Ile de Ré: Experience France's Martha's Vineyard

• Visit the National Nature Reserve Lilleau des Niges: Spread between the villages of Les Portes-en-Ré and Ars-en-Ré, the nature reserve is home to over 300 bird species and diverse flora. The reserve plays a huge role in maintaining the biodiversity of the island. Although you cannot enter the reserve by foot, the best way to tour the nature reserve (and the island in general) is via the bike paths surrounding the refuge.

• Tour a salt marsh: Salt production methods on Île de Ré haven’t changed since the Middle Ages. The island's inhabitants have implemented a series of levees to protect parts of the island from high tides. At its peak, over 1,000 “sauniers” worked their craft across the island, carefully cultivating over 30,000 tons of salt per year. Today, the island is home to 70 sauniers who produce three types of salts using the traditional methods preserved and sold via Coopérative des Sauniers on the Île de Ré. To learn more about the salt marshes and this unique ecosystem, you can visit the Ecomuseum of the Salt Marshes in the village of Loix from March until September.

• Rent bikes and discover the island's ten unique villages: Île de Ré boasts over 100 kilometers of well-maintained bike paths that are car-free, relatively flat and family friendly. You will be able to rent bicycles at local shops across the island’s ten villages and travel seamlessly. Well-labeled directives that guide you between each of the island’s unique villages, known in French as communes.

• Take a surf lesson: If you are looking to catch some waves or give kitesurfing a try, head to one of the islands several surf schools for a private or group lesson!

• Climb the Phare des Baleines (Lighthouse of the Whales): Located on the tip of the island in the village of Saint-Clément-des-Baleines. At 57 meters, Phare des Baleines is one of the tallest lighthouses in France. At the top of the lighthouse (250 stairs) you will have sweeping views of the Ocean and the beauty of the island.

• Hit the beach: Ile de Re has several beautiful beaches that allow you to soak up the sun or enjoy a scenic beach walk in the colder months.

• See the famous donkeys in Trousers: A true symbol of the island! Agricultural workers across the island began dressing their donkeys in pants to protect them from the flies and mosquitoes that are found in abundance in the salt marshes across the island. Although donkeys are less prevalent across the island today, you can catch a glimpse of the donkeys in trousers on the outskirts of the village of Saint Martin de Re at Parc de la Barbette! Recommendation: Try one of the artisan soaps made from donkeys milk as a souvenir from your trip!

• Visit the vineyards across the island: Producing reds, whites and rosés across the islands 580 acres of vineyards, every wine enthusiast will find a bottle that suits their palette! Domaine Arnica is an organic winery on the outskirts.

• Visit an oyster farm: Visiting an oyster farm on Île de Ré is a delightful and immersive experience that offers a unique glimpse into the traditional art of oyster farming.

Day trip

Head back across the Bridge for a stroll through La Rochelle, the capital of the Charente-Maritime region of France. La Rochelle is a charming port city with a mix of architecture styles. Wander through the cobblestone streets in the heart of the city. Make a trip to the port to dine at an array of seafood-focused establishments if you haven’t had enough on Île de Ré.

• LA MARTINIÈRE: Family-run ice cream salon that began in St. Martin de Re and has grown to include shops in several of the other towns on Ile de Re. Expect the best salted caramel ice cream you’ll ever taste. Dare to try some of the shop's more unique flavors, such as rock or oyster-flavored ice cream!

• George’s: George's is a celebration of the region's finest ingredients, with a focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. Nestled in a picturesque location, the restaurant boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape of St. Martin, George’s offers a serene and inviting atmosphere for diners.

• Le Serghi: Nestled in the heart of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, this charming eatery offers guests an inviting atmