Cycling is one of the most popular activities for holidaymakers, especially the youngest, on this flat island. Some ride for dozens of kilometers along the bike paths, crossing fields and vineyards in various villages.

Over 130 km of Cycle Paths

Exploring these cycle paths is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the landscapes and the charm of the villages on Île de Ré. It's an opportunity to discover iconic tourist spots such as the Phare des Baleines on the western tip of the island (in the commune of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines) or the salt marshes in Loix, for example. For safety reasons, the cycle paths are kept away from major roads and are all clearly marked. However, caution is advised at intersections and roundabouts. Exploring vast landscapes by bike is enjoyable, but endurance has its limits. During the summer months, a bus service takes tired riders back to their starting points. Practically, some vacationers set out by bike and return by bus, while others do the opposite.

On Île de Ré, there are around thirty bike rental shops catering to all budgets. Both visitors and residents can choose from various types of bicycles:

  • City bikes
  • Hybrid bikes
  • Cross-country bikes
  • Racing bikes
  • Touring bikes
  • Recumbent bikes
  • Tandem bikes
  • Electric bikes
  • Children's bikes
  • Bikes with trailers for children, pets, or shopping baskets

The public also has access to a vast network of cycle paths. One popular route starts at the Tourist Office in La Couarde-sur-Mer. This ride passes several major attractions, including the Atelier de Verre and the Chenal du Goisil. The journey leads to an intersection towards Loix. Continuing the ride, one can discover the salt marshes, the La Rhétaise oyster farm, and other sites like the Tour des Prises (on Chemin de la Grifforine), the Prises beach (on the southern part of Île de Ré), the neo-Gothic Notre-Dame-de-l'Annonciation church (in the heart of La Couarde-sur-Mer), and the music kiosk.

Cycle Paths: Info and Safety

Certain rules must be followed to ensure a safe bike trip:

  • Ride on the right side of the path
  • Maintain a reasonable speed
  • Avoid racing, even with friends
  • Be cautious at intersections and roundabouts
  • Wear a helmet
  • Stay on marked trails

There are also 4 information points near the cycle paths:

  • Sablanceaux – Rivedoux-Plage
  • Gros Jonc - Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré
  • Le Martray - Ars-en-Ré
  • La Maison du Fier - Les Portes-en-Ré

Take advantage of our Île de Ré map to discover all the cycle paths on the island!