For a taste of the real France, head to Ile de Re on the Atlantic Coast. Known as the French version of The Hamptons, this small island has a carefree vibe.
That’s partly due to the popularity of cycling here, as well as the unspoiled sandy beaches and beautiful villages. Here’s our guide to the best things to do on Île de Ré, whether you’re visiting for the first time or making a return visit.
Ile de Ré Things to Do
Only 19 miles long, this Atlantic island nevertheless packs a lot in. From historic military fortifications to picturesque harbours, pine forests and fun seafood shacks, there’s much to enjoy.
It can get busy on the Ile de Re during the Summer months, when Parisians flock to their second homes. In high season, you’ll need to book accommodation and the best restaurants well in advance.
1. Abbaye des Chateliers
This former Cistercian abbey can be found on Route La Prée outside La Flotte. The oldest building on the Ile de Re, the abbey dates from the 12th century.
The Cistercian monks developed the wine and salt trade on Ile de Re. You can see the remains of their refectory and cloister garden and the site is free to enter.
2. Ars-en-Ré
This picturesque place, together with La Flotte was voted one of the prettiest villages in France, or “plus beau village de France”. Wander around the streets of Ars-en-Re and admire the charming houses with their painted shutters.
There are 16 authorized paint colors for doors and window frames on the Ile de Re: 8 blue and 8 green. Thanks to this, the houses on the island look remarkably harmonious.
Check out the unusual two-tone church spire. It was painted that way to ensure that sailors could see it from afar, whatever the weather.
3. Ile de Ré Beaches
You could easily spend all your time on Ile de Re just going from beach to beach. For example, Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré has 6 km of Pavillon Bleu approved beaches. Here are a few of the most popular beaches on the Ile de Re:
- Plage de la Conche des Baleines – a wide beach located at Rue de Grignon in Ars-en-Ré.
- Plage de Gros Jonc – popular with surfers and holidaymakers for its soft sand.
- Plage de Trousse Chemise – close to Les-Portes-en-Ré, this wild beach is popular with kitesurfers.
- Plage du Petit Sergent – a clean and quiet pebble beach near Le Bois Plage, with several walks nearby.
Plage de la Cible – close to Saint-Martin-de-Ré, this beach has cabins that you can rent.
4. Ile de Ré Bridge
This metal suspension bridge, known in French as Pont de l’île de Ré, was completed in 1988. Visitors to the island either pass over it by car or close to it by boat.
The toll varies depending on whether it is off season or high season and whether you are a visitor or a second home owner. It is free for permanent residents of the island.
Spanning 3 kilometers, the bridge is open 24/7. If you have time, stop at the base of the bridge at Rivedoux-Plage for a closer look and a great photo opp.
5. Ile de Ré Cycling
The island has over 68 miles of cycling paths. Most of these bike paths are completely off road. A few Ile de Re cycle paths are shared usage with other road vehicles.
As the island is fairly flat, most holidaymakers choose to get around by bike rather than by car. This is definitely the best way to see the Ile de Re. Electric bikes are very popular and available from all the bike hire shops.
We rented our bikes from Youtoo, at 7-9 avenue Bouthillier close to Saint Martin de Re port. They give a 10% discount to guests of Hotel La Baronnie when you present a printed voucher. All their bikes are black with distinctive white spots.
As well as regular pushbikes, they have electric bicycles, beach cruisers, tandems and even monocyles for hire. The bikes come with locks and you can also rent baskets and kid’s trailers. It’s not obligatory to wear helmets when cycling on the Ile de Re, but you can also rent these if you like.
6. La Flotte Market
Located in the centre of the village, La Flotte’s artisanal market takes place every day, all year round from 7.30 am to 1 pm. This medieval style market takes place in a picturesque cobblestoned square with wooden market stalls.
There are lots of great organic food producers, including chocolate fondant which has been awarded the best in France. This is certainly not the cheapest place to shop but it’s definitely one of the most attractive.
Another interesting thing to do in La Flotte is to visit the Fort de la Prée. Built in 1625, this is the oldest military fort on the Ile de Re.
It was designed in a star shape by engineers Le Camus and d’Argencourt, on the orders of the island’s governor, Toiras. The fort is open for visits from April to September and also on All Saint’s Day.
7. Marais Salants
The Ile de Re is also well known for its salt production. This began in the Middle Ages and carried on until the end of the 19th century.
In recent years, salt farming has enjoyed a resurgence, and there are around 30 salt producers on the Ile de Re. The salt flats are divided into several pools.
Sea salt crystallizes here between June and September. The salt is collected by the sauniers or salt farmers with the help of a wooden rake.
You can buy many different types of salt directly from the cooperatives. Rock salt and fleur de sel are two of the best. There are also quite a few unmanned stalls selling salt in the midst of the marshes, with honesty boxes where you can leave your payment.
The Ecomuseum Marais Salant in Loix is worth a visit to understand more about the salt production. Open from mid February until mid November, it features an exhibition and shop. Visitors are taken on a guided tour of the salt pans to find out more about the salt and also the birdlife.
