Is September a good month to visit the Île de Ré?

Yes. The temperatures remain pleasant, the scenery is magnificent and it’s less crowded than in the height of summer.

What is there to do during Heritage Days on the Île de Ré?

Visitors can explore historic sites, take part in guided tours, attend talks and visit certain sites that are open to the public on an exceptional basis. See the Heritage Days programme

Can you still enjoy the beaches in September?

Yes, the beaches are still very pleasant in the off-season and you can still go for a swim or simply enjoy the coastline in a quieter atmosphere.

Is it possible to go cycling in September?

It’s actually one of the best times of the year. The temperatures are milder and the cycle paths are less crowded.

How many days should you allow to explore the Île de Ré in September?

A weekend is enough to take in the main villages and events, but a stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal for exploring the whole island.

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Surfeur Marche Sur Plage Couche Soleil Ile De Re Olivier Tourillon
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Olivier Tourillon

September on the Île de Ré: festivals, heritage and unmissable events

Summer isn’t over yet

As summer draws gently to a close, the Île de Ré reveals a different side to itself. The beaches return to their peaceful self, the light softens and the villages continue to buzz with a host of events. With cultural events, heritage tours, local festivals and outdoor activities, September on the Île de Ré is the perfect time to make the most of the destination whilst discovering its authentic character.

Why visit the Île de Ré in September?

September is often considered one of the best times to explore the Île de Ré. Temperatures remain pleasant, the Indian summer is setting in and the countryside still retains its summer colours.
It’s also a time when local life really comes into its own. Residents, local organisations, producers and cultural organisations put on a wide range of events that allow you to discover Île de Ré in a different light, getting up close to its heritage, traditions and natural environment.

Major events in September

The Fleur de Sel Festival

Sunday 6 September

A must-see event in September, the Fleur de Sel Festival brings the village of Les Portes-en-Ré to life with an eclectic programme.
Tours, games, tastings, a market, talks and a “selathlon” punctuate the day, which showcases the traditional expertise of the salt workers.

European Heritage Days

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September

Every year in September, European Heritage Days offer a unique opportunity to discover the treasures of the Île de Ré in a different light. Churches, fortifications, iconic sites, places usually closed to the public and even natural areas reveal their secrets through free tours, talks and activities for all ages.

A unique opportunity to explore the history of the villages on the Île de Ré, to gain a better understanding of their identity and to take a fresh look at a heritage shaped by the ocean, the marshes and the people.

Heritage Days on the Île de Ré

The sporting highlights of the new term

Ré Swim Run

Saturday 12 September

Set amongst the beaches, coastal paths and iconic landscapes of the Île de Ré, the Ré Swim Run offers a unique sporting challenge combining running and swimming. Participants tackle a series of land and water sections set against the backdrop of an exceptional natural environment. Whether you’re here to compete, push your limits or simply enjoy a unique experience, this event attracts numerous athletes and lovers of the great outdoors every year.

The Toyota Open International on the Île de Ré

Tuesday 22nd to Saturday 26th September

La Couarde-sur-Mer hosts a sporting event that has become a must-see on the Île de Ré: the Toyota Open International on the Île de Ré. Since 2005, this wheelchair tennis tournament has brought together some of the world’s best players and treated the public to moments of sport of remarkable intensity. On the courts of the Tennis Club des Pertuis, passion, performance and sportsmanship come together to showcase a spectacular and inspiring sport. A wonderful opportunity to get caught up in the excitement of an international competition in the heart of the Île de Ré

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Toyota open - ile de re international wheelchair tennis tournament

Experience the Île de Ré in a different way

Cycling through vineyards, marshes and by the sea

September is undoubtedly one of the best times of year to explore the island by bike.

The milder temperatures make for particularly pleasant rides and allow you to fully enjoy the Île de Ré landscape: salt marshes, nature reserve, ports and unspoilt beaches.

Every kilometre holds its own share of discoveries.

The joys of the ocean continue

Swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, sailing or simply a stroll along the beach: September still offers the chance to make the most of the coastline.

The sunsets become even more spectacular, inviting you to savour precious moments gazing out over the ocean.

All the events in September

Concerts, exhibitions, flea markets, guided tours, sporting events, markets, shows and family-friendly events: September’s calendar is packed with ideas for days out to suit everyone.

View the full calendar of events

Good to know

To make the most of your stay on the Île de Ré, get in touch with the Tourist Office!
Once you’re here, do pop into one of our 10 visitor centres to book a guided tour, a boat trip or a visit to a local business.

As well as receiving a very warm welcome, you can pick up your 100% personalised holiday guidebook!

See you soon on the Île de Ré.

FAQ – September on the Île de Ré