Connected to La Rochelle and the Charente-Maritime region by a slim, 3km-long road bridge, Île de Ré is a beautiful island in the Bay of Biscay. Known for its whitewashed villages, gorgeous beaches and ancient ramparts with panoramic sea views, this a terrific holiday destination. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with friends and family, accommodation options are wide-ranging. Peruse our list of the best places to stay on Île de Ré for restored villas, boutique hotels and beachfront gems.

Most of the action is clustered around the fishing port of Saint Martin. Pop into little boutiques, galleries, bars and restaurants, or clamber up the narrow steps of the Eglise Saint Martin’s tower for magical views of the town and the ocean. Fill your bags with local produce, textiles and jewellery at the Marché Médieval, or venture further afield for bicycle rides and hikes. The 12th century Abbaye des Châteliers ruins are well worth visiting, too.

Lazy beach or boat days are an island highlight. Soak up the sunshine, stroll along the sand or hone your sailing skills. The best places to stay on Île de Ré fill up fast during the summer months; book your stay well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Île de Ré

For a Charming B&B

• Le Senechal offers a laid-back haven in tranquil Ars-en-Ré. There's a small plunge pool, pretty courtyards for sitting out, and elegant, well-priced rooms. A lovely B&B for couples, friends or families, with lots of classic French charm.
• Le Corps de Garde is a characterful B&B offering splendid views from the edge of Saint-Martin-de-Ré marina. The five spacious rooms ooze rustic charm, there are rejuvenating massages available, and the town's foodie and cultural attractions are right on your doorstep.
• La Maison Douce enjoys a quiet location, tucked away in a narrow street in Saint Martin. Quintessentially French country-style rooms boast private balconies and roll-top baths, and buffet breakfasts are devoured amidst the roses in the coutryard garden. Start your evening with cocktails at the onsite bar before heading out to eat in town.

For Families

• Le Clos St Martin has 33 beautiful bedrooms, two swimming pools — one specificially for families — and a rejuvenating spa. Unwind in absoltue bliss after days of hiking, cycling, fishing and adventuring with the whole family.
• Les Bois Flottais is a fun, contemporary hotel just minutes from the beach. Boasting chic, well-designed bedrooms — some with space for families — as well as two swimming pools, it's a brilliant spot for a holiday with the kids. There's also a great spa.
• La Baronnie is a magnificent 18th-century manor house with a beautiful garden. The 22 elegant rooms and suites offer flexible options for families, who will also appreciate the lounge, spa, swimming pool and bar. Full of character and set in the heart of Saint Martin.

For Romantic Luxury

• Le Richelieu is a sophisticated, 40-room hotel with spectacular ocean views and bright, elegant rooms — most featuring a private terrace. Boasting an inviting pool, a thalassotherapy spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant, this is a top spot for foodies and romantics.
• Villa Clarisse is a pretty manor house in Saint Martin, with nine nautically inspired rooms, a swimming pool and small spa. The intimate, laid-back feel makes this a luxurious couples' favourite.
• Hôtel de Toiras is situated in the port of Saint Martin, and offers fantastic ocean views from most of its 20 superb rooms. There’s also a heated outdoor pool, an in-room treatment menu and a fabulous fine dining restaurant. For heritage-minded couples.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

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

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Ile de Re?

• Fly to La Rochelle Airport, and travel into the city centre by car or bus. Alternatively, hop aboard a high-speed train from Paris; you'll be in La Rochelle in under 4 hours. There are regular buses from La Rochelle to Île de Ré.
• The Charente-Maritime area is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer for the warmest weather (around 25°C) and most idyllic beach days — though this is the busiest time of year. For a more tranquil experience, avoid the school holidays and travel in the late spring or early autumn.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in La Rochelle.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Charente-Maritime.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Ile de Re