Address: route de la passe, RD102, 17111 Loix, France
8. Oyster Farms
The Ile de Re is famous for its oysters which are farmed mainly in the north the island. Most of the oyster producers have a seafood shack next to their oyster beds that’s open to the public.
You can try the famous oysters as well as cuttlefish, clams and mussels. Wash them down with local white wine produced on Ile de Re.
There’s even an out of hours oyster vending machine at L’Huitrière de Ré near Ars-en-Ré. This might sound scary given that oysters must be eaten fresh. However the oysters are sold closed and replaced every morning.
Some of the best Ile de Ré oyster shacks include:
- Cabanajam – on Chemin du Chaffaud, known for its mussels, oysters and prawns as well as its sea views.
- L’Auberge Paysanne de la Mer – take Chemin de la Galère just outside Saint-Martin-de-Ré and enjoy the coastal setting.
- La Cabane de l’Huître du Saunier – in the midst of the salt marshes at Marais de Bergapson, near La Couarde-sur-Mer.
- Ré Ostréa – on the coastal path at Chemin de la Galère, this popular oyster shack has colorful parasols and great views of the Atlantic Sea.
9. Phare des Baleines
Located in the North West tip of the Ile de Re, the Phare des Baleines Lighthouse and Museum is well worth a visit. This local landmark was built in 1854 to replace the Old Tower, designed by Vauban in 1682.
The Phare des Baleines or Whale Lighthouse, stands 57 meters high. Climb up the 257 steps for a panoramic view of the Old Tower and the Atlantic Coast.
If you have time, admire the stacked stones on Conche des Baleines beach. Visitors to the site have gently balanced the pebbles on top of each other.
Back at the Phare des Baleines there’s a small museum on the history of the lighthouse and a gift shop. A few minutes walk away towards the car park there are several more shops and cafes.
Juste is one of the best known restaurants and has a pleasant terrace at the front.
Address: 155 Allée du Phare, 17590 Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, France
10. Saint-Martin-de-Ré
This picturesque fishing port is the main town. It’s also one of the largest villages on the Ile de Re. The nightlife here is the busiest on the island.
Church Bell Tower
Located on Place Eudes d’Aquitaine, Eglise Saint Martin is a 14th century Catholic church. Climb the 117 steps to the tower for panoramic views of the village, Vauban Fort and the Atlantic Ocean.
Address: Place Eudes d’Aquitaine, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France
Ernest Cognacq Museum
Recently renovated, this regional museum is located in a beautiful building named Hotel de Clerjotte. Dating from 1480, it was the home of Louis Clergeat who was head of taxes for Charles de France.
Address: 13 Avenue Victor Bouthillier, 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré, France
Fortifications of Vauban
Close to the harbour, Vauban Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site commissioned by military engineer Vauban. Built from 1681 to 1691, the fort has a unique star shape when seen from above.
There are guided tours each Tuesday at 10.30 am from June to September, or you can walk around the exterior fortifications yourself. Two monumental gates guard the entrances to the fort. Porte Toiras and Porte des Campani are open during daylight hours and you can walk or cycle through them.
There’s a cool concept store located by Porte des Campani. Magasin de la Republique is a double height building, and has some stylish furniture and clothing on display.
Saint-Martin-de-Ré Port
There are lots of restaurants and boutiques dotted around the harbour. Check out Mille Sabords on Quai Nicolas Baudin. This is the only shop in France dedicated entirely to Tintin.
11. Les-Portes-en-Ré
Les-Portes-en-Ré is located at the southern tip of the Île de Ré, providing easy access to the island’s beaches and salt marshes.
The town is known for its picturesque harbor, narrow streets, and traditional Ré island architecture, with many historic buildings and homes.
Notable landmarks include the 19th century Fort de la Prée and the Church of Saint-Martin, which dates back to the 12th century.
The picturesque fishing harbor is the heart of the town, lined with colorful boats, seafood restaurants, and charming cafés.
12. Sainte-Marie-de-Ré
Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is another charming commune located on the Île de Ré. The town is situated along the island’s western coastline, facing the Atlantic Ocean.
The historic Church of Saint-Marie, dating back to the 11th century, is a prominent landmark in the town center.
Indulge in fresh seafood, oysters, and the island’s specialty – Fleur de Sel sea salt – at the town’s restaurants and cafés.
Browse the lively market in the town square for local produce, baked goods, crafts, and more.
Ile de Ré Restaurants
Whilst the island is known for its seafood, you can also find some other good dining options such as creperies.
- Le Bistrot du Marin – great views of Saint-Martin-en-Re harbour from this restaurant known for its fillet steak.
- Le Saint Georges – overlooking the port in La Flotte, this restaurant has a large terrace and does good value lunch set menus.
- La Sarrasine – a harbour side creperie at Saint-Martin-en-Re – try the savoury galettes.
- Le Tout du Cru – popular with locals, this casual eatery is a great place to eat fresh seafood in Saint Martin de Re.
