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Off the Charente coast, Île de Ré is a jewel on the Atlantic Ocean. A mix of rustic and chic, its idyllic landscapes of vineyards, sandy beaches, and salt marshes beckons travellers seeking simplicity for their holidays. More than just a pretty face, the island brims with history, culture, and agricultural and maritime traditions. With a wealth of lovely villages peppered across the island, we have created a guide to help you choose where to stay on Île de Ré.
Though small in size, the island has no shortage of things to do. With limited cars, flat roads, and over 100 kms of cycle paths, the island is one of the best places to bike in France. Sandy beaches, lush pine forests, and sprawling salt marshes form a beautiful, natural mosaic. Explore historic ramparts, lighthouses, and abbeys followed by locally-sourced meals at delicious restaurants. There is truly something for everyone at this wonderfully laidback destination that blends luxury with rustic.
There is not just one nicest village on the Île de Ré, as each has its own unique charm. From historic harbors to serene beaches, here are our favourites and what makes them special.
Classified among the most beautiful villages in France, Ars-en-Ré is situated between a lush landscape of vineyards. Held between April and September, the vibrant daily market is one of the main draws. Visit the emblematic 15th-century Sainte-Etienne church topped by a Gothic-style bell tower. At low tide, the Plage de la Grange beach is ideal for experiencing the local activity of fishing on foot.
Nestled between pine forests, salt marshes, and sandy beaches, Les Portes-en-Ré is a real charmer. Stroll the flower-filled streets lined with traditional white houses decorated with colourful shutters. Explore the area's natural beauty via the meandering cycle paths. Learn about the island's famous fleur de sel production at the Loix Salt Marsh Ecomuseum. Head to nearby La Flotte to discover the mystical 12th-century Châteliers Abbey.
Home to the island's largest market that bursts with 150 vendors, the lesser-known Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré is a true gem. There are a wealth of activities for a fun-filled holiday. Enjoy the lively market atmosphere followed by a coffee at a shady terrace on the church square. Have your Villanovo concierge rent you bikes to explore beyond town. Take a beautiful walk past the large sand dunes along the coast. For fans of surfing, Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré has some of the best surf spots on the island.
One of the island's oldest towns is set between vineyards and the Atlantic Ocean on the south coast. Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is perfect for a calm holiday. It has preserved its authentic character thanks to historic winegrowers' houses, chapels, and walled gardens. Experience the village's longstanding agricultural traditions up close at the oyster beds, followed by an ocean-to-table tasting at one of the seafood shacks.
The historic capital of Île de Ré captivates with its picturesque harbor of fishing boats surrounded by lively cafes and restaurants. Marvel at the 18th-century fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site by built by the great military engineer, Vauban. Stroll past the pretty bourgeois houses in the town centre followed by an alfresco meal on a terrace. If you are looking for a town with plenty of things to do, Saint-Martin-de-Ré is for you.
On the western edge of Île de Ré, picturesque Saint-Clément-des-Baleines is an escape from the busier parts of the island. People come for the unspoilt coastline and superb sandy beaches, like the woodland-bordered Conche, that beckon strolls. Climb the 257 steps at the octogonal Baleines Lighthouse to soak up a 360° view of the island and the ocean. Wander past fishing boats in the authentic village. Saint-Clément-des-Baleines is where you want to stay on Île de Ré for a relaxing getaway.
Springtime marks the arrival of wildflowers and migratory birds. For those seeking fun in the sun, the best time to visit Île de Ré is the summer, when the warm weather is ideal for water sports, picnics, and long days on the beach. The more laidback autumn appeals to surfers and visitors who want to experience the wine harvest. Experience Île de Ré like a local in the winter, when the island is at its most authentic, without tourists.
There are many ways to get to Île de Ré. Flights land in nearby La Rochelle between March and October. Take the Eurostar from London, a 7-hour journey, or a 3-hour train from Paris. Île de Ré is just a 2-hour drive from Bordeaux - the bridge that connects the island to the mainland is a beautiful drive. Or, board the 1-hour ferry to Saint-Martin-de-Ré from La Rochelle.
Villanovo offers a choice selection of luxury villas on Ile de Ré. Choose from villas with private pools, heated swimming pools, private gardens, direct access to the beach, jacuzzis and more.
Want to know where to stay on Île de Ré? Our villas are located in the most sought-after destinations: Ars-en-Ré, Les-Portes-en-Ré, Le-Bois-Plage-en-Ré, Saint-Marie-de-Ré, Saint-Martin-de-Ré, and Saint-Clément-des-Baleines.
For a perfectly orchestrated adventure, trust Villanovo's concierge services. Our attentive concierges will take care of all the details so that you can concentrate on creating precious memories with your loved ones, family or friends.
This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, booking a wide range of activities and amenities like bike rentals for Ile de Ré's famous cycle paths, a relaxing thalassotherapy spa, childcare, a private chef, and more. During your stay in one of our villas on Île de Ré, Villanovo offers you a travel diary. In it, we share with you our insider recommendations for the best restaurants, boutiques, and other experiences to discover on this enchanting island.
