Today we are visiting the Ile de Re, an island just off La Rochelle on the French Atlantic coast in the Charente Maritime region. It is a beautiful place to visit. Characterised by its laid back, relaxing atmosphere. An ideal destination for a villa holiday.

Click here to go straight to the selection of over 40 beautiful villas from our partners Villanovo. You can click any of the images as you read the article to go straight to the villas. You’ll find out more about some of the best places to stay on the island in the Sites to See and Villa Rentals sections.

To find out more about this enticing island and its many attractions, read on.

Ile de Ré, is a small but enchanting island known for its pristine beaches, charming villages, and historical significance. About 30 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide, it is easily accessible via a 3 kilometer toll bridge that connects it to the mainland city of La Rochelle. The island is a beloved destination for both French and international visitors, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and modern luxury.

 History of Île de Ré

 The history of Île de Ré is deeply tied to its strategic maritime location. Since the Middle Ages, it has been a prized territory, often caught in the crossfire of territorial disputes. During the 17th century, the island was a battleground in the Anglo-French conflicts, including the Siege of Saint Martin de Ré in 1627, when English forces attempted to take the island but were repelled by French troops.

Fortifications played a crucial role in the island’s defense. The most notable structure is the Citadel of Saint-Martin de Ré, designed by the famous French military engineer Vauban, who worked under King Louis XIV. This fortified town remains largely intact and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

 Over the centuries,Île de Ré evolved from a military outpost to a fishing and salt production hub. Today, while tourism is its main industry, remnants of its past like the old salt marshes are still visible across the landscape.

Sights to See

Ile de Ré may be small, but it’s rich in attractions and natural beauty. Key sights include:

1. Saint-Martin-de-Ré: The island’s historical capital is famous for its well-preserved Vauban fortifications and charming harbour. Visitors can stroll along the ancient walls, explore narrow cobbled streets, and enjoy the village’s artisanal shops.
2. Phare des Baleines (pictured): This iconic lighthouse, located on the island’s western tip, offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Climbing its 257 steps is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views

1. La Flotte: One of the island’s most beautiful villages, La Flotte boasts a quaint harbor and a lively market. The 12th-century Abbey des Châteliers, located nearby, adds to the historical charm of the area.
2. Ars-en-Ré: Known for its striking black and white church spire, this village is a delightful stop for architecture enthusiasts. The surrounding salt marshes are also a reminder of the island’s traditional salt production industry.
3. Salt Marshes and Oyster Farms: For a more immersive experience, visitors can explore the Marais Salants, where salt is still harvested today, or visit one of the many oyster farms to learn about the island’s oyster cultivation.

Food and Drink

Île de Ré is a paradise for food lovers, with its cuisine heavily influenced by the sea and its agricultural traditions. Fresh seafood is at the heart of many dishes, particularly oysters, which are farmed extensively on the island. The local oysters are renowned for their briny flavor, and visitors can sample them at seaside markets or directly at the oyster farms.

Local restaurants often feature moules et frites (mussels with fries), langoustines, and clams. The island is also famous for its potatoes—La Pomme de Terre de l’île de Ré—a variety that has been awarded the prestigious Label Rouge certification for quality. These small, firm potatoes have a unique flavour thanks to the island’s sandy, saline soil.

For dessert, you can indulge in île flottante, a delicate meringue dessert floating on vanilla custard, or caramelized salted butter treats made from the local salt. To accompany meals, locals and tourists alike enjoy a glass of the island’s crisp white wine, or Pineau des Charentes, a fortified wine from the nearby Cognac region.

 Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Serenity

 The beaches of Île de Ré are some of the finest in France, offering soft sands, calm waters, and a variety of atmospheres depending on which coast you choose to visit.

In addition to sunbathing and swimming, many beaches on Île de Ré are ideal for shellfish gathering (pêche à pied) during low tide, a favorite pastime of both locals and tourists.

1. Plage de la Conche des Baleines: Located near the Phare des Baleines, this long stretch of sand is one of the island’s most popular beaches. It’s perfect for families and sunbathers, with clear waters ideal for swimming.
2. Plage du Gros Jonc: On the southern side of the island, this beach offers great facilities for watersports such as windsurfing, sailing, and kitesurfing. There are also several beachfront cafes for snacks and refreshments.
3. Plage des Gollandières: Located near Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, this beach offers a more tranquil environment, making it a favorite for those seeking a quieter experience.
4. Plage de la Patache: For a more secluded experience, this beach in the north of the island is a hidden gem. It’s less frequented by tourists and offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded spots.

 Villa Rentals: A Luxurious Stay

One of the most popular ways to enjoy the island is by renting a villa, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the slow paced, sun soaked lifestyle of Île de Ré. The island is known for its luxurious yet understated vacation homes, many of which are designed in traditional Rétais style, low, whitewashed buildings with green or blue shutters and terracotta roof tiles. Villas range from rustic cottages nestled in the countryside to modern, beachfront properties with private pools. St-Martin-de-Ré, Ars-en-Ré, and La Flotte are among the most popular locations for villa rentals, offering easy access to local markets, beaches, and restaurants.

 Cycling:

Île de Ré is great place to get around by bicycle. The island’s compact size (30 kilometers long and about 5 kilometers wide) makes it ideal for exploring by bike. Cars are discouraged in many areas, and the cycle paths, known locally as “voies vertes,” are separated from road traffic, ensuring safety for cyclists. The tranquil atmosphere, minimal elevation, and picturesque landscapes make every ride an enjoyable experience.

 Cycling is also a key part of the island’s identity. Most locals prefer bicycles as their primary mode of transport, contributing to the relaxed and environmentally conscious lifestyle of Île de Ré. For visitors, renting a bike is not just a practical way to get around, but also an integral part of the island experience.

Cycle Routes and Popular Trails

Here are a few of the most popular and scenic routes on the island. 

1. Saint-Martin-de-Ré to La Flotte 

One of the most scenic routes on the island, this ride takes you along the coast, passing by the historic Vauban fortifications of Saint-Martin-de-Ré and leading to the picturesque harbor village of La Flotte. It’s a relatively short, 5-kilometer ride, perfect for an afternoon outing. La Flotte’s open-air market and charming cafés make for a great stop.

2. Loix and the Salt Marshes 

 For a more immersive experience of the island’s natural beauty, head to Loix, a small village located on a peninsula surrounded by salt marshes. The 20-kilometer route from Ars-en-Ré to Loix takes you through the famous Marais Salants, where you can see the traditional salt harvesting and enjoy the serene wetlands. This path is particularly peaceful and offers glimpses of the island’s wildlife.

3. Phare des Baleines Loop 

This 25 kilometer loop leads to one of the island’s iconic landmarks, the Phare des Baleines lighthouse. Starting from Ars-en-Ré, you’ll cycle through pine forests, past dunes, and along beautiful beaches. Once at the lighthouse, you can take a break to climb its 257 steps for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

4. La Couarde-sur-Mer to Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré

 If you want to experience the island’s southern beaches, this 10-kilometer route is perfect. You’ll cycle through vineyards, past sunflower fields, and along sandy dunes before reaching the lively beach towns. Both La Couarde-sur-Mer and Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré offer excellent spots for a swim or a picnic on the beach. 

5. Ars-en-Ré to Saint-Clément-des-Baleine

Another favorite route, this trail stretches along the wild northern coastline. At around 13 kilometers, it passes through the historic village of Ars-en-Ré, known for its black-and-white church spire, and ends at the serene beaches near Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, a less crowded part of the island that offers peaceful solitude.

 Bike rentals are widely available across the island, with many options for both traditional and electric bicycles (e-bikes). Rental shops are found in most villages, especially in popular towns like Saint-Martin-de-Ré, La Flotte, and Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré. Many rentals come with baskets or child seats, and some even offer bike trailers for families with young children. The cost of renting a bike is affordable, with prices starting at around €10-15 per day for a standard bike and slightly higher for e-bikes. Longer rentals are available at discounted rates, making it easy to rent for the duration of your stay.

 With its rich history, selection of luxurious villas to rent, stunning beaches, and mouthwatering cuisine, Ile de Ré is a destination that seamlessly blends tradition with modern luxury. Whether you’re cycling through its charming villages, savouring local oysters, or simply relaxing on a sun-soaked beach, this island offers an unforgettable slice of French coastal life. It’s no wonder that Ile de Ré is considered one of France’s most treasured holiday destinations.