A romantic getaway on Ile de Ré

Île de Ré’s gentle sea air invites those in love to take time to reconnect. Walks and cycle rides on the island are relaxing and romantic, unique and uplifting.

With cycle paths criss-crossing the whole island, cycling is a must. Choose one of the bike hire companies, and immerse yourself in Île de Ré’s landscapes. The striking contrast in landscapes is worthy of the most beautiful romances, with salt marshes, vineyard trails, and the ocean in the background.

The magic continues as you explore the narrow streets of the island’s ten villages, a vision of colours and fragrances, with flowers and picturesque shutters decorating the façades of whitewashed houses.

Coastal walks are equally seductive, as are the island’s forests and woods, ideal for connecting with nature and enjoying the peace and quiet.

The seafront never fails to charm, such as the route from Saint-Martin-de-Ré to La Flotte, and on to Fort la Prée.

Whether you choose the wilder beaches in the north, such as those at Les Portes-en-Ré, or the wide expanses of beach on the south side of the island, between Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré and La Couarde-sur-Mer, allow yourself to be swept away by the gentle sound of the waves.

At the end of the day, relax outside with an apéritif, a blanket, a good local wine and some delicious food, either on the soft sand or sitting on a restaurant terrace alongside one of the harbours, marvelling at the colours of the sunset.

The ideal holiday for two on Île de Ré also includes a boat trip. Choose from several options; the catamaran trip, in particular, creates a unique romantic moment. The view of the island’s landscapes from the open sea is splendid. At sea, time seems to stand still…

As the magic of a getaway in nature works its spell, it is time to treat yourselves to special moments together.

Why not start with some shopping? There are boutiques in every village, notably in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, with elegant, quality products: handmade jewellery, delicate ceramics, linen garments, handcrafted decorative objects, etc.

Do you enjoy going to local markets? Each village has its own market, open every day from April to October. Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré has the largest market and La Flotte has a medieval-inspired market. All ten markets are unique and well worth a visit.

From fashion and accessories to skincare and beauty products such as delicately scented handmade soaps, there is no shortage of products to choose from. Food and drink are equally tempting: fresh seafood, wine, salt, honey, and more. There is plenty to choose from for an impromptu gourmet picnic!

For lunch or dinner, it is easy to be tempted by one of the oyster huts along the seafront or by one of the many restaurants in the heart of the villages or around the harbours.

Remember to taste the island’s delicious ice cream!

For complete relaxation on Île de Ré, treat yourselves to a moment of pampering. The island is home to several spas offering a variety of treatments to re-energise you: beauty treatments, sauna, steam room, massages, etc.

If you would like to enjoy the benefits of seawater-based treatments, there is also a wide selection of seawater spas (thalassotherapy) to choose from.

The range of treatments and natural setting promise a unique wellness experience. There is nothing quite like being pampered together.