With its 10 villages spread across 85 km², the Île de Ré charms visitors with its whitewashed alleyways, lively harbors, and year-round sunshine.
Whether on foot or by bike, here are the most beautiful villages you shouldn’t miss during your getaway.
Recognized as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" (*Plus Beaux Villages de France*), La Flotte is among the oldest villages on the island.
Explore its bustling harbor along the coastal path, its shaded squares, and a market inspired by medieval architecture.
Stroll among the cafés and whitewashed houses before heading to the ruins of the Abbaye des Châteliers.
Also designated as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," Ars-en-Ré is famous for its black-and-white bell tower, which long served as a landmark for sailors. Even today, it continues to guide boats into the Fier d’Ars bay.
Amidst the salt marshes, you can admire small houses with green shutters, narrow lanes adorned with hollyhocks, and a picturesque marina.
The capital of the Île de Ré is encircled by 17th-century fortifications designed by Vauban a site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.
Wander through its cobblestone streets to catch a glimpse of the half-timbered *Maison de la Vinatière*, the citadel, and the bell tower that doubles as an observation point.
Nestled between salt marshes and the ocean, Loix cultivates tranquility and authenticity, featuring low-slung houses with colorful shutters, hiking trails, and an unspoiled beach.
The village is connected to the rest of the island by two cycling paths that lead to exceptional panoramic views.
At the western tip, Les Portes-en-Ré is home to sand dunes, a quintessential pine forest, and the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve a sanctuary for migratory birds.
Take the time to stroll along the famous Trousse-Chemise beach, a place held dear by Charles Aznavour.
Further along, Saint-Clément-des-Baleines stretches out at the foot of its lighthouse, surrounded by pristine beaches and coastal paths. This little slice of paradise is a must-visit for anyone who loves the sea.
To explore the island’s most beautiful villages, treat yourself to a stay at a 4-star hotel in the heart of the Île de Ré.
L’Élégance Suites Hôtel welcomes you to Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, a seaside village renowned for its expansive fine-sand beach and its market.
Located 400 meters from the beach, the property offers 8 chicly designed suites, each featuring a king-size bed, a chromotherapy whirlpool bathtub, and a private terrace.
After a day spent cycling, unwind in the heated outdoor swimming pool or the 120-square-meter spa.
Finally, why not book a table at the restaurant Plaisir which holds the "Maître Restaurateur" label to discover the flavors of the local region?
Whether on foot or by bike, here are the most beautiful villages you shouldn’t miss during your getaway.
La Flotte: A village of medieval charm
Recognized as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" (*Plus Beaux Villages de France*), La Flotte is among the oldest villages on the island.
Explore its bustling harbor along the coastal path, its shaded squares, and a market inspired by medieval architecture.
Stroll among the cafés and whitewashed houses before heading to the ruins of the Abbaye des Châteliers.
Ars-en-Ré: In the heart of the salt marshes
Also designated as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," Ars-en-Ré is famous for its black-and-white bell tower, which long served as a landmark for sailors. Even today, it continues to guide boats into the Fier d’Ars bay.
Amidst the salt marshes, you can admire small houses with green shutters, narrow lanes adorned with hollyhocks, and a picturesque marina.
Saint-Martin-de-Ré: A UNESCO-listed capital
The capital of the Île de Ré is encircled by 17th-century fortifications designed by Vauban a site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.
Wander through its cobblestone streets to catch a glimpse of the half-timbered *Maison de la Vinatière*, the citadel, and the bell tower that doubles as an observation point.
Loix: Between Salt Marshes and the Ocean
Nestled between salt marshes and the ocean, Loix cultivates tranquility and authenticity, featuring low-slung houses with colorful shutters, hiking trails, and an unspoiled beach.
The village is connected to the rest of the island by two cycling paths that lead to exceptional panoramic views.
Les Portes-en-Ré and Saint-Clément-des-Baleines: Prized for Their Tranquility
At the western tip, Les Portes-en-Ré is home to sand dunes, a quintessential pine forest, and the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve a sanctuary for migratory birds.
Take the time to stroll along the famous Trousse-Chemise beach, a place held dear by Charles Aznavour.
Further along, Saint-Clément-des-Baleines stretches out at the foot of its lighthouse, surrounded by pristine beaches and coastal paths. This little slice of paradise is a must-visit for anyone who loves the sea.
Stay in a 4-Star Hotel in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré
To explore the island’s most beautiful villages, treat yourself to a stay at a 4-star hotel in the heart of the Île de Ré.
L’Élégance Suites Hôtel welcomes you to Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, a seaside village renowned for its expansive fine-sand beach and its market.
Located 400 meters from the beach, the property offers 8 chicly designed suites, each featuring a king-size bed, a chromotherapy whirlpool bathtub, and a private terrace.
After a day spent cycling, unwind in the heated outdoor swimming pool or the 120-square-meter spa.
Finally, why not book a table at the restaurant Plaisir which holds the "Maître Restaurateur" label to discover the flavors of the local region?
