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(still Ile de Ré): But I have to admit, that the island has a special beauty. The towns Ars en Ré, St. Martin and La Flotte are very scenic. Cruising through the saline on a bicycle is very nice with all the birds to watch and the almost Zen like geometry of the saline plants. They are still in a battered condition due to the flooding during that huge storm a few years ago, but still worth the visit. And if you leave the main roads you´ll find some tranquillity here.
Farmers markets are worth the visit too. Even though that the Salicorn here costs almost double, compared with the prices on the mainland, despite that it grows here in abundance. Also worth tasting is the Fleur de Sel. Add to these local specialities fresh vegetables, seafood, fruits, French sausages and you understand that the combination of colours and tastes are a feast for the senses. The icing on the cake are those ancient carousels, that you´ll find on almost every major market place.
The absence of waves on most parts of the island and the fine sands are perfect for smaller children. The saline ponds give an easy area for sailing courses, advanced learners can venture to the shallow waters between the island and the northern parts of the mainland. Good for families, but – as I mentioned at the beginning – not too good for ambitioned surfers and windsurfers.
Culture Nation: I mentioned the castles before. Add to this the uncountable historic towns, the excellent cuisine, red wine, croissants & baguettes, music, art and it gets clear, that France has a very high cultural level. But how can this nation be so ignorant to the risks of nuclear energy? How can a evolved nation be so barbaric to cluster reprocessing and power plants into one of the most beautiful regions of the country (see La Hague, but also the Loire valley)?
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