The Ile de Ré is a beautiful island which is 30km long, 5km at its widest point is just 30 mins drive away. It is accessed by a 3km long toll bridge which is €16.50 return 20th June - 11th September per car and €9 for the rest of the year. It is free for cycles with free parking for cars near the bridge.

There are sandy beaches to the south-west and salt marshes and oyster beds to the north-east.
The beautiful old port of La Flotte is well worth a visit. The island's capital, St-Martin, is an atmospheric north-coast fishing port with whitewashed houses clustered around a well-protected harbour. A spectacular view of the harbour can be had from the top of the church tower if you don't mind climbing a narrow wooden stairway.