Fine sandy beaches as far as the eye can see, cycle paths galore, gastronomy featuring seafood and freshly caught fish, white houses with colorful shutters... Re island is a haven of peace where young and old can enjoy the joys of the ocean, after having cycled peacefully between picturesque villages and unspoiled landscapes. Follow the guide, find out how visit the Ile de Ré if you want to spend a few days away from the stress of everyday life!
Summary:
- Places to visit on the Ile de Ré
- The essential activities of the Ile de Ré
- Practical information for visiting the Ile de Ré
Places to visit on the Ile de Ré
rivedoux
First stopover after crossing the Pont de Ré, this village made up of flower-decked whitewashed houses has two imposing beaches, as well as an oyster port lined with multicolored fishing boats. From here, the panorama over the Pertuis Breton strait is admirable, especially at sunset.
Sainte-Marie-de-Ré
On the south coast of the island appears in the distance the Gothic bell tower of Sainte-Marie. This charming town has kept its rural identity and, despite tourism, oyster farming, fishing on foot and also viticulture are legion there. Recognized as a Station Verte Vacances since 2002, it is the ideal destination both festive and natural with its flea markets, its shops, its wild coast conducive to walks and swimming.
Bois-Plage-en-Re
This quaint seaside resort stretches along the coast, between golden sandy beaches and vast forests of maritime pines and cork oaks. A labyrinth of alleys, hemmed with old buildings embellished with gardens, invites the visitor to daydream. In summer, its halls house the largest market on the Île de Ré every morning, a patchwork of regional products.
Couarde
Located in the very center of the Île de Ré, this village seduces lovers of idleness attracted by its long fine sandy beach. Swimming, windsurfing, kitesurfing, stand up paddle, kayaking, walking along the channel and in the small port are all pleasures offered by La Couarde, hidden behind the dunes and the forest. Take the time to lose yourself in the maze of alleys to observe the fisherman's houses, before reaching the center of the town, typical and lively.
Ars-en-Ré
Located at the bottom of the Bay of Fier d'Ars, this small marina opens via a channel in the heart of the salt marshes. With its beach, its large dyke, its cobbled streets surrounded by stone houses decorated with hollyhocks and its bell tower serving as a landmark for sailors, Ars-en-Ré is the typical village of the region. Returning from the beach or from a bike ride, a stop on the church square is a must for a lunch break in the shade of the chestnut trees and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere that reigns there all year round.
Saint-Clement-des-Baleines
Located at the end of the island, this quiet town is home to the popular tourist site of the Baleines lighthouse built in 1849 by Colbert. From the top of the 257 steps, the 360° view of the ocean and the village is breathtaking. La Conche beach, a long curve of fine sand behind dunes and forests, is also very popular. The fish locks, which reveal at low tide what fishermen have shaped over the centuries, also make Saint-Clément famous.
The Portes-en-Ré
Once inhabited by salt workers, Les Portes is today a posh destination that inspires painters. We come here mainly for its large beach protected from the wind, its waves and for the purity of the wild spaces. The village has kept its authentic charm and to realize it, just stroll through the streets lined with hollyhocks running along the whitewashed facades, before reaching the central square with its cafes and the summer market.
Loix
Nestled in the heart of the salt marshes, Loix is the smallest port village in Ré. It is good to live there in all seasons and, as you cross the bike paths, you discover a natural space of great biological richness. Here, saunas and oyster farmers have been able to put their talents to work without bothering the 300 or so species of birds that thrive in a quiet, nesting environment.
Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Considered the capital of the island, Saint-Martin-de-Ré is certainly touristy but has lost none of its character. Protected by its ramparts fortified by Vauban, the village, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, conceals historical treasures, like the Citadel which saw many prisoners leave for prison. The old town, made up of houses steeped in history, is joyfully lively: terraces for chatting over a glass of Cognac, a port frequented by smiling fishermen and yachtsmen...
La-Flotte-en-Re
Classified among the most beautiful villages in France, La Flotte remains faithful to the image of the postcard of the Île de Ré. Its port, which faces the Vendée coast, has grown rich thanks to trade and fishing, as evidenced by the magnificent stone houses along the quays. A walk on the seafront offers the opportunity to admire the old rigs, before reaching the sandy beach and the Fort de la Prée. The winding, flowery alleys, as well as the square paved in the old style, finish setting the scene.
The essential activities of the Ile de Ré
Long bicycle rides, tasting oysters in oyster huts, hiking through vineyards and forests are all things to do on the Île de Ré.
Whether you are with family, friends or lovers, crossing this small piece of land of 85,32 km2 by taking the cycle paths will allow you to stop at your leisure in the villages to enjoy the omnipresent sweetness of life. Thus, the beaches await you at the four corners of the island for a refreshing bath or the practice of water sports, of which surfing is a real institution.
If you've always wanted to do your first dive, jump into the water to swim alongside sea bream, rays, conger eels and shipwrecks, in a world kept away from industrial fishing.
While strolling through the winding streets, you will undoubtedly discover regional markets with stalls filled with potatoes, Pineau and seafood. taste fish dishes with a local white wine.
It would then be a shame not to take a trip to the salt marshes to find out how salt is produced. For a total change of scenery, go through the Martray, the narrowest place on the island, or through the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve towards Les Portes.
A sea trip is an opportunity to contemplate the maritime landscapes such as the Banc du Bucheron, a strip of sand in the proud of Ars, and to approach Fort Boyard. What could be better than donkeys in panties to amaze children? Then go to the Parc de la Barbette, in Saint-Martin. Also, don't forget to collect crabs and shellfish, great catches are guaranteed. End your stay in style, by giving yourself a moment of relaxation in the thalassotherapy centers recognized for the quality of their treatments.
Practical information for visiting the Ile de Ré
How to reach the Ile de Ré?
Île de Ré, halfway between Nantes and Bordeaux, is easily accessible from La Rochelle train station or airport. All you have to do is rent a car or board a bus, the lines of which serve all the villages.
To do this, a bridge has linked the island to the mainland since its inauguration on May 19, 1988. Almost 3 km long and culminating at 42 meters above the Atlantic, it joins the tip of Sablanceaux in Rivedoux on the shore east, from the place called La Repentie to the north-west of La Rochelle, near the port of La Pallice. The crossing is subject to an eco-tax allocated to the management of natural areas. Consequently, every visitor contributes to the protection of the Île de Ré, 80% of whose territory is unconstructable.
Where to stay on the Ile de Ré?
Are you looking for a vacation rental on Ile De Ré? The villages of the Ile de Ré have changed little over the years, which is essentially the case of Sainte-Marie, Ars en Ré, Loix and Saint-Clément. If you come for the beach, choose Les Portes, La Couarde, Rivedoux, Bois-Plage, Saint-Clément. Swimming is pleasant both at low and high tide.
If you want to explore the island on foot or by bike, staying in La Couarde seems to be wise since the town has an ideal location. Those who like entertainment will opt for Rivedoux, La Flotte, Saint-Martin, Bois-Plage, Ars-en-Ré. Between the markets and the dynamic shops, you won't be bored! Also think of La Couarde, with its La Maline cultural center offering cinema, shows and exhibitions throughout the year. Finally, night owls will appreciate the festive atmosphere of La Flotte, Saint-Martin and La Couarde with their many restaurants, bars and nightclubs.
