The pleasure of walking on Île de Ré

Walking in unspoilt nature

Where the land meets the sea

On foot, discover the island’s natural environment in a whole new light: the coastline and dunes of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, the Lizay national forest and surrounding dunes, and the treasures of the Trousse Chemise wood in Portes-en-Ré, as well as the UNESCO-listed Vauban fortified town in Saint-Martin-de-Ré, home to a multitude of wildflowers and colourful butterflies.

Take a magnifying glass or a pair of binoculars and explore the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve in Portes-en-Ré or the La Lasse site in Loix to see birds, particularly in the autumn and winter, from the Great Spotted Woodpecker to the Northern Waxwing, the Snowy Owl, the Elegant Tern and the Black-winged Stilt.

Awaken your curiosity and sense of freedom as you explore the many footpaths on Île de Ré. Go on sporting hikes, family walks or guided nature outings led by a specialist, whether an eco-volunteer from the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO), an Île de Ré eco-guard or a naturalist. Here on the island, lovers of hiking, walking and nature will tell you that Île de Ré is a small paradise for those who know how to get off the beaten track!

Unusual walking trails

You can also choose from a range of original, unusual and/or accessible walking trails, such as one on the ‘History of wells in Portes-en-Ré’ (L’histoire des puits des Portes-en-Ré), one that combines vineyards and coastal paths in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré (Entre les vignes et l’océan)… There is even a trail designed for adults who have children in pushchairs or on scooters in Rivedoux-Plage (Poussettes et trottinettes à Rivedoux-Plage).

Visit one of our ten tourist offices for other ideas for outings. Ask us about the guided tours organised by our enthusiastic guides, so that Île de Ré holds no secrets for you (or almost none…) !

The magic of walking

Île de Ré embodies the perfect harmony between walking and nature. To visit the island is to immerse yourself in a peaceful world. Discover a relaxed atmosphere and a commitment to gentle, sustainable ways of getting around. The walking trails invite you to slow down, reconnect with the natural environment and discover the hidden treasures of this island paradise. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, walking on Île de Ré promises an unforgettable experience, where every step brings a new opportunity to marvel at this destination.

Step by step into the heart of paradise

For lovers of nature and authentic experiences, the island is a true paradise for the senses, best explored on foot. Walk along the island’s unspoilt footpaths, where every sound and scent reveals a new facet of its natural beauty, with the sound of the waves never far beyond the dunes.

To explore Île de Ré on foot is also to treat yourself to an authentic, immersive experience, where every step reveals a hidden treasure and a story to tell. If you’re a hiking enthusiast or simply in search of peace and quiet, the island’s trails invite you to slow down, reconnect with nature and soak up the magic of this unspoilt place. So bring your walking shoes, prepare your rucksack and set off to discover Île de Ré, at your own pace.