Hotel with Bike Rental on Île de Ré

1. Saint-Clément-des-Baleines and Les Portes-en-Ré – A Must-Do by Bike

From Hôtel des Grenettes, embark on an unforgettable ride to discover Île de Ré by following the route that connects Saint-Clément-des-Baleines to Les Portes-en-Ré. This loop is a must-do to explore the island's wildest landscapes, including an iconic lighthouse, pristine beaches, salt marshes, and a nature reserve.

A route between ocean, dunes, and salt marshes

The journey starts at the Phare des Baleines, one of the island’s most iconic monuments. From here, cycle along the beautiful Conche des Baleines Beach, lined with dunes and forests, making it a perfect spot for a break while facing the Atlantic.

As you continue, you’ll reach Les Portes-en-Ré, a typical village with white houses and green shutters, charming streets, and a lively market. Just after, the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve will offer you a unique spectacle: a preserved sanctuary where hundreds of migratory birds stop over.

On the return to Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, you’ll cycle through the island’s varied landscapes once more: beaches, forests, and salt marshes, completing this refreshing loop.

A route accessible to everyone

This route, with no major difficulties and perfectly maintained paths, is ideal for families, groups of friends, or cyclists looking for a nature-filled experience. Expect to spend 2.5 to 3 hours to fully enjoy it, with time to admire the scenery or taste some local specialties.

3. The Countryside Paths

Less known than the coastal routes, the Countryside Paths Loop is an invitation to discover Île de Ré in a different way. Between authentic villages, cultivated fields, vineyards, and forests, this approximately 25 km route reveals the rural and preserved side of the island, far from the hustle and bustle of the beaches and ports.

An immersion in Ré's countryside

The journey begins in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, one of the oldest villages on the island, known for its agricultural heritage and charming flower-lined alleys. Leaving the coast, you enter a landscape of fields and vineyards, where market gardens and vines stretch as far as the eye can see.

Cycling through the small country roads, you will pass Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré, known for its local wines and lively markets. Here, a tasting stop is a must to discover local products: pineau, cognac, or the typical white wines of the island.

The circuit continues towards Saint-Martin-de-Ré, whose fortifications, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, remind us of the island’s military history. You can wander around the lively port, admire the cobbled streets, and perhaps enjoy a break on a terrace.

The return journey to Sainte-Marie-de-Ré will take you through small paths lined with stone walls, typical of the rural landscape of the island, with shaded sections under oak and maritime pine trees.

An accessible and refreshing route

This loop, with no particular difficulty, is ideal for families and those who enjoy relaxing walks. With a secure and little-frequented path, it’s a great alternative to the more touristy bike paths. Plan for 2.5 to 3 hours to enjoy the scenery and make tasty stops along the way.

2. The Ars-en-Ré Loop

From Hôtel des Grenettes, set off to discover Île de Ré by following the famous Ars-en-Ré Loop. This route, accessible to everyone, immerses you in typical landscapes, from salt marshes to the ocean, forests, and authentic villages.

A route between nature and heritage

Starting from Ars-en-Ré, classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," this loop of about 20 km takes you through the famous salt marshes, where you can observe the salt workers at work. The route then follows the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve, a preserved site where many species of migratory birds stop for a break.

A route for all levels

With a low elevation gain, this loop is perfect for a family outing, a couple's ride, or a group of friends. The paths are well-maintained to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Expect to spend 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace and the stops you take to admire the scenery or taste some oysters along the way!

4. Chemin des Marais

From Hôtel des Grenettes, set off on a journey to discover the authentic Chemin des Marais, one of the most picturesque routes on Île de Ré. This loop, around 20 km, takes you deep into the salt marshes, typical villages, and preserved nature, offering a peaceful escape away from the bustle of the beaches.

A route between land and sea

The journey begins from Sainte-Marie-de-Ré, a charming village with streets lined with hollyhocks. After a few pedal strokes, you enter a timeless world: the salt marshes, where salt workers have shaped the landscape for centuries. The calm atmosphere here is ideal for observing local wildlife, such as herons, egrets, and avocets.

As you continue the loop, you’ll reach La Flotte, one of the most beautiful villages on Île de Ré, with its picturesque port and medieval market. A tasty stop is a must to enjoy local specialties like oysters or the salt harvested nearby.

The return leg takes you through more salt marsh and vineyard landscapes, showcasing a variety of typical island views. The tranquility of the route, complemented by the changing colors of the sky and reflections on the water, makes it an ideal ride to recharge.

An accessible and pleasant route

With little elevation gain and well-maintained paths, this loop is suitable for all levels, from families to long-distance walkers. Expect to spend between 2 to 2.5 hours depending on your pace and the breaks you take.