Abstract: A method for the synthesis of cyclic acetals comprises reacting at least one carbonyl-function compound selected from aldehydes, ketones, and/or linear acetals, on a polyol in a concentrated aqueous solution exceeding 20 wt % in a reactor containing an acidic catalyst. The carbonyl-function compound is selected so that the cyclic acetal obtained has a water solubility lower than 20000 mg/kg. During the catalytic reaction for the cyclic acetal synthesis, at least one portion of the organic phase containing the cyclic acetal is separated. The acidic catalysis is either homogeneous when using a water-soluble strong acid, or heterogeneous when using a solid acid such as a resin, a zeolite, or any appropriately acidified solid. The extractive reaction method can be used for obtaining high conversions and selectivity.