What to do on the Ile de Ré?
10 places not to be missed
Have you chosen the Île de Ré for your vacation and are you wondering what the must-see places to visit are? Let yourself be seduced by its gentle way of life, its climate, and the charm of its small villages. Ideally located, the Rhéa residence will allow you to discover all the beauties of the island. Here, in our opinion, are the 10 places and activities not to be missed.
Explore the Ile de Ré by bike
With 140 kilometers of cycle paths and little difference in altitude, the Île de Ré is ideally visited by bike, at your own pace, in “slow” mode! Fishing villages , picturesque ports, crossing forests: you will be amazed! Discover, for example, Ars-en-Ré and its white bell tower with a black spire, once a landmark for sailors, as well as La Flotte , its medieval port and its colorful streets: both are among the most beautiful villages in France . Classic or electric bikes, tricycles, trailers or trackers for children: find your ideal bike thanks to the many rental companies on the island. Please note, in high season, reservations are strongly recommended.
Visit Saint-Martin-de-Ré
A stone’s throw from the Rhéa residence, discover Saint-Martin-de-Ré and its Vauban fortifications, built between 1681 and 1691 during the reign of Louis XIV. These 14 kilometers of ramparts which encircle the city are classified as UNESCO heritage sites and are one of the must-see places to see on the Ile de Ré! If the height doesn’t scare you, steel yourself to climb the 117 steps to the bell tower of the 16th century Saint-Martin church. From up there, the panorama of the city and surrounding villages is unique! In the evening or during the day, stroll through the streets between the boutiques, artists’ studios, shops and restaurants, or enjoy a stroll on the port while enjoying an ice cream.
Embark on a sea cruise
Departing from the port of Saint-Martin de Ré, take your ticket to tour the island by boat. From the sea, a completely different point of view is available to you! Long beaches of fine sand, secret coves and port villages are sure to charm you! Fans of the famous game show will be able to admire Fort Boyard up close .
Climb to the top of the Baleines lighthouse
At 57 meters high, take in the exceptional panorama that is revealed before you, at the very top of this lighthouse inaugurated in 1854. At its foot, the Whale Museum offers you a retrospective of the history of lighthouses in France and around the world, and will fascinate young and old alike
Discover local products from Île de Ré
Tasting oysters in an oyster cabin, tasting biscuits, jams, honey or chocolates, savoring an extra fresh seafood platter facing the ocean, or even visiting a wine estate… Enjoy all the delights and delicacies that the Ile de Ré has to offer you. And the best place to find them is at farmers’ markets . Every day has its own village: you will always find a market on the Ile de Ré!
Explore the salt marshes of Île de Ré
The salt works have long been the flagship activity, at least until the 19th century. And the marsh landscapes are undeniably part of the island’s postcard. Today, around a hundred salt workers perpetuate the tradition, with techniques that have remained almost intact since the Middle Ages. Visit the salt marsh ecomuseum to understand everything about the history of salt farming, then take a guided tour of the marshes to discover the journey of water from the sea to the salt harvest.
Walk in the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve
Home to thousands of migratory birds in spring and autumn, a peaceful and preserved place, the Lilleau des Niges reserve is a paradise for nature lovers and ornithology enthusiasts. You can discover it by walking its many developed trails , or take part in an outing organized by the LPO to observe birds and plants. Original: visit the nature reserve by canoe for 100% immersion!
Learn about fishing on foot or at sea
Are you staying on Île de Ré during high tides? This is a good time to go fishing on foot . But be careful to respect the regulations in force and to inform yourself about possible restrictions. To do this, check with the tourist office before going out. More of a fan of sea fishing ? Embark with a professional to discover the profession on a daily basis and introduce yourself to different techniques.
Discover the cultural heritage of Île de Ré
If you want to know the history of the Ile de Ré and its heritage, discover the Abbaye des Châteliers , a haven of peace from the 12th century, and the first place of wine and salt production on the island. ‘island. Also visit the Platin Museum and the Ernest Cognacq Museum, as well as Fort-la-Prée, the oldest fortifications on the island, built in 1625 under Louis XIII.
Spend a day at the beach
What would a vacation on the Ile de Ré be without a day at the beach? Relaxing on the fine sand or castle competitions, racket games or windsurfing: the choice is yours!
The beaches of Trousse Chemise or that of Arnérault are ideal for families with young children, while those of Conche des Baleines or Grenettes are more conducive to the practice of water sports: surfing, windsurfing, or even kitesurfing. As for Gollandières beach , it will offer you a magnificent view of the island of Oléron.
Have we managed to convince you that the Ile de Ré is one of the most beautiful destinations for your next vacation? The Le Clos Rhéa tourist residence , in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, will be the ideal base for discovering all these wonders, for a week or a weekend. For rental or guest room , enjoy the peaceful setting of a residence with swimming pool and spa in a residence of character, a stone’s throw from the beach!
