Île de Ré

#2155 among destinations in France

Island

Gallery (7)

Map

Gallery

Photo details 1. Wikipedia / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Zassenhaus / URL • 2. Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.5 / Pep.per at French Wikipedia / URL • 3. Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / World Imaging / URL • 4. Wikimedia Commons / Public domain / Ile-de-re / URL • 5. Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / Ile-de-re / URL • 6. Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / World Imaging / URL • 7. Wikimedia Commons / CC-BY-SA-3.0 / Ile-de-re / URL

Facts and practical information

Located off the west coast of France, Île de Ré is a picturesque island in the New Aquitaine region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, charming villages, and rich history. With its sandy beaches, vibrant markets, and iconic white-washed buildings, this island is a popular destination for travelers seeking a relaxed and idyllic getaway.

One of the most striking features of Île de Ré is its stunning coastline, which stretches for over 100 kilometers and is dotted with pristine beaches that are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The island's diverse landscape also includes salt marshes, dunes, and pine forests, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The island is home to several charming villages, each with its own unique character and attractions. The village of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, with its picturesque harbor and historic fortifications, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history buffs. Meanwhile, the village of Ars-en-Ré is known for its iconic black and white striped church tower and vibrant market, where visitors can sample fresh seafood and local produce.

For those interested in history and culture, Île de Ré offers a wealth of fascinating sites and landmarks to explore. The island is dotted with ancient lighthouses, traditional windmills, and historic fortresses, providing insight into its maritime heritage and strategic importance throughout the centuries.

In addition to its natural beauty and cultural attractions, Île de Ré is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, which is centered around fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and fine wines. Visitors can indulge in a culinary journey through the island's many restaurants, cafes, and markets, savoring regional specialties such as oysters, salt-marsh lamb, and artisanal cheeses.

Alternative names: Area: 32.94 mi²Maximum elevation: 66 ftCoordinates: 46°13'11"N, 1°28'33"W

Location

New AquitaineFrance

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Best Time To Visit Île de Ré

Learn when is the best time to travel to Île de Ré weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in May and June.

Average temperatures in °F

JFMAMJJASOND

The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in July and August. Most of it rains in January, October, November and December.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Day trips

Île de Ré – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Saint Catherine Church of Loix, Ernest Cognacq Museum, Saint Stephen's Church, St. Martin's Church.

1.8 miE
Church
Saint Catherine Church of Loix, Loix
47 min walk • The Church of Saint Catherine is an parish church located in Loix, in the department of Charente-Maritime, the region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and the diocese of La Rochelle and Saintes.
5.4 miE
Specialty museum, Museum, Vernacular architecture
Ernest Cognacq Museum, Saint-Martin-de-Ré
138 min walk • The Ernest Cognacq Museum is a French regional history museum, located in the city of Saint Martin de Ré, Île de Ré, France. The museum is housed in the "Hotel de Clerjotte", built in 1470-1480 by Louis Clergeat, taxman for Charles de France, Duke of Guyenne, and master of Île de Ré.
2.1 miSW
Church
Saint Stephen's Church, Ars-en-Ré
53 min walk • Saint-Étienne Church is a Catholic church located in Ars-en-Ré, on the island of Ré, in the French department of Charente-Maritime, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.
5.3 miE
Church
St. Martin's Church, Saint-Martin-de-Ré
134 min walk • The Saint-Martin church of Saint-Martin-de-Ré still stands with its gothic ruins in the heart of the city. Ravaged several times by conflicts, it was finally rebuilt more modestly in the 17th and 18th centuries, reusing what was left of the Gothic...
3.1 miW
Locality
Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
80 min walk • One of the main attractions in Saint-Clément-des-Baleines is the iconic Phare des Baleines, a historic lighthouse that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and admire the panoramic vistas of the...
5 miSE
Locality
Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré
129 min walk • The village itself is a delightful mix of narrow lanes, whitewashed buildings, and lively markets, offering visitors a taste of authentic French culture. A visit to the local market is a must, where visitors can sample fresh seafood, local produce, and delicious...
2.1 miSW
Memorial
War Memorial, Ars-en-Ré
54 min walk • Monuments aux Morts are French war memorials established to commemorate the losses of World War I.
3 miSE
Locality
La Couarde-sur-Mer
77 min walk • One of the main attractions in La Couarde-sur-Mer is its beautiful beaches. Visitors can spend their days sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the shore and taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are also popular for water sports...

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time to visit Île de Ré?

July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in May and June. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.