Things to do in winter on the Ile de Ré

The 15 unmissable winter activities on the Ile de Ré

Things to do in winter on the Ile de Ré

The Ile de Ré loses none of its charm in winter - in fact, you’ll get to see it in a different light... And you’ll love it!

 

Les Baleines Lighthouse

Les Baleines Lighthouse

Les Baleines Lighthouse is open all year round! You can admire its breathtaking panoramic view in any season.

The Vauban fortifications

The Vauban fortifications

Whatever the season, discover this stony star of the Ile de Ré coastline. Either on a guided visit led by the Saint-Martin-de-Ré Welcome Centre or on your own, come and admire the engineer Vauban’s masterpiece - nowadays the citadel of Vauban, considered the definitive island fort, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve

Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve

You can walk through the Nature Reserve or cycle along it. If you’re a nature-lover, then this is the place to be. Lilleau des Niges is a safe haven for thousands of migratory birds. The maze of trails, freely accessible all year round, will lead you into the heart of this remarkable biodiversity.

Atelier Quillet

Atelier Quillet

Listed as a Living Heritage Company, Atelier Quillet, in the village of Loix, is open all year round. It is one of France’s leading authorities on the conservation, restoration and binding of old documents and books. Guided visits will enable you to discover the various crafts that are practised in the Atelier.

La Savonnerie de Ré

La Savonnerie de Ré

Discover how soaps and cosmetics are made with donkey milk! This milk comes from Regis Léau Farm, in Saint-Martin-de-Ré.

Abeille de Ré

Abeille de Ré

Come and learn about the secret life of bees and the beekeeping profession. Beekeeper Aldo François will share his passion and ancestral know-how with you! Guided visits and events are organised all year round!

Abbaye des Châteliers

Abbaye des Châteliers

A listed historic monument, the Abbaye des Chateliers is an exceptional abbey that will prove a revelation whatever the season. The site is free to visit!

Bières de Ré

Bières de Ré

If you love beer, come inside where it’s warm and taste the artisan beers of the Ile de Ré - you can also find out how they’re produced.

Saint-Martin-de-Ré Belltower Observatory

Saint-Martin-de-Ré Belltower Observatory

Saint-Martin-de-Ré Church looks out over the heights of the village. If you climb the 117 steps, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view, one that is particularly spectacular at night. The heights of Saint-Martin-de-Ré will transport you into a magical world populated by the historical riches of the Cité Vauban, where gargoyles and statues seem to chatter to one another.

Salt marshes

Go on a bike trip to the salt marshes

Go on an adventure and cycle your way through the salt marshes! These fabulous landscapes between land and sea will make you want to get even closer to nature.

The Ernest Cognacq Museum

The Ernest Cognacq Museum

Located just opposite the Saint-Martin-de-Ré Welcome Centre, this museum is a must-see if you want to learn all about the history of the Ile de Ré and the key events that made the island!

Fat Bikes

Fat Bikes

Calling all sporty travellers - have you tried out a Fat Bike? Explore all the landscapes and terrains of the Ile de Ré!

Forest hikes

Forest hikes

Immerse yourself in the Ile de Ré flora and fauna! The Ile de Ré is covered in wooded areas between the dune barriers and the villages.

All-terrain scooters

All-terrain scooters

Are you a thrill-seeker and a fan of unconventional sports? If so, see the Ile de Ré differently on an all-terrain scooter! It’s an original way of discovering the island that’s suitable for everyone!

RandoJeu

Discovery cycle trips en famille

There’ll be fun for all the family on the Ile de Ré whatever the season with RandoJeu! 10 villages, 12 different routes, all available at the welcome centres or on Smartphone and tablet!