At a glance
Fish locks are a historic part of Île de Ré’s coastal ecosystem. At low tide, discover how these horseshoe-shaped, low-walled structures make it possible to catch fish, and gain a unique glimpse into the island’s coastal flora and fauna.
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Discover the coastal ecosystem
Fish locks first appeared on Île de Ré’s coast in the late Middle Ages, representing an almost unique maritime heritage. The horseshoe-shaped fish locks line certain sections of Île de Ré’s coastline, and impress with their size. The largest fish lock is located at Pointe des Baleines, just behind the Phare des Baleines lighthouse.
L’A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise, in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, is an ideal place to learn more about these ingenious treasures on Île de Ré. Located next to Plage de Montamer, the visitor centre is free to visit, and reveals a wealth of fascinating information about the biodiversity, nature and heritage on Île de Ré’s coastline.
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A sightseeing tip
Start by observing the fish locks at low tide from Plage de Montamer in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré. Designed to use the action of the tides to catch fish more easily than at sea, fish locks allowed Île de Ré inhabitants to tend to their fields and vineyards while waiting for the ebbing tide to trap the fish.
Next, go to L’A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise visitor centre to learn more about this unique heritage and the flora and fauna on Île de Ré’s coastline.
An enriching experience for the whole family!
Did you know?
A common sight on the French coast in the Middle Ages, 140 fish locks were still being used around the island in 1900. By 1982, only 13 fish locks remained.
Prepare your visit
Fish lock activities
In partnership with L’A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise, several associations working to preserve the heritage of Île de Ré and its natural areas invite you to discover the island’s fish locks.
The League for the Protection of Birds (LPO), Ré Nature Environnement and ADEPIR, the association for the protection of fish locks on Île de Ré, organise activities from April to October to introduce you to this surprising island treasure.
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