the numerous whales that once beached themselves on this part of the Ile de Ré. It follows on from the old lighthouse built by Vauban in 1682, now a historic monument offering spectacular panoramic views.

Inaugurated in 1854, the current lighthouse, one of the highest in France, stands 60 metres high and has 257 steps. Climbing up offers a breathtaking view of the Ile de Ré and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy a visit to the lighthouse museum, which traces the history of maritime lighthouses through a collection of historical objects.

Open all year round, the lighthouse offers a variety of activities and exhibitions.

Beaches as far as the eye can see

The beaches of Saint Clément des Baleines are among the most remarkable on the Ile de Ré.. The wide, fine-sand Conche des Baleines beach stretches as far as Les Portes en Ré, bordered by the Lizay forest, preserving its wild, natural character. It is supervised during the summer and renowned for the quality of its bathing water.

Beyond that, the wild coastline stretches all the way to the lighthouse, offering wonderful hiking trails to discover the local flora and fauna, although less suitable for swimming.

Nature reserves and local wildlife

The village of Saint Clément des Baleines is a sanctuary for nature and biodiversity, home to the Lilleau des Niges and Fier d'Ars nature reserves. The former, renowned for its migratory birdwatching, extends over 200 hectares and is home to over 300 species of birds.

As for the Fier d'Ars nature reserve, it protects a wide variety of natural environments, inhabited by diverse flora and fauna, and can be visited on foot, by bike or in a horse-drawn carriage.

Activities and leisure in Saint Clément des Baleines

The charming commune of Saint Clément des Baleines offers much more than just a place to relax and discover. Here, a multitude of activities and leisure pursuits on land and at sea await you. Find out how to enrich your experience in this picturesque village.

Bike rides on the cycle paths

The Ile de Ré is famous for its extensive network of cycle paths. In Saint Clément des Baleines, you'll find a variety of cycling routes to suit all levels and preferences. Rent a bike and set off to explore diverse landscapes such as vineyards, salt marshes, forests and beaches. Not-to-be-missed itineraries include the Route du sel, through salt marshes and typical villages, and the Chemin de la forêt leading to the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve.

Local markets and crafts

Fans of markets and crafts will be delighted in Saint Clément des Baleines. All year round, the church square hosts a market offering fresh, quality produce (fruit, vegetables, cheese, fish, oysters...) as well as decorative items, jewelry, clothing and souvenirs. In summer, don't miss the weekly night markets, offering local specialities such as galette charentaise and pineau, accompanied by concerts and other entertainment.

Water sports: from surfing to sailing

The beaches of Saint Clément des Baleines offer a full range of water sports activities to suit everyone. Whether you're looking for adrenalin or relaxation, there's plenty on offer: surfing, bodyboarding, kite-surfing, windsurfing, sailing, stand-up paddling and kayaking. Speed enthusiasts can rent a jet-ski to explore the coastline of the Ile de Ré, while fishing enthusiasts will have the opportunity to go fishing on foot or in the sea with a professional guide.

Where to stay and eat in Saint Clément des Baleines?

At Saint Clément des Baleines, on the Ile de Ré, you're invited to discover a multitude of accommodation and dining options to suit your every whim. From family campsites to charming hotels, gourmet cuisine, local produce, intimate cafés and relaxation areas, this authentic village has it all.

Here is a selection to help you make your choice.

Charming campsites and accommodation

Outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted with the 4-star Les Baleines campsite, located near the Baleines lighthouse and La Conche beach. Offering pitches for all types of camping and accommodation such as mobile homes, safari lodges and wooden cabins, this ecological site committed to sustainable development promises an unforgettable stay by the sea. Open all year round, it also offers a wide range of activities and entertainment.

For those seeking more comfort, local boutique hotels offer luxurious stays. Hôtel Les Vignes de la Chapelle, a 4-star establishment in the heart of the vineyards and a stone's throw from the sea, offers rooms and suites with private terraces, as well as a complete wellness area. Hôtel La Villa, recommended by the Guide du Routard and awarded the "Qualité tourisme" label, offers a 3-star experience in the village center, with elegant rooms, garden, terrace and bar.

Restaurants and tastings of local produce

The gastronomic scene in Saint Clément des Baleines is distinguished by its fresh, high-quality produce. Seafood, fish, oysters, cheeses and pineau are in the spotlight. The restaurant La Cabane, with its breathtaking ocean views, promises a culinary experience based on the treasures of the sea, in a warm atmosphere from May to September. The restaurant La Villa, meanwhile, invites you to enjoy bistronomic cuisine made from local ingredients, in an elegant setting open all year round.

La Ferme des Baleines specializes in aquaculture, where you can buy oysters, clams, shrimp, sea bream and samphire direct from the producer, showcasing environmentally-friendly craftsmanship.

Cafés and places to relax

Saint Clément des Baleines also has plenty of places to relax and have fun. Café du Phare, at the foot of the Baleines lighthouse, is perfect for enjoying French cuisine and a variety of drinks, with a year-round program of musical and cultural events. The Bar Lounge La Villa is the ideal place to enjoy house cocktails in a chic and relaxed after-dinner atmosphere. For a moment of calm and culture, the municipal library welcomes visitors with a wide selection of books, magazines and more, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Conclusion

Saint Clément des Baleines, a charming villaget, promises a seductive experience with its unspoilt natural environment. An invitation to savor the sea, the sun and unparalleled tranquility awaits you.

With a wide range of activities and leisure pursuits, whether by land or sea, this is a gateway to the discovery of local gastronomy, based on the excellence of fresh, authentic produce. Offering a unique and exotic stay, you'll find charming accommodation ranging from friendly campsites to boutique hotels.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Book your getaway to Saint Clément des Baleines now for a memorable adventure on the Ile de Ré!

FAQ

What activities are available in Saint Clément des Baleines?

In Saint Clément des Baleines, you can :

• Explore the Phare des Baleines, a historic monument with panoramic ocean views and a dedicated museum.
• Enjoy swimming or surfing at Plage de la Conche des Baleines, with its fine sand and turquoise water.

How do I get to Saint Clément des Baleines from the mainland?

From the mainland, reach the Ile de Ré via the bridge from La Rochelle. Follow the signs for the "Phare des Baleines", which will take you to the village of Saint Clément des Baleines, some 2 km before the lighthouse.

What are the places of interest to visit in Saint Clément des Baleines?

Saint Clément des Baleines must-sees include:

• Le Phare des Baleines, with its breathtaking view of the island and the Atlantic.
• La Conche des Baleines beach, a magnificent stretch of fine sand and turquoise water.
• La Ferme des Baleines, for an immersion in oyster farming.

When is the best time to visit Saint Clément des Baleines?

The ideal time to visit Saint Clément des Baleines is from July to August, with pleasant temperatures and low rainfall. It is less advisable to visit in November, a month marked by a less clement climate, characterized by low temperatures and more frequent rainfall.