A little island where the locals know how to relax
A little island off the west coast of France, near the city of La Rochelle, Ile de Re is one of the most well-loved vacation destinations for French folk in the know. Once the sight of battles between the French and English, then a holding area for convicts being transported to prison colonies, Ile de Re has long abandoned its violent past in favor of quaint villages, sandy beaches, and historic ports. Book an Ile de Re vacation rental and spend your holiday among the savviest of French travelers.
An island best seen from high in the sky
The island is as pretty as a postcard, and it knows how to show itself off. Cruise your bike from the doorstep of your Ile de Re vacation rental to Phare des Baleines, a lighthouse on the northwest end of the island that features a 257-step staircase up to a panoramic view of the coast. Then head to the Eglise St. Martin for panorama #2. Hike a mere 117 steps this time to the Clocher Observatoire, or bell tower. Now that you've seen the island from every angle, head to the Musee Ernest Cognacq to take in some local history.
Get used to cycling with a little sand in your shoes
You can divide your day on Ile de Re into 2 categories: beaching and biking. The beaches on the southern end of the island are the most popular and in summer, they can be chock full of families. If you prefer something more secluded, try the sandy shores on the west side. Plage de Gros Jonc is great for surfers and more adventurous swimmers. The island is small enough that most visitors get around on 2 wheels. Rent a bike or bring your own, and you'll have all you need for a tour of outdoor markets and antique shops.
Enjoy the sun in summer and make new Parisian friends
Ile de Re's warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters make it worthy of a visit no matter the time of year. If you can handle high temps in the 90s (you can. You'll be at the beach, after all.) and don't mind the crowds of vacationers from Paris, book your Ile de Re vacation rental in summer. If you'd rather score a deal and don't mind a little rain and fog, visit in spring, fall, or winter. Winter temps in the 40s and 50s are quite bearable if you won't be swimming.
Saddle up and canter through beaches, fields, and forests
For a sampling of what natural wonders Ile de Re has to offer, consider ditching your bike in favor of a friendly horse. Vacationers on the island often take in the sights from the saddle, and your steed can help you explore fields of wild grass, forests of pine and chene vert (an evergreen oak), and sun-drenched beaches. Kids and nature lovers can also check out the nature reserve at Lilleau des Niges on the island's northwestern end. Its salt pans and marshes are nesting grounds for thousands of coastal birds.
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