Situated off the west coast of France, the idyllic Île de Ré measures roughly 19 miles in length and three miles in width. The destination is home to quaint villages featuring whitewashed houses adorned with pastel-shuttered windows. Visitors travelling to this French island find a blend of historic architecture, local culinary delights, and coastal relaxation.
A long weekend on the island often begins at La Baronnie, an elegant mansion house in Saint-Martin-de-Ré. King Louis XVI originally gave this property to Marie Antoinette back in 1785. Guests can enjoy a brunch buffet priced at £44 each, which includes a glass of fizz, local cheeses, smoked trout, and fresh oysters.
Exploring the Capital of Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Travellers can begin their exploration in the capital, Saint-Martin-de-Ré, by strolling past the handsome Citadelle Vauban and the historic harbour. The backstreets brim with independent shops selling regional specialities such as salt and soap. At Esprit du Sel, seasoning costs £4.80, while a perfumed trio of fig, caramel and violet soap at Loix & Savons costs £16.50.
Fashion boutiques line the streets, including Équateur and classic swimwear shop Pile ou Face. Another notable find is 29 on Rue Jean Jaurès, where every item is priced at €29. For lunch, quirky restaurant Le Tout du Cru offers seafood dishes such as a delicate half crab for £16.50 and blue lobster with home-made mayonnaise for £41.50.
Dessert can be found at La Martinière parlour, where blackcurrant and violet ice cream scoops cost £3.20 each. From there, visitors can make the 20-minute drive to Ars-en-Ré and stay at Hôtel Le Sénéchal. Double rooms at this hotel start from £81 per night, offering a quiet oasis featuring floral courtyards, a heated outdoor pool, and rooms styled in dusky blues and creams.
Cycling Across the Island and Golden Beaches
The island encourages outdoor exploration on two wheels, with daily bike hire available from Les Cycles N for £11 per adult. Cyclists can embark on routes such as a 15km circular journey past salt marshes and coastal views. Key travel logistics include flights to La Rochelle airport starting from £31 return, and a bridge crossing to Île de Ré costing from £3.50 per car.
Highlights of a cycling or driving tour include the towering 57-metre-tall Lighthouse Of The Whales. Visitors can also wander across the sweeping golden sands of La Conche beach. In the village of Les Portes-en-Ré, stylish eatery La Bazenne serves a dozen oysters for £21.50.
Nature enthusiasts can visit the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve to observe thriving birdlife and shimmering salt marshes. Evening dining options include Le Café du Commerce by the port, where traditional moules marinières with fries costs £16.75.
Unwinding at Coastal Spas on Île de Ré
Visitors seeking relaxation can visit Relais Thalasso's coastal spa, located a 10-minute drive from the bridge leading back to the French mainland. Operating under the motto that the sea takes care of you, the Marine Spa charges £43 each for a full day of access.
The spa facilities feature an indoor seawater pool equipped with bubble benches and massage jets. Guests also have access to a hammam, sauna, sensory shower trail, herbal tea room, and a gorgeous outdoor pool before heading home.
