Ile de Re Vacation Rentals
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Luxury rentals
Tips on renting in Ile de Re
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Discover the charm of Ile de Ré in Charente-Maritime, France, perfect for family adventures. Begin at Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a UNESCO-listed village with the impressive Vauban Fortifications and the bustling Port de Saint-Martin lined with cafes like La Martinière, famous for its artisanal ice cream. Rent bikes from Cycland to explore the island’s scenic cycle paths, passing through salt marshes and vineyards. Don’t miss the Phare des Baleines lighthouse, where you can climb to panoramic views and visit the adjacent museum. Families will love the Réserve Naturelle Lilleau des Niges for birdwatching and guided nature walks. Head to La Flotte’s medieval market for local delicacies and crafts. Spend a relaxing afternoon at Plage de la Conche des Baleines, ideal for swimming and sandcastle building. For a memorable experience, join a boat tour with Inter-Îles Cruises to spot dolphins or visit the nearby Île d’Aix.
Nearby cities
La Tranche sur Mer
Bring your family to La Tranche sur Mer in Vendée—enjoy sandy beaches, safe swimming, bike rides, and seaside picnics under the sun, perfect for all ages.
Ile d’Oléron
Discover Ile d'Oléron in Charente-Maritime—where your family can bike seaside trails, explore sandy beaches, and savor fresh air under sunny French skies.
Moutiers les Mauxfaits
Discover Moutiers les Mauxfaits in Vendée—where your family can picnic by sunlit lakes, cycle leafy paths, and share laughter in peaceful village squares.
Talmont Saint Hilaire
Discover Talmont Saint Hilaire in Vendée—where your family can bike along green trails, picnic by sparkling lakes, and explore sandy beaches together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Ile de Re has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Ile de Ré, France, is a paradise for families who love the outdoors, offering sun-drenched beaches along the Atlantic, picturesque cycling paths winding through salt marshes, and charming whitewashed villages like Saint-Martin-de-Ré. Children delight in exploring the Phare des Baleines lighthouse, while parents savor fresh oysters in waterfront cafés. The island’s gentle tides create perfect conditions for safe swimming and sailing, making every day an adventure amid the island’s natural beauty and relaxed, elegant atmosphere.
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Exploring Ile de Ré with your family is a breeze thanks to the Réseau Interurbain de Charente-Maritime, which offers convenient travel cards and family passes for the island’s buses. These passes allow unlimited travel across key spots like Saint-Martin-de-Ré with its historic Vauban fortifications, the sandy beaches of La Couarde-sur-Mer, and the charming markets of Ars-en-Ré. Purchasing a multi-day card saves money and simplifies hopping between picturesque villages and scenic cycling routes.
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On Ile de Ré, many rental properties and holiday apartments are designed with longer stays in mind, so you’ll often find well-equipped kitchens and laundry facilities available. Especially in charming villages like Saint-Martin-de-Ré or La Flotte, accommodations cater to families and extended visits, offering amenities such as washing machines and modern kitchens. This setup allows visitors to enjoy the island’s local markets and cook with fresh produce, making for a comfortable and immersive stay.
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Spend your week on Ile de Ré cycling through charming villages like Saint-Martin-de-Ré with its UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications, exploring the salt marshes near Loix, and relaxing on the sandy beaches of Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré. Sample fresh oysters in Ars-en-Ré, visit the iconic Phare des Baleines lighthouse, and take a day trip to La Rochelle to see its historic port and aquarium. Enjoy the island’s vibrant markets and savor local delicacies such as potato dishes and pineau des Charentes.
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For a relaxing beach day near Ile de Ré, head to Plage de la Conche des Baleines, a stunning stretch of fine sand bordered by dunes and pine forests on the island’s western tip. This peaceful spot is perfect for sunbathing, with clear Atlantic waters and plenty of space to unwind. After soaking up the sun, you can stroll to the iconic Phare des Baleines lighthouse for panoramic views or enjoy fresh seafood at a nearby café.
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While Île de Ré is known for its beautiful beaches and charming villages, it is a flat island on the Atlantic coast of France and does not have any mountains suitable for alpine skiing. For those seeking alpine skiing near the region, the most popular destination is the Pyrenees, particularly the resort of Saint-Lary-Soulan. This vibrant ski resort offers excellent slopes, modern facilities, and breathtaking views, making it a favorite for winter sports enthusiasts in southwestern France.
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A reasonable overall budget for a 3-day stay in Ile de Ré for two adults ranges from 500 to 900 euros, depending on your travel style. This estimate covers a charming hotel in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, daily bike rentals to explore the island’s scenic salt marshes and picturesque villages, fresh seafood meals at harborfront restaurants, and visits to landmarks like the Phare des Baleines lighthouse and the historic Vauban fortifications. Additional costs may include ferry tickets and local market shopping.
