Hiking on Île de Ré

A destination perfectly suited to eco-friendly travel and outdoor activities, Île de Ré is crisscrossed by cycling paths and hiking trails. Marked routes make it easy to navigate the island while offering privileged access to its natural and architectural heritage. Walkers of all ages and abilities will find circuits of various lengths and levels, from a peaceful stroll to a full nature hike just steps from our Île de Ré hotel, Les Grenettes.

Exploring the Treasures of Île de Ré

Hiking on Île de Ré allows you to discover its villages and landscapes at a natural pace, taking time to linger at numerous points of interest, both prominent and hidden.

A 3-hour hike spanning just over 11 km in La Couarde-sur-Mer showcases diverse landscapes, including flower-lined alleys, beaches, vineyards, and salt marshes. Starting from the La Couarde tourist office, the circuit offers a glimpse into the town’s history through stops at Bonnin Square, the old train station, artisan workshops, and the picturesque Goisil port. A detour through the salt marshes provides a chance to watch salt workers at their craft. After a gourmet break with local oyster farmers, head to the Tour des Prises and the beaches of Prises and Peu Ragot. Before returning to the tourist office, you’ll admire the 1865 church and the 1895 bandstand.

A 5-hour, 19-km hike awaits avid walkers between Saint-Clément-des-Baleines and Les Portes-en-Ré. Focused on nature and biodiversity, this route crosses exceptional natural areas like the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve, a vital sanctuary for migratory birds. Starting in Saint-Clément, the circuit loops through salt marshes, the Trousse-Chemise woods, and along beaches toward the Baleines lighthouse.

Another must-see is the fortifications trail, a moderate 13-km hike taking around 3.5 hours. This blue-marked route starts at Rivedoux-Plage and follows the northern coastline to Saint-Martin-de-Ré via La Flotte, offering unique views of Vauban’s iconic constructions.

Family-Friendly Hikes on Île de Ré

Short and playful routes are perfect for families with young children or beginner walkers.

In Rivedoux, a 3.6-km family hike, dotted with riddles, makes exploring the town's treasures fun and engaging. The “Strollers and Scooters” greenway circuit offers a leisurely 1.5-hour walk.

On the other side of the island, Loix offers a 5-km, hour-long hike through salt marshes, countryside, and coastline.

For a fun twist, Les Portes-en-Ré features a smartphone app with puzzles to solve, combining fresh air, the joy of hiking, and cultural discovery. This 2-km hike is built around the theme of wells, making it ideal for families.

During peak season, guided nature walks and storytelling hikes are organized across the island’s villages. These include explorations of salt marshes and the Lilleau des Niges reserve, as well as heritage-focused hikes interwoven with local tales and Île de Ré history.