Pretty Île d'Aix is a small Atlantic island just off the French coast, popular for summer day trips and lazy seaside weekends with lovely beaches and stacks of history. A green, crescent-shaped piece of land stretching 3 kilometres in length and just 600 metres in width, the island has a permanent population of around 200 residents. As it’s such a tiny island, accommodation options on Île d'Aix are limited, and they do fill up fast. Our pick of the best places to stay in Île d'Aix promises striking views and easy access to all that the island has to offer.

This is a charming car-free idyll, perfect for long, languorous lunches, jolly family days at the beach and strolls through tranquil streets. Nab a spot on the sand at one of the island’s five beaches — quiet Sables d’Or and the picturesque cove of Plage Baby are particular favourites — or head into town to amble amongst whitewashed houses with colourful painted shutters and trailing vines. Better yet, hire bikes to cycle along the island’s many paths, or hop aboard a horse-drawn carriage — a sure-fire family hit!

History buffs will adore the recently restored 11th century Saint Martin’s Church, whilst the Fort Leidot, designed by the famed French engineer Vauban and used as prison until WWI, offers intriguing guided tours. The museums are well worth visiting, too. The Musée Napoléon is set inside the house where the emperor stayed during his three-day visit in 1815, and the Musée Africain, founded by Baron Napoléon Gourgaud in 1933, showcases rare artefacts gathered during his three African hunting trips.

Whether you’re dreaming of cycling around the island as a family, sunbathing on the beach or tucking into fresh seafood at the harbour, Île d'Aix is a beautiful base for a long weekend or a blissful week away. The best places to stay in Île d'Aix are perfectly poised to make the most of what the island offers, from the historic town to the hidden beaches. This is a very popular destination, so book well in advance if travelling during the summer months. Alternatively, time your visit for the spring or autumn, when the sun is warm but the crowds have gone!

The best places to stay in Île d'Aix

For boutique chic

• Hotel Napoleon is a family-run boutique hotel with 18 modern rooms and a lively terrace bistro. Pick this place for great food, contemporary design and an excellent location near the harbour -- all for a very reasonable price.

For an apartment or villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to La Rochelle Airport and hop aboard a shuttle bus to the Pointe de la Fumée. Regular 20-minute ferries make the journey to Île d'Aix from there.
• The island is mostly car-free (bar necessary vehicles, such as fire engines). You can easily hire bikes to explore, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
• The best time to go is during the summer, when the temperature peaks at about 24 degrees celsius.

Still not sure?

• Browse our list of all the best places to stay in Ile de Ré.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see the best places to stay in Charente-Maritime.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Ile d'Aix