Clocher Observatoire de Saint-Martin en Ré
Clocher Observatoire de Saint-Martin en Ré, Triangulation station at Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France
The observation bell tower rises above Saint-Martin-de-Ré, providing views of red-tiled roofs, fortifications, neighboring islands, and Fort Boyard in clear weather.
In 1696, an Anglo-Dutch fleet targeted the bell tower during an attack, as it stood as the only visible structure from the sea.
The bell tower contains three bells with their original ringing mechanism, marking time and important events for the local community since centuries.
The tower opens daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended summer hours until 11:00 PM, and requires climbing 117 steps to reach the top.
The structure serves as both a church bell tower and a geodetic survey point, featuring a protected 25-square-meter terrace at its summit.
Location: Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Address: 3 Pl. Eudes d'Aquitaine, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-18:00
Website: http://geodesie.ign.fr/fiches/index.php?module=e&action=fichepdf&source=carte&sit_no=1736901
GPS coordinates: 46.20318,-1.36818
Latest update: October 24, 2025 17:19
The Île de Ré reveals preserved sites beyond its main destinations. The salt marshes of Loix and the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve host more than 300 species of migratory birds, while the Baleines Lighthouse offers a view of the Atlantic Ocean. Beaches such as Trousse Chemise and Les Grenettes are characterized by their natural dunes and conditions suitable for water sports. The Fier d'Ars Port maintains its traditional fishing activity with boats and houses with green shutters. The Salt Eco-museum traces the history of salt harvesting and the work of salt workers in the marshes. The Baleines Farm combines agricultural production with shellfish farming near the coast. Villages like Loix offer traditional shops and exhibitions on local customs. These sites reflect the maritime heritage and traditions shaping the island's identity for generations.
Citadel of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
744 m
Abbaye Notre-Dame-de-Ré
5.6 km
Église Saint-Martin de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
13 m
Maison centrale de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
595 m
Ernest Cognacq Museum
337 m
Marché médiéval
3.6 km
Église Sainte-Catherine
3.5 km
City walls of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
75 m
Marché Ouvert de Bois Plage
2.7 km
Temple protestant de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
220 m
Maison de la Vinatrie
119 m
Hôtel des Cadets
111 m
Plage du Petit Sergent
3.7 km
Demeure
252 m
Pointe du Grouin
4.4 km
Hôpital Saint-Honoré de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
235 m
Plage de Gros Jonc
3.7 km
Plage des Gouillauds
4.6 km
Plage des Anneries
4.6 km
Fort de Grouin
4.5 km
Hôtel de Clerjotte
324 m
Musée du Platin
3.7 km
Temple de Église réformée de France
3.9 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-tous-les-Saints du Bois-Plage-en-Ré
2.6 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Annonciation de La Couarde-sur-Mer
4.4 km
Plage naturiste du Peu Bernard
4.2 km
Carrousel Park
5.1 km
Plage de la Chargé Neuve
2.7 kmReviews
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