- La Tour du Sénéchal – does good brunches and platters, on the church square in Ars-en-Re
- La Martinière – renowned for its ice cream, this gelateria has 66 flavours to savour! There are outlets at quai de La Poithevinière in Saint-Martin, quai de Senac in La Flotte and at the Phare des Baleines. They also sell delicious frozen macarons and cakes at their workshop on rue de Sully in Saint-Martin-de-Re.
Ile de Ré Places to Stay
La Baronnie is an 18th century manor house located in the centre of Saint-Martin-de-Ré. Just a few minutes walk from the harbour, it’s nevertheless a haven of calm.
Step inside the courtyard gardens and you’ll immediately notice the calming atmosphere. Scented candles burn in the lobby where you’ll be warmly greeted by the staff.
This luxurious hotel is family owned and has a very homely feel. You may well meet the owners or their cute dog as you wander around the property.
There are several places to relax in the hotel, including a cosy lounge and a stylish bar with a large courtyard terrace. The bar is open to non residents from 5 to 11 pm each day.
The spa has a large whirlpool bath, patio terrace and sauna. Hotel guests can book it on an exclusive basis for up to two hours.
Having the spa to yourself feels truly relaxing. You can also reserve a spa treatment or simply enjoy a glass of champagne with a loved one.
Each room at Hotel La Baronnie is individually decorated in an elegant style. We recommend the Rose de Parme bedroom, which overlooks one of the courtyards.
As well as the comfy king sized bed, there are two single beds in an alcove, making this an ideal family room. There are also several pavilion rooms with their own entrances if you want some additional privacy.
Breakfast is a hearty affair, with a buffet of hot and cold dishes including cereals, local cheeses and meats and fresh pastries. Try the homemade cake which is delicious!
La Baronnie is the ideal base from which to visit the Ile de Ré in style.
When to Visit Ile de Ré
The most popular months are during school holidays in July and August. Accommodation is at a premium then and it’s wise to book in advance.
If you can travel outside these key periods, you’ll find the island a lot less crowded. May, June, September and beginning of October are all good options.
Ile de Ré Weather
The island benefits from a Mediterranean micro-climate. The warmest months are June, July, August and September with average temperatures between 68 and 77°F.
There are on average 9 hours of sunshine in July and 8 in June and August. The coldest month is usually January, with an average temperatures of 43°F.
October is the wettest month, with 71mm of rain on average. Rain showers are also frequent in April and November. Thankfully they are often short-lived.
Ile de Ré Packing Tips
Travel in style with this elegant suitcase by Samsonite. It’s incredibly lightweight, thanks to the innovative poly material and has an integrated TSA lock. There’s high packing capacity, a zippered top compartment and cross-ribbons on the bottom compartment to stop clothes moving around.
The Cosmolite comes in a range of elegant colours and there are four 360-degree spinner wheels, a retractable main handle and a carry handle.
You can even get the main handle personalized for free! This makes it so easy to spot your case on the luggage carousel.
Due to the rain showers, it’s wise to take a folding umbrella and a waterproof rain jacket. Get one with a hood and a roomy fit.
If you’ll be doing a lot of cycling during your stay, we recommend padded cycling shorts. They really make a difference to your comfort! Here are some stylish women’s cycling clothes including jackets, capri pants and tops.
Bring a metal water flask for bike rides or hiking. It can get quite windy on the island so hair bands for long hair are also a must.
And don’t forget your sun cream! We got rather red as we forgot to put any on our necks and the sun got hotter. A lightweight nylon backpack also comes in really handy for cycling and walking.
How to Get to Ile de Ré
Getting to Ile de Ré is quick and easy, although it can take a bit longer to cross over at the height of Summer.
By Air – La Rochelle Airport (LRH) is located just a few minutes away from the lle de Re bridge. Although it’s an international airport, it has the advantage of being extremely compact.
Passport control and baggage reclaim are usually very quick. There are regular flights from many international airports including Brussels, Dublin, Geneva, London Gatwick, Paris, Porto and Southampton.
By Car – the Ile de Re Bridge connects the island with mainland France. It takes only a few minutes to drive over and is open 24 hours a day. You pay a crossing toll which depends on the season (it’s free for those who live permanently on the island).
If you’re travelling to Ile de Re by taxi it’s best to book a cab in advance. Ask your hotel or accommodation host to book one for you. The taxi fare varies depending on your exact destination and the time of day from around 30 to 40 euros.
By Sea – in Summertime, there are regular boat crossings from La Rochelle harbour and La Tranche-sur-Mer to Saint-Martin-de-Re and you can bring bikes on board. The crossing time is around one hour.
By Train – throughout the year there are regular high speed TGV Atlantique trains to La Rochelle train station from Bordeaux, Nantes and Paris-Montparnasse. The journey time from Paris is 3 hours.
Final Thoughts on the Ile de Ré Vacations
As you can see, this exclusive French island retreat is easily accessible. We hope you’ve enjoyed these suggestions of things to do on Ile de Re. Part of the fun of the island is to set out with no specific agenda and to go where the mood takes you.
Have you ever been to Ile de Re or to France’s Atlantic Coast?
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Thanks to La Baronnie for your warm welcome.
