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Over the years, the Heritage Days have become a major cultural highlight on the Île de Ré. They offer a better understanding of the island’s identity, shaped by the ocean, salt marshes, agriculture, fortifications and island life.
From Saint-Martin-de-Ré to Ars-en-Ré, from Sainte-Marie-de-Ré to La Flotte, each village highlights a facet of its history through activities designed for families, curious visitors and heritage enthusiasts.
During this weekend, many historic monuments and heritage sites open their doors:
These visits are often free or offered at a reduced rate, and sometimes enhanced with guided commentary or playful formats suitable for children.
The Heritage Days also provide an opportunity to step inside places usually closed to the public: character houses, inner courtyards, workshops, storage areas or technical spaces. It is a wonderful chance to rediscover villages, their narrow streets, churches, harbours and landscapes, often accompanied by local stories and testimonies.
Abbaye Des Chateliers Aerien Jules Serrurier
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Poisson lock Sainte Marie Mathieu Genon
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Educational workshops, storytelling tours, treasure hunts and sensory trails… the Heritage Days on the Île de Ré regularly offer formats designed for children and multi-generational families, sharing local history in a fun and engaging way.
Talks, meetings with historians, craftsmen or local residents, and guided walks or bike tours allow visitors to explore themes such as Ré island architecture, maritime history, traditional trades, salt marshes and island traditions.
The detailed programme for the 2026 Heritage Days on the Île de Ré will be announced at a later date. Dates, locations, opening times and access conditions will be specified closer to the event.
In the meantime, this page helps you plan your visit and look forward to a cultural weekend full of discoveries.
The Heritage Days take place every year in mid-September, usually over a weekend (Saturday and Sunday).
Most visits offered during the Heritage Days are free or available at a reduced rate, depending on the site.
Yes, many activities are designed for families and children, with fun, educational and accessible formats.
Some visits or activities may require advance booking, particularly for groups or limited-capacity venues.
Most of the Île de Ré’s villages take part, including Saint-Martin-de-Ré, Ars-en-Ré, La Flotte, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré and Loix.
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