Campsite on Île-de-Ré

For a family day with your feet in the water, head for the beaches of Bois-Plage, which offer supervised swimming during the season. To the west of Île de Ré, in the municipality of Saint-Clément-les-Baleines, the Conche des Baleines beach stretches for nearly 3 km in a cove. Its heavenly setting makes it a very popular place for swimming and relaxing. In Sainte-Marie de Ré, the beaches of Montamer and La Salée are ideal for a dip at high tide. In Rivedoux, on the south coast facing La Rochelle and Île d'Aix, swimmers share the space with windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts. If you prefer surfing, you should go to Les Grenettes beach in Sainte-Marie de Ré. Do you want to try shoreline fishing? At low tide, head for the Notre-Dame beach in Sainte-Marie de Ré and the beaches of l’Arnérault in La Flotte-en-Ré or La Cible in Saint-Martin-de-Ré.

In 2012, Île de Ré was awarded the "Town of Art and History" label, which recognizes territories that promote heritage awareness among residents and tourists. The fish locks of Île de Ré are an integral part of its historical heritage. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries in Sainte-Marie de Ré, Saint-Clément des Baleines, Les Portes en Ré, Ars, and Loix, they become formidable fish traps with the help of the tides. During a walk in Ars-en-Ré, you will inevitably spot its majestic, pointed white bell tower with a black spire. In the town of La Flotte, stop to discover the ruins of the Abbaye des Châteliers. Classified as a Historical Monument, the site marks the arrival of the Cistercian monks and the beginning of wine and salt production on the island. For a breathtaking panoramic view of Île de Ré and the surrounding straits, climb to the top of the Phare des Baleines lighthouse, which stands at 57 meters in Saint-Clément-les-Baleines. The fortifications of Saint-Martin-en-Ré, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a must-see during your vacation on Île de Ré. Built by Vauban during the reign of Louis XIV, they once served as shelter in case of an enemy landing.

Salt marshes are numerous on Île de Ré, and the salt-makers still carry on ancestral techniques today. They increase or decrease the water flow between the basins carved out of natural clay. From March to the end of November, you can visit the Ecomuseum of the Salt Marsh to learn more about the history of salt production. You have the opportunity to visit a real working salt marsh with a guide and learn about the salt-maker's craft. For centuries, successive generations on Île de Ré have worked to preserve traditions and know-how. Salt harvesting, oyster farming, vine cultivation, and market gardening are the main activities on the island. Over the centuries, techniques have evolved with respect for the environment and have shaped the landscape to create a land rich in culture.

Head to Les Portes-en-Ré to observe the flora and fauna of the Lilleau des Niges National Nature Reserve. In a stunning landscape of dunes, salt marshes, and forests, many migratory birds find refuge there. The LPO, which manages the site, organizes themed outings to observe the environment and animals with a passionate guide.

Île de Ré is a particularly suitable destination for hiking, whether on foot or by bike. Numerous trails cross the island and invite you to admire the beauty and diversity of the landscapes, from charming villages to beaches, woods, and salt marshes. Amateur or experienced riders can also take part in equestrian excursions: a gallop on the beach awakens a feeling of freedom like no other!