Full of charm and rich in a magnificent natural heritage and unique culture, the Ile de Ré is a dream destination for any itinerant traveler. If you’ve decided to travel around the Ile de Ré in a motorhome during your vacation to enjoy the fresh sea breeze, here are the must-see places to discover right away.
Excursions in the heart of the Ile de Ré landscapes
Bring your bikes: over 100 km of cycle paths await you to enjoy the superb environment of the Retais. There are a number of bike tours of varying distances, through the forest or to La Couarde-sur-Mer, for example.
A stop at the Ile de Ré markets
A stopover at the Ile de Ré markets in the various villages is a must, to discover local producers and taste the incomparably flavorful AOP primeur potatoes from Ile de Ré. Oyster farmers, wine producers and paludiers will show you their traditional know-how.
Swimming break at the beach
The Ile de Ré abounds with beaches and coves to suit all tastes, from the family-friendly Plage des Enfants at Les Portes-en-Ré, to the 6 km beach at Bois-Plage-en-Ré and Trousse-Chemise. During your visit to the Ile de Ré by motorhome, you can peacefully enjoy the ebb and flow of the tides, go fishing or try your hand at various water sports such as surfing or paddleboarding.
Sightseeing on the Ile de Ré
- The Abbaye des Châteliers, dating back to medieval times, was a key element in the island’s development, with the Cistercian monks’ wine and salt-making activities. The remains of the building exude a special atmosphere, with the pretty flowers that bloom in fine weather and the cliffs that drop away into the sea.
- A visit to the Phare des Baleines lighthouse is not to be missed. Climb the 257 steps to the top of the lighthouse and admire the exceptional view. The lighthouse museum reveals the secrets of lighthouse construction.
- The Lilleau des Niges nature reserve in Les Portes-en-Ré is home to a host of different bird species. You can visit observatories free of charge, or take a guided tour with your children.
Villages to discover
There are 10 communes on the Ile de Ré to explore on your motorhome trip. Stop off at the most beautiful villages, such as Ars-en-Réclassé“Plus Beau Village de France”, with its 15th-century Saint-Etienne church in contrasting black and white, or its picturesque streets.
You can also stop off at Saint-Martin-en-Ré, the island’s largest town, to stroll along its marina, discover its ramparts, its oyster huts and enjoy the beautiful colors of the hollyhocks as you stroll along its narrow streets. Climb to the village’s observatory bell tower for an exceptional panorama!
Travelling to the Ile de Ré in a motorhome: practicalities
- Charges for crossing the bridge: if you’re traveling by motorhome, you’ll have to pay an ecotax to cross the bridge to the Ile de Ré, including the return journey (€16 between June 20 and September 11 and €8 the rest of the year).
- Parking on the island of Ré: you can legally park day and night in traditional parking lots, as long as you don’t show any external signs of bivouac. There are several motorhome parking areas on the Ile de Ré, including at Les Portes-en-Ré near La Patache, at Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré and at Saint-Clément-des-Baleines. And if you’re looking for a place to camp, head for La Tour des Prises campsite!
