With its 110 kilometers of flat cycle paths, the island of Ré is the perfect place to get away from it all by bike, and is child's play to cycle around. Whether you're a fan of leisurely rides, a family with children or a more sporty cyclist, you're bound to find a circuit that's just right for you. Here is our selection of the 5 most beautiful bike rides on the Île de Ré: between sea, marshes, forests and typical villages.
And to extend the experience, take advantage of our cosy accommodation close to the trails and all useful services.
1. Discovering the salt marshes
- Departure: La Couarde-sur-Mer
- Distance: 19 km
- Duration: 1h15 to 2h
- Level: Easy
- VAE: Yes
This tour takes you to the heart of the salt marshes, where the island takes on a white and gold hue. Start at the lively beach of La Couarde, ideal for families, before reaching Ars-en-Ré, listed as one of France's most beautiful villages. Along the way, the landscapes are open and silent, ideal for birdwatching and contemplation.
👉 Recommended break:
- Picnic on the edge of the marshes
- Ice cream break on the port of Ars
- Detour to bois de Trousse-Chemise, immortalized by Aznavour
2. Countryside and relaxation between Saint-Martin and Bois-Plage
- Departure: Saint-Martin-de-Ré
- Distance: 17 km
- Duration: 2h to 2h30
- Level: Easy
- VAE: Yes
This walk combines heritage, nature and gastronomy. Stroll through the narrow streets of Saint-Martin, a UNESCO site, before plunging into the hinterland: vineyards, pine forests and colorful markets. Join Bois-Plage, a seaside resort ideal for refreshments or lunch.
👉 Recommended break:
- Bois-Plage morning market
- Terrace café near the ramparts of Saint-Martin
3. Forest and wild paths towards the Phare des Baleines
- Departure: Les Portes-en-Ré
- Distance: 26 km
- Duration: 2h15 to 3h
- Level: Easy to moderate
- VAE: Recommended for fatigue-free cycling
Dive into the Lizay forest, cross the dunes to the splendid Conche beach and finish your loop at Phare des Baleines, one of the highest in France. Climb the 257 steps for a 360° view. At low tide, discover La Moufette, a traditional fish lock.
👉 Recommended break:
- Picnic spot at La Conche
- Café-lecture at Saint-Clément-des-Baleines
4. Historic bike ride between La Flotte and Fort La Prée
- Departure: La Flotte
- Distance: 11 km
- Duration: 1h30
- Level: Very easy
- VAE: Yes
An ideal family ride! Start at the medieval market in La Flotte, then visit the Fort La Prée, a military fortification steeped in history. Continue to l'Abbaye des Châteliers, before a leisurely return along the coast.
👉 Recommended break:
- Pancake or ice cream on the port of La Flotte
- Reading on the benches of the ramparts with sea view
5. Gourmandise in the south of the island
- Departure: Rivedoux-Plage
- Distance: 22 km
- Duration: 2h to 3h
- Level: Easy
- VAE: Yes
A circuit for gourmands. Between oyster farmers, organic market gardeners, honeys and Retais wines, this loop will whet your appetite. Pass through Sainte-Marie, enjoy the covered market, then follow the coast to Bois-Plage. Stops are free and always welcome!
👉 Recommended break:
- Oyster tasting in Rivedoux
- Market and coffee break in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré
Ride comparison table
| Ride | Distance | Duration | Level | Interest | VAE |---------------------------------------|----------|--------|------------|----------------------------------|-----| | Salt marshes and villages | 19 km | 1h15 | Easy | Nature, heritage | Yes | | Countryside & ramparts | 17 km | 2h | Easy | Heritage, vineyards, relaxation | Yes | Forests, beaches and lighthouse | 26 km | 2h30 | Moderate | Forest, swimming, viewpoint | Yes | Historic La Flotte | 11 km | 1h30 | Very easy| History, family, heritage | Yes | Sud gourmand | 22 km | 2h30 | Easy | Gastronomy, markets, coast | Yes |
Rent a bike on the Île de Ré
Would you like to rent a bike or VAE to explore the island?
👉 Discover the partner rental companies available at Lokki: simple online booking, with pick-up points in every village.
Whether marshes, secret beaches, majestic lighthouses or lively markets, every corner of the Île de Ré has its own atmosphere, its own rhythm. On a bike, you slow down, you look around, you breathe. And remember why we love this island so much.
