Best Markets
During the summer months, all of Ré’s major villages have daily markets. Two of the most charming to visit:
- La Flotte: Tucked beneath wooden arcades that date back to medieval times, it is a favorite place to purchase that picnic to take along on your bike tour (cheese, charcuterie, strawberries, figues, a small tarte and fresh bread). You can also pick up culinary gifts here: wildflower honey by L’Abeille Réthaise; chocolates by La Chocolatière (a bit outside of the market); and, of course, Rhétaise salt.
- Le Bois Plage: Set beside the town’s lovely church, this excellent market also has stands selling fashion, accessories and homewares that make great gifts to bring home. Favorite finds include market bags, espadrilles and cotton foutas in myriad colors that can double as picnic blankets or beach towels.