What to do on the Isle of Ré? Don't miss any of the must-sees!

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In the middle of the ocean, between the Île d’Yeu and the Île d’Oléron, Ré is a true jewel of the Atlantic coast. A high place of tourism in Charente, it is an unforgettable getaway if you are staying in the surrounding area. Between nature, culture and relaxation, discover the must-do activities on Île de Ré and prepare your visit now! 

Discovering the charming villages of Ré

With their pretty white houses with green shutters and their paved streets lined with hollyhocks, the villages of Île de Ré have an extraordinary charm. 

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• In Ars-en-Ré: discover the Romanesque and Gothic style church and its black and white bell tower culminating at 40 m high;
• In Saint-Martin-de-Ré: take a tour of the beautiful boutiques and artists' studios and visit the Vauban fortifications erected on the banks of the island's capital;
• In La-Couarde-sur-Mer, treat yourself to a swim in the crystal clear waters of the Pergola;
• In Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, visit the famous Phare des Baleines housing a small museum;
• In La Flotte-en-Ré, stroll along the quays of the port.

True mascots, the donkeys in culottes are emblematic of the island. You will certainly cross their path during your Ré excursion!

Lounging on the beaches of Ré

Just like the beaches of La Rochelle, the beaches of Île de Ré are among the most beautiful on the Atlantic coast. Lover of idleness, shore fishing or water sports, let yourself be charmed by the vast stretches of fine sand, the secret coves or the wild coast and its magnificent waves. A small paradise for enthusiasts of surfing, longboarding, stand up paddle, windsurfing, sea kayaking, etc. 

Visiting the salt marshes

Did you know that 30,000 tons of salt are produced on Ré each year? While salt workers numbered in the thousands in the last century, the activity has considerably reduced over time. However, thanks to its salt cooperative, the Ré salt production is perpetuated in the superb salt marshes of the island. Unmissable during your visit to Île de Ré, the walk in the marshes will allow you to learn more about the work of the Salt workers and to discover the particular fauna of this ecosystem. The little extra: enjoy the magical light on the salt marshes at sunset.

Discovering the island by bike

Cycling is undoubtedly the best way to enjoy the superb landscapes of Île de Ré. Many cycle paths crisscross the territory. They will allow you to discover the island villages, the local beaches and the riches of the coast but also the interior of the island and its pretty forests.

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Between Ars-en-Ré and Les-Portes-en-Ré, in the north of the island, the large Lilleau des Liges national nature reserve is the refuge of many birds. Athlete or cycling tourist, you will inevitably find your happiness on the 138 km of developed paths! In addition, the bridge is free for pedestrians and cyclists. Ready to go on an adventure?

Tasting the local products of Charente-Maritime

Rich in a varied gastronomic heritage, Île de Ré promises you beautiful taste discoveries! Among the emblematic products of its terroir, you can taste: 

• oysters produced and refined on site;
• fleur de sel from the local marshes;
• chocolate, salted butter caramel, biscuits and other sweets made artisanally on the island; 
• rate, tasty new potato AOP grown by Ré farmers; 
• 100% organic beer and wine from local breweries and vineyards.

A festival of salty and sweet flavors, also highlighted in the best restaurants of La Rochelle and on the La Rochelle markets.

How to get to Île de Ré

Île de Ré is accessible by various means: 

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• By car, a bridge of nearly 3km connects it to the city of La Rochelle. Attention, the passage is subject to an eco-tax whose price varies according to the type of vehicle and the season.
• On foot or by bike, the passage is free. Separate lanes allow you to cross the bridge safely.
• If you arrive by train, shuttles from La Rochelle train station serve the Ré communes every day. Take the opportunity to visit La Rochelle, a seaside city and major port city in the region!
• By plane, La Rochelle-île de Ré airport offers daily connections with the largest cities in France and Europe. 
• Are you arriving by boat? Ars-en-Ré, La Flotte, Rivedoux-Plage and Saint-Martin-de-Ré have visitor rings: contact the island harbor masters to organize your arrival! In the summer season, you can also board a shuttle from the port of La Rochelle. Three piers are provided, two of them on the city side (Vieux-Port and esplanade Saint-Jean d’Acre) and one on the Minimes side, near La Rochelle Aquarium and the Maritime Museum of La Rochelle. 

Your hotel near Île de Ré

Are you looking for a comfortable and well located hotel near Île de Ré? Put down your suitcases in one of our La Rochelle establishments and taste the charm of the region in any season! 

Close to the main historical monuments and museums of La Rochelle, but also the most beautiful beaches of the coast, our hotels welcome you all year round for family vacations, a solo stay or a weekend getaway. In our establishments, you also benefit from an ideal location to attend La Rochelle cultural and sporting events (rugby match at the Marcel Deflandre stadium, Grand Pavois, Francofolies de La Rochelle, etc.).

Lodged in a double or family room with private bathroom, we offer you all the B&B HOTELS services at friendly prices. Book your hotel in Poitou Charentes now!