If you’re planning a trip to the charming Île de Ré, nestled off the west coast of France, there’s one must-do that you simply cannot miss: indulging in the island’s famous ice cream at La Martinière. Known for its delicious and innovative flavors, this artisanal ice cream maker has become an institution on Île de Ré. Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or as a solo adventurer, stopping for a cone or cup of their delightful treats is the perfect way to elevate your island experience.
A Local Legend
La Martinière isn’t just any ice cream shop. It’s a legendary local establishment that has been churning out homemade ice cream for decades. With locations in both Saint-Martin-de-Ré and La Flotte, it’s easy to stumble upon their shops during your island explorations. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with people of all ages queuing up to enjoy their iconic creations.
One of the reasons La Martinière stands out is its use of local ingredients. The island’s natural produce, including sea salt, seasonal fruits, and honey, often makes an appearance in their ice cream, giving it an authentic Rétais flavor. But beyond the local influence, the creativity in their flavor offerings makes every visit an adventure.
Unique and Interesting Flavors
One of the best parts about visiting La Martinière is exploring the array of flavors available. Here are some highlights:
- Caramel Fleur de Sel: A tribute to Île de Ré’s famous sea salt, this flavor is a perfect blend of salty and sweet, with a rich caramel base and a subtle salty kick.
- Pineau des Charentes: For the adults, this ice cream is inspired by the regional fortified wine, Pineau des Charentes, offering a delightful balance of sweet and slightly boozy.
- Île de Ré Oysters: Yes, you read that correctly—an oyster-flavored ice cream! This one’s for the brave foodies. It’s a unique, savory option that showcases the coastal flavors of the island.
- Lavender & Honey: A more delicate option, this flavor captures the floral essence of the island’s lavender fields, balanced by the sweetness of local honey.
- Traditional Vanilla & Chocolate: Don’t worry, if you’re traveling with picky eaters (like my kids), La Martinière has plenty of classic flavors too. The vanilla is made with real vanilla pods, and the chocolate is rich and decadent—always crowd-pleasers!
With over 60 flavors in rotation, La Martinière has something for everyone—from the adventurous foodie to the lover of all things classic.
“You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy ice cream. And that’s pretty much the same thing.”
Locations: Where to Find La Mertinère
La Martinière has two primary locations on the island:
- Saint-Martin-de-Ré: Located in the heart of the island’s most popular town, this is the flagship store. You can grab your ice cream and take a stroll along the harbor or explore the charming streets lined with whitewashed houses. It’s often the busiest spot, but the wait is always worth it.
- La Flotte: The second shop is located in the beautiful village of La Flotte, one of the most picturesque areas on the island. This location tends to be slightly quieter than Saint-Martin-de-Ré, making it a great option if you’re looking for a more peaceful spot to enjoy your treat.
Both locations are conveniently situated near popular tourist areas, making it easy to pop in for a scoop or two while exploring the island.
Learn more in related article: Le Martray
Will that be two scoops... or three?
No shortage of flavors... or excited customers
Tips for Accessing la Martinère
Since Île de Ré is a popular summer destination, La Martinière can get quite busy during peak season. Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your visit:
- Go early or late: To avoid long lines, try visiting earlier in the day (before noon) or later in the evening (after 7 p.m.). This is especially helpful if you’re visiting with children, as the midday rush can sometimes be overwhelming.
- Try multiple flavors: With so many exciting flavors to choose from, it’s hard to stick to just one. If you’re indecisive like me, opt for a two- or three-flavor cup so you can sample a variety. Sharing is also a great option if you’re traveling with family or friends.
- Take a bike ride: One of the best ways to explore Île de Ré is by bike, and you’ll find that both La Martinière locations are easy to access by the island’s bike paths. Parking can be a challenge, especially in the busier towns like Saint-Martin-de-Ré, so biking is a convenient (and eco-friendly) way to get there.
- Bring cash: While La Martinière does accept cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially if you’re visiting the smaller location in La Flotte, where card readers may occasionally be down due to the island’s laid-back vibe.
- Plan for a sunset stroll: La Martinière’s Saint-Martin-de-Ré location is the perfect spot to grab a cone before taking a sunset walk along the harbor. The golden hour light combined with the sweet taste of ice cream makes for a truly magical experience.
