Salt production, a protected activity on Ile de Ré
The discovery of salt marshes dates from the 15th century. In the 19th century salt production on Ile de Ré reached its peak. Land used for salt production covered 18% of the island! And after a period of decline caused by a drying-out of the marshes, the activity lives on today through a cooperative of 40 salt merchants who continue the tradition.
An ancient profession which now contributes to Ile de Ré’s heritage and to local culture.
A walk through the salt marshes has plenty to offer for nature lovers. On foot or by bike, discover the flora and fauna, watch the salt merchants demonstrate their expertise, these experiences are unforgettable and timeless.
Beyond the economic aspect, the salt marshes are natural spaces that play a vital role for flora and fauna (in particular birds). And of course, the salt marshes provide wonderful photo opportunities of Ile de Ré's landscapes, particularly in the spring, when nature is abundant and varied, and colour is everywhere.
Since 24th November 2023, the name « l’île de Ré salt / Ile de Ré fleur de sel » is officially recognised as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), recognition for all of the salt merchants who perform their work with passion using ancient techniques.
Useful contacts
- Visit and discovery of the salt marshes
Ecomusée du Marais Salant, route RD 102, 17111 Loix
Tel. : + 33.(0)5.46.29.06.77 marais-salant.com
- Sale of fine grain salt, fleur de sel, large grain salt, flavoured salts
La Cabane des Sauniers opposite the salt merchants' cooperative, 7 route de la Prée, 17590 Ars-en-Ré
Tel: +33.(0)5.46.41.25.72 sauniers-iledere.com
- Independent salt merchant - Hervé Rocheteau - find out about his salt marsh and his products
Le Marais du Roc, route du Roc, 17880 Les-Portes-en-Ré
Tel: +33.(0)7.84.95.97.78 placedusel.com
- Independent salt merchant - Romain Pedurant - Nature & Progrès accredited - Organic agriculture
Pick Sel, picksel salt marsh or at La Couarde market, 17670 La Couarde-sur-Mer
Tel: +33.(0)6.76.79.20 pick-sel.com
If you'd like to stay in the heart of Ile de Ré's salt marshes, and to go and meet the salt merchants to find out about their work and the magnificent natural environment that surrounds them, we can offer holiday homes, villas with swimming pools, and apartments in Ars-en-Ré, La Couarde-sur-Mer and St-Clément-des-Baleines.
Holiday rent Ars-en-Ré Holiday rent La Couarde-sur-Mer
Holiday rent St-Clément-des-Baleines