La Flotte, one of the “plus beaux villages de France” (most beautiful villages in France)
One of the oldest villages on the Ile de Ré, La Flotte was a fishing village at the start of its history. It is now an important attraction in your discovery of the ILe de Ré. It’s beauty is derived from its interesting architecture, the alleyways lined with flowers, the charming port and the market of medieval inspiration.
In the middle ages La Flotte lived off it’s vines wit the installation of Monks in the Abbey des Chateliers.
Le port
La Flotte, c’est une escale que les marins connaissent bien.
The port was constructed in 1765 by Gabriel Sénac de Meilhan in order to develop commercial possibilities. The port has been used for export salt and wine, afterwards used as a fishing port, it is now a pleasure port. Surrounded by numerous restaurants and bars, a famous icecream marlour and small bistrots, the port is now extended by a jetee dating from 1840 which takes the port out to the lighthouse.
The port is home to some old fishing boats « les vieux gréements », recalling the old fishing activity of the port.
Le Marché
The charm of the market is well known. Constructed in 1804 along ancient lines and inspired by medeival markets, the courtyard market has covered stalls and a paved court. Every morning in season the market is buzzing with local produce on offer.
