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IN BRIEF
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Ready to charm lovers of authentic vacations, the Île de Ré reveals all its charms in 2025 between golden beaches, white villages, and unmatched traditions. Suspended between sky and ocean, this pearl of the Atlantic promises a thousand discoveries, from the cobbled streets of Saint-Martin-de-Ré to the salt marshes traversed by donkeys in trousers. Here, every corner buzzes with newness and iodized flavors, making this unique piece of land one of the most sought-after summer experiences in France.
This summer of 2025, the Île de Ré promises to delight travelers seeking authenticity, nature, and discoveries. Just a few kilometers from La Rochelle, this Charente island boasts numerous advantages: varied landscapes, preserved heritage, vibrant traditions, and lively festivities. From its donkeys in trousers to its gourmet markets, not to mention its kilometers of bike paths, the island asserts itself as one of the most popular destinations in France. Here’s why the Île de Ré presents itself to you in its finest light for the summer of 2025.
Discovering the Île de Ré: a popular destination to explore in 2025 in France
An horizon shaped by salt and sea
Suspended between sky and ocean, the Île de Ré immediately enchants with its unique configuration. Linked to the mainland by an elegant three-kilometer bridge, it is the fourth largest French island. This piece of land, 30 kilometers long and sometimes less than 100 meters wide, unfolds about 100 kilometers of sandy coasts, wave-breaking dikes, and small steep cliffs. But the most striking image remains that of its salt marshes, where the horizon shimmers and where the famous donkeys in trousers could once be seen.
White villages, heritage, and fortifications
From Saint-Martin-de-Ré to Ars-en-Ré, ten typical villages punctuate the territory. The historical capital, Saint-Martin-de-Ré, owes its charm to its Vauban fortifications, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, which encircle the city and its cobbled streets. It’s impossible not to fall under the spell of the iconic bichromy: white houses, green shutters, and flowers overflowing from the small lanes. Further east, La Flotte enchants with its medieval port and the abbey of Châteliers. To the north, the village of Portes-en-Ré opens up to preserved nature that delights explorers.
For lovers of heritage, every turn of the street invites you on a journey through time. If this part of French history intrigues you, also discover suggestions for refreshing getaways in enchanting Cretan villages.
Untouched nature, dunes, and migratory birds
In the heart of the island, the Nature Reserve of Lilleau des Niges is a sanctuary for over 30,000 migratory birds each year. The salt marshes, watched over by a hundred salt workers, testify to a millenary know-how and a preserved ecosystem. Wide wild beaches in the south, forests of pines and green oaks, and banks of fine sand create a landscape where every walk turns into a contemplative adventure.
If this preserved nature fascinates you, embark on a journey to discover little-known islands with unmatched atmospheres as an addition to your Rétaise stay.
Rétai traditions and marine delicacies
Between sky and salt marshes, the Île de Ré proudly cultivates its traditions. The fish traps of Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, ingenious stone traps used during the tides, evoke ancestral fishing practices. At the markets, Ré AOP salt, new potatoes, claire oysters, and even local cognac make up an array of iodized and refined flavors. The market at Bois-Plage, the largest on the island, is a must-visit for gourmets.
Gourmets and the curious can extend the tasting experience by drawing inspiration from other gastronomic destinations, such as these Michelin-starred restaurants in the Basque Country.
A summer of 2025 marked by music and culture
This year, the 38th edition of the Festival Musique en Ré promises to be exceptional. From July 28 to August 8, thirteen concerts of classical music and opera – including several free and outdoors – will breathe new energy into all the villages of the island. Don’t miss: the spectacular Mozart evening conducted by Jean-Claude Casadesus and the outdoor comic opera, concluded with a dazzling fireworks display!
By bike or on the water: leisure and gentle mobility
The Île de Ré is never more beautiful than when seen from a bike path! With 138 kilometers of secure trails, crossing marshes, beaches, and pine forests, one can easily connect each village effortlessly. Cyclists will enjoy the flat terrain (the highest point reaches only 20 meters!). But there’s no forgetting maritime pleasures: sailing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and swimming reign under a sun that guarantees 2,300 hours of light each year.
For those dreaming of new nautical adventures and looking to vary their pleasures, why not explore other sunny archipelagos? The Canary Islands also hold true treasures to immortalize.
The essence of travel on the Île de Ré
On this island where tradition dances with the air of the times, the art of living is intertwined with the present. Donkeys in trousers continue to roam the marshes, the markets are filled with salty scents, and festivals punctuate the summer days. The Île de Ré, already popular and always authentic, offers each visitor a moment out of time, accessible by a simple bridge, yet resembling a world apart.
For new ideas and tailor-made stays, the Île de Ré is just the beginning: let yourself be inspired by this special offer to discover Corsica by motorcycle that will lead you to other sunny roads!
