A Weekend on the Island of Ré
Would you like to plan a weekend on the Island of Ré? You've just arrived on the island, and you're eager to explore every corner of this magical and iconic destination in the Gulf of Aquitaine. But where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve prepared a tailor-made weekend for you, step by step, so you won’t miss anything on this island where life is good.
Saturday Morning
Head to the village of La Flotte, voted the most beautiful village in France, to enjoy a hearty breakfast at the harbor while taking in the lively atmosphere and breathing in the salty air. Don’t miss the market held in semi-covered medieval-style halls. Stock up on local products like sea salt, potatoes, and saffron grown on the island. Then, head towards Saint-Martin-de-Ré for a pleasant stroll along the Vauban fortifications, which form a star shape around the village. Continue to the harbor and walk along the fine sandy beaches, admiring the colorful boats and photographing the charming facades of the typical island houses. Make a detour to the Barbette Park, where you might even encounter the famous donkeys in their little pants! For lunch, choose from the many restaurants that animate the village center, and if you'd like to taste the oysters of the Island of Ré, find a lovely oyster hut by the sea, just 600 meters from the harbor.
Saturday Afternoon
To continue your visit of the Island of Ré in style, rent a bike in Saint-Martin-de-Ré for the rest of the weekend. Don’t forget to pick up a map of the many bike paths available to you; you can find one at the visitor center across from the Ernest Cognacq Museum, right next to the harbor. Then, head to the village of Bois-Plage-en-Ré, and enjoy the ride as you take in your surroundings. A beach break is a must, so choose the Gollandières Beach and spend a pleasant time between sunbathing and swimming. Discover the beautiful beaches of the Island of Ré. Head back for a quick shower and then it’s off to spend the evening in La Couarde-sur-Mer, where you can stroll through the streets in search of a great little restaurant. You can also enjoy an excursion offshore by renting a boat on the Island of Ré. For your overnight stay, why not choose a camping experience with a kids' club, playground, and heated pool on the Atlantic coast, offering direct access to beautiful beaches, perfect for a walk or surfing opportunities.
Sunday Morning
Enjoy the morning light with a breakfast at the square in Ars-en-Ré, where you can admire the iconic black-and-white Gothic bell tower. Once refreshed, wander through the streets for a peaceful visit of this charming, typical village. Then, hop on your bike for a ride through the salt marshes, offering stunning and ever-changing landscapes—don’t forget to bring your camera for some beautiful shots. Head towards the village of Loix, the island within an island! Take your lunch break here, surrounded by the beautiful village square.
Sunday Afternoon
After a short digestive walk through the streets of Loix, hop back on your bike and head to Saint-Clément-des-Baleines. You will climb the many steps of the famous Baleines lighthouse to enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the ocean and the Island of Ré. A unique sight! After the effort, it's time to relax with a refreshing drink before heading to Les Portes-en-Ré for an unforgettable walk through the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve. Here, you’ll have the chance to observe an exceptional flora and fauna, as it is a resting spot for many migratory birds. Sublime! The weekend is almost over, but before you leave, treat yourself to a visit of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré for a little shopping tour through the village shops. There’s no doubt you’ll leave with many images and memories of this charming island.