Getting around Île de Ré without a car is entirely possible—and often more enjoyable. From our campsite on Île de Ré, in La Couarde-sur-Mer, you can easily reach the beaches, markets, and neighboring villages thanks to the regional bus network, free shuttles, and 110 km of bike paths. This guide provides an overview of the routes, fares, and tips for getting around by public transportation on Île de Ré, whether you’re arriving from La Rochelle or want to explore the area once you’re there.
Key points to remember
- Network: the Nouvelle-Aquitaine regional buses (operated by OCECARS), which replaced the old numbering system.
- Main Line: Line 150 connects the La Rochelle SNCF train station to the island’s 10 villages year-round.
- Summer service enhancements: Routes 151 and 152 will be added in July and August.
- Ticket price: €2.50 per ticket (€0.40 at the solidarity rate), regardless of distance.
- Free shuttles: The RespiRé shuttles serve the villages and the bridge from April through fall.
The Île de Ré Bus Network
Public transportation on the island is provided by the Nouvelle-Aquitaine regional bus system. Line 150 is the backbone of the network: it departs from the La Rochelle train station, crosses the bridge, and serves all the towns, from Rivedoux-Plage to Les Portes-en-Ré. During peak season, two additional routes are added to accommodate the influx of visitors. Here are the details of the main routes.
| Line / Route | Serves | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Line 150 (La Rochelle & Île de Ré) | La Rochelle SNCF train station, airport, Belvédère, then the island’s 10 villages | Runs year-round, with about one bus per hour |
| Lines 151 & 152 | Same routes as Line 150, as additional service | Only in July and August |
| RespiRé Shuttles (villages) | Routes between villages, including Saint-Martin and La Couarde-sur-Mer | Free, from April through the end of summer |
| RespiRé Shuttle (bridge) | Crossing the bridge for pedestrians and cyclists | Free, from April through mid-October |
As for prices, a single-ride ticket costs €2.50 (€0.40 at the solidarity rate), regardless of the number of stops. For longer stays, Île de Ré passes are available, such as €13.80 per week and €140 per year for the La Rochelle–Île de Ré route. Tickets can be purchased directly on board from the driver or in advance via the Modalis app. Children under 4 travel for free. (Source: transports.nouvelle-aquitaine.fr.)
In terms of travel time, allow about 30 minutes to reach Rivedoux-Plage, the first town after the bridge, and a little over an hour to reach Les Portes-en-Ré, at the tip of the island. La Couarde-sur-Mer, in the center, is halfway along the route: a convenient spot from which to explore in either direction without having to make a long drive.
From La Rochelle (train station, airport) to the island
If you’re arriving by train or plane, the connection is easy. Bus line 150 has three key stops on the mainland: the bus station, right next to the train station; La Rochelle-Île de Ré Airport; and Belvédère, the parking lot located just before the bridge. From the train station, simply board the bus that takes you directly to the island, with no transfers.
To reach a stop on Line 150 from downtown La Rochelle, you can use the Yélo urban transit system and its Illico bus lines, which connect to Place de Verdun, among other destinations. A route-planning app like Modalis helps you combine city buses and regional buses and track schedules in real time. A helpful tip during rush hour: allow extra time, as traffic crossing the bridge can slow down in the summer.
Our Transportation Options
The bus isn’t the only option—far from it. On such a flat island, biking remains the most practical and enjoyable way to get around on a daily basis. You can also take advantage of the 110 km of bike paths that crisscross Île de Ré, on dedicated lanes away from cars. Good news for cyclists: Bus Route 150 allows bikes on board (free CarVélo service, with bookings required by 5 p.m. the day before ), as does the bridge shuttle.
Once you’ve settled into a village, the free RespiRé local shuttles let you get to the beach, the market, or the next village without having to drive. An on-demand transportation service—which is also free—rounds out the system for running errands or getting to appointments. That means you can spend your entire stay without ever having to look for a parking spot.
Leaving your car at the campsite and getting around by bike, bus, and free shuttle is often the best way to get into the island’s rhythm.
Pierre Schmitz
Located in the center of the island, in La Couarde-sur-Mer, our family-friendly campsite has bike paths right outside your accommodations and offers on-site bike rentals. This way, you can explore the beaches and villages without needing a car, from April through the end of September. Book your stay and enjoy exploring the island at your own pace.
