The island of Ré, in a week, by bike

Arriving on the Ile de Ré and getting your bearings

When you arrive on the Ile de Ré, just over the bridge, you’ll come across the first village, Rivedoux-Plage. Take the opportunity to visit it, go to the beach and stop off at the tourist information office for the week’s entertainment program, advice on organizing your stay on the island, tourist brochures such as the map of cycling routes, etc. It’s time to acclimatize and relax to get your vacation off to a good start.

Once you’re equipped for the week, head to your accommodation to drop off your belongings, then visit your village before picking up your bikes from a rental company.

Finish off the day with dinner before enjoying your week’s cycling on the Ile de Ré.

Discovering maritime flora and fauna in the north

This day will be spent entirely in the north of the island. This wilder part of the island is ideal for cycling. Head for the Phare des Baleines lighthouse to climb to its summit, 60m high, and enjoy the breathtaking view over the Breton inlet, before stopping off to visit the museum.

It’s worth the effort, believe us!

Once back down, hop on your bike and head for the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve, where you can visit the Maison du Fier. This museum, which showcases the island’s rich biodiversity, revolves around the salt marshes and its reception point for migratory birds. Continue your walk towards Trousse-Chemise beach.

Tide permitting, you’ll have access to the Banc du Bûcheron, a unique opportunity to unwind.

Between villages and the ocean, discovering our heritage

The third day of the trip will focus on the ocean and village visits, starting with a tour of the remains of the Abbaye des Châteliers. After discovering one of the most beautiful monuments in the Retais, we’ll head for La Flotte.

Classed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, enjoy strolls around the port, along the coastline, through the flower-filled lanes, not forgetting an unmissable stop at the medieval-inspired market.

After discovering La Flotte, get back on your bike and head for Sainte-Marie. On the program: a visit to a lively village and discovery of its flower-filled lanes and alleyways, its querries, as well as its vine-dotted coastline.

Take the opportunity to visit the A.N.C.R.E. Maritaise, which invites you to discover the natural and built heritage of the Ile de Ré, and even the possibility of visiting a fish lock.

Saint-Martin’s heritage and gentle way of life

Saint-Martin is renowned for its heritage, particularly its fortifications. Stroll through the heart of the fortifications and you’ll see that time seems to stand still! The village also boasts a lively port, picturesque alleyways and local boutiques. Stroll through the flower-filled alleyways in springtime and discover a village full of charm and secrets.

Lunch on a terrace by the harbor or in one of the many lanes, then enjoy a delicious ice cream while taking in the ambience of this village, considered the capital of the Ile de Ré.

In the middle of the afternoon, continue your day by heading to La Couarde-sur-mer for an afternoon of idleness and, if you feel like it, a session of water sports: surfing, paddle-boarding, windsurfing and other sporty and rejuvenating activities!

In the evening, take advantage of the sunshine for a picnic on the beach or dinner on the terrace. Ain’t life grand?

Between land and sea, discover the vineyards and Fier d’Ars

This morning, head for the vineyards of the Retais, accompanied by a professional winemaker, to discover the secrets of an ancestral know-how. He’ll teach you the basics of his trade and enthusiastically share his passion with you. Take advantage of the opportunity to taste the local wine dishes and buy a bottle for a future aperitif or meal with friends. Drink in moderation, of course!

In the afternoon, head to the north of the island for a canoe trip on the Fier d’Ars. This is the ideal place to relax and admire the breathtaking scenery. Canoe trips are a great way to get together for an unforgettable time, whether you’re a couple or a group.

Take the opportunity to discover Loix and its craft village, where you’ll find a honey factory, soap factory and antique bookbinding workshop.

Crafts and sports at Le Bois and La Couarde

The day begins with a visit to the Bois-Plage market, the largest on the island in terms of size and number of stallholders. Come and meet the local market gardeners and producers, who will be delighted to share their passion with you and let you taste their specialities. Shop for a picnic on the beach or enjoy lunch on the terrace.

After a stroll along the ocean, head to a sailing or surfing school to discover the different water sports available. From surfing to paddleboarding to windsurfing, let yourself be tempted by an afternoon of fun and sport.

You can round off your day with a visit to a salt-maker to learn more about the age-old skill of salt production. Finally, don’t hesitate to indulge in an oyster tasting session in an oyster hut as the sun sets.

Shopping and memories of an unforgettable week

On this penultimate day, visit local producers, market-gardeners and tourist offices to take home the souvenirs of your week in Retour.

From soap and cookies to honey, potatoes, salt, spirits and beers, you’ll have plenty to take home in your suitcases.

Final moments before setting off again

Enjoy one last moment on the beach, on the bike paths or in your favorite Retais village, before packing your bags and heading home.

All that’s left for you to do is share your memories and photographs with your loved ones and, above all, start thinking about your next stay… On the Ile de Ré, of course!