Ile de Ré

Known as the 'White Island', the Ile de Ré is accessible directly from La Rochelle by a bridge. It is 30 kilometres long and five kilometres wide, and can be easily explored by bicycle thanks to a plethora (100 kilometres) of cycle tracks leading all over the island. Explore Ile de Ré's ten enchanting villages where narrow lanes are fringed with whitewashed houses. Taste island produce at the daily food market in La Flotte. Browse the craft shops and galleries of Saint-Martin-de-Re with its Vauban citadel, star-shaped ramparts and bustling harbour. For a seagull's eye view, climb the bell tower in Saint-Martin or head to the Phare des Baleines lighthouse. The south end of the island is home to relaxing beaches, while the north boasts ports that have always contributed to the economic life of the island.