A unique place to discover the island of Ré
TheÉcomusée du Marais Salant provides an insight into the importance of salt marshes, both environmentally and economically. The museum is located in the heart of a former working salt marsh, an ideal setting for learning all about salt harvesting techniques, which date back several centuries. The site highlights the role of salt in the history of the Ile de Ré, where salt production has long been a central activity for the island’s inhabitants. The salt marsh is a true natural ecosystem, where man works in harmony with nature. Visitors can discover the different stages of salt production, from the evaporation of seawater to the crystallization ponds and the harvesting of fleur de sel. Through guided tours and demonstrations, the eco-museum immerses visitors in the living history of salt production in the Rôtes d’Aosta region, an activity that has shaped the local landscape and culture.
A journey through the history of salt production
TheÉcomusée du Marais Salant offers an interactive tour of the history and traditional methods of salt production. The museum features a collection of antique objects used by the sauniers (salt harvesters): tools, clothing and period photographs that tell the story of salt farmers’ lives over the centuries. Enthusiastic guides explain ancestral salt harvesting techniques, while evoking the challenges faced by salt workers, such as the importance of weather and tide conditions for optimal harvesting. Live demonstrations show salt workers in action, harvesting marsh salt with traditional shovels and rakes. This experience offers a unique opportunity to understand the salt production process and discover the secrets behind the elaboration of Guérande salt or fleur de sel salt, prized by chefs and gourmets alike.
An unspoilt natural setting
TheÉcomusée du Marais Salant site is also a place of natural discovery. Salt marshes are ecological zones that are particularly rich in biodiversity. Local flora and fauna benefit from the unique conditions of this wetland, and visitors can observe a wide variety of migratory birds, such as flamingos, herons and avocets. The site also offers discovery trails through the marshes, where visitors can stroll while observing the local flora and fauna. The scenery offered by the salt marshes is spectacular, especially at dusk, when the light of sunset reflects off the saltwater ponds, creating a magical atmosphere. This immersive nature experience lets you reconnect with the environment while learning about sustainable, environmentally-friendly farming practices.
A fun, interactive experience
TheÉcomusée du Marais Salant offers fun and educational activities for children and families, including discovery games and hands-on workshops. Younger visitors can have fun while learning ancestral salt-harvesting techniques. Salt-making workshops are also organized so that everyone can take home a small quantity of their own harvested salt.
A store dedicated to Ile de Ré salt
At the end of the visit, theÉcomusée du Marais Salant has a store where visitors can buy salt from the Ile de Ré, as well as other local artisanal products, such as spices, essential oils, and salt-derived products like soaps and cosmetics. Fleur de sel de l’île de Ré salt is particularly sought-after for its quality and subtle taste, and makes an excellent souvenir or gift to take home.
