Île de Ré Travel Guide: Complete Guide to France's Hidden Atlantic Island Paradise
- Kelsey Kirgo
- Nov 5, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: 19 minutes ago
Île de Ré is a French island sanctuary where time seems to slow down. Visitors can immerse themselves in its natural beauty, rich history and coastal charm. With its picturesque villages, sandy beaches and diverse landscapes, Île de Ré offers a distinctive seaside experience for travelers looking to visit France’s Atlantic coast.
You'll wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with charming, whitewashed houses adorned with colorful shutters, each telling a tale of centuries gone by. Île de Ré, France is also a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From windswept dunes to lush salt marshes, the island's diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, cycling, sailing and tasting the island’s well-preserved culinary traditions.
Whether you're exploring the Atlantic coast or venturing inland to the Loire Valley's historic towns like Orléans, France rewards those who wander beyond Paris.
Where to Stay in Île de Ré, France
Île de Ré may be small, but when it comes to hotels, it knows how to deliver style, charm, and a little bit of indulgence. Here are three of my favorite places to call home while you’re exploring the island:
Le Lanternon - Boutique Charm in Île de Ré (St. Martin)
Think of Le Lanternon as your chic friend’s seaside house—the one with impeccable taste and just the right amount of character. With only a handful of rooms, this boutique stay feels intimate and personal. You’ll find sunny garden corners, a heated pool, and views over the harbor if you snag the right room. It’s ideal if you want a quiet base with plenty of charm.
Hôtel de Toiras - Luxury Waterfront Accommodation
If waking up right on Saint-Martin’s postcard-perfect port sounds like your vibe, Hôtel de Toiras is the spot. This Relais & Châteaux property brings five-star service, elegant rooms, and a restaurant worth lingering over. It’s grand without being pretentious, and the location means you’re steps from cafés, boutiques, and the island’s best people-watching.
Villa Clarisse & Spa - Intimate Spa Experience
Villa Clarisse is Hôtel de Toiras’ little sister—more private, more serene, and tucked away just a short stroll from the harbor. With only nine rooms, it feels like your own stylish hideaway, complete with a garden pool and spa. Guests can dip into the calm here, then pop over to Hôtel de Toiras when they’re ready for a cocktail on the port.
✨ Kirgo Travel Tip: These gems book up fast in summer (especially July and August), so plan ahead. I’ll happily handle the details for you—ensuring you land the perfect room for your island escape.
Things to do in Île de Ré, France
Visit the National Nature Reserve Lilleau des Niges: Spread between the villages of Les Portes-en-Ré and Ars-en-Ré, the nature reserve is home to over 300 bird species and diverse flora. The reserve plays a huge role in maintaining the biodiversity of the island. Although you cannot enter the reserve by foot, the best way to tour the nature reserve (and the island in general) is via the bike paths surrounding the refuge.
Tour a salt marsh: Salt production methods on Île de Ré haven’t changed since the Middle Ages. The island's inhabitants have implemented a series of levees to protect parts of the island from high tides. At its peak, over 1,000 “sauniers” worked their craft across the island, carefully cultivating over 30,000 tons of salt per year. Today, the island is home to 70 sauniers who produce three types of salts using the traditional methods preserved and sold via Coopérative des Sauniers on the Île de Ré. To learn more about the salt marshes and this unique ecosystem, you can visit the Ecomuseum of the Salt Marshes in the village of Loix from March until September.
Rent bikes and discover the island's ten unique villages: Île de Ré boasts over 100 kilometers of well-maintained bike paths that are car-free, relatively flat and family friendly. You will be able to rent bicycles at local shops across the island’s ten villages and travel seamlessly. Well-labeled directives that guide you between each of the island’s unique villages, known in French as communes.
Take a surf lesson: If you are looking to catch some waves or give kitesurfing a try, head to one of the islands several surf schools for a private or group lesson!
Climb the Phare des Baleines (Lighthouse of the Whales): Located on the tip of the island in the village of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines. At 57 meters, Phare des Baleines is one of the tallest lighthouses in France. At the top of the lighthouse (250 stairs) you will have sweeping views of the Ocean and the beauty of the island.
Hit the beach: Île de Ré has several beautiful beaches that allow you to soak up the sun or enjoy a scenic beach walk in the colder months.
See the famous donkeys in Trousers: A true symbol of the island! Agricultural workers across the island began dressing their donkeys in pants to protect them from the flies and mosquitoes that are found in abundance in the salt marshes across the island. Although donkeys are less prevalent across the island today, you can catch a glimpse of the donkeys in trousers on the outskirts of the village of Saint Martin de Ré at Parc de la Barbette! Recommendation: Try one of the artisan soaps made from donkeys milk as a souvenir from your trip!
Visit the vineyards across the island: Producing reds, whites and rosés across the islands 580 acres of vineyards, every wine enthusiast will find a bottle that suits their palette! Domaine Arnica is an organic winery on the outskirts.
Visit an oyster farm: Visiting an oyster farm on Île de Ré is a delightful and immersive experience that offers a unique glimpse into the traditional art of oyster farming.
How to Get to Île de Ré, France
Getting there is easier than you might think, whether you’re driving, sailing in, or flying from abroad. Here’s how to reach this idyllic island:
By Car - Île de Ré is connected to mainland France by a 3-kilometer toll bridge from the city of La Rochelle. Once over the bridge, you can easily explore the island by car, although many visitors prefer to park and switch to bikes to get around. The drive from Paris CDG Airport to La Rochelle takes about 4.5 to 5 hours.
By Boat - During the summer months, several ferry services operate between La Rochelle or La Tranche and ports like Saint-Martin-de-Ré or La Flotte. These scenic crossings typically take around 45 minutes and are a lovely, leisurely way to arrive on the island.
By Air - The closest airport is La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport (LRH), just a 10-minute drive from the island bridge. It offers seasonal flights from cities like Paris, London, Dublin, and Brussels. Alternatively, you can fly into Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) or Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD), each about a 2–2.5 hour drive from Île de Ré.
Pro Tip: No matter how you arrive, pack comfortable shoes or rent a bike—Île de Ré is best explored at a relaxed pace, one charming village at a time.
When to Go to Île de Ré
July and August are peak season and will be full of locals and tourists. The population of the island swells. My favorite time to visit are September when the crowds have died down but the weather is still warm or December. The island opens back up for Christmas and is a great place to spend the holidays!
Places to eat & drink in Île de Ré, France
La Martiniere – Artisan Ice Cream Parlor
This family-run ice cream salon began in Saint-Martin-de-Ré and has grown to include shops in several other towns on Île de Ré. Expect the best salted caramel ice cream you'll ever taste. Dare to try some of the shop's more unique flavors, such as rock or oyster-flavored ice cream—a true taste of the island!
George's – Fine Dining with Ocean Views
George's is a celebration of the region's finest ingredients, with a focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. Nestled in a picturesque location with stunning views of the surrounding landscape of Saint-Martin, George's offers a serene and inviting atmosphere for discerning diners seeking authentic French cuisine.
Le Serghi – Marina-Side Dining
Nestled in the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, this charming eatery offers guests an inviting atmosphere where they can enjoy exquisite dishes while taking in the picturesque views of the marina. Perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Nora Restaurant Bar – Modern French Cuisine
The bar at Nora offers a curated selection of wines, cocktails, and local beverages that perfectly complement the seasonal menu. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch, a sunset dinner, or simply stopping by for drinks, the ambiance is always inviting, with modern décor and a warm, friendly atmosphere that captures contemporary French island living.
Restaurant La Maison – Refined Island Dining
Tucked away in a beautifully restored building, La Maison offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Every detail—from the décor to the attentive service—has been thoughtfully curated to create an exceptional dining experience showcasing the best of French gastronomy.
Le Cabane de Feneau – Authentic Seafood Experience
Le Cabane de Feneau is a quintessential Île de Ré dining experience that captures the rustic charm and authenticity of the island. Located in a serene coastal setting, this restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere where guests can unwind and savor the freshest seafood the region has to offer, from oysters to locally caught fish.
Plan Your Dream Île de Ré Vacation with Expert Travel Planning
Ready to experience the magic of Île de Ré for yourself? From charming whitewashed villages and pristine beaches to world-class cuisine and unique cultural experiences, this French Atlantic island paradise offers everything you need for an unforgettable getaway.
Whether you're dreaming of cycling through salt marshes, sipping local wine at sunset, indulging in fresh oysters by the harbor, or simply relaxing in a boutique seaside hotel, Île de Ré delivers an authentic French coastal experience that rivals any destination in France.
As a specialist in curated French travel experiences, I'll handle every detail—from securing reservations at the island's most sought-after hotels to arranging private vineyard tours, oyster farm visits, and exclusive dining experiences. You'll enjoy insider access to hidden gems that most tourists never discover.
Ready to Start Planning?
Contact Kirgo Travel today to begin designing your personalized Île de Ré escape. Your French island adventure awaits—let's make it extraordinary.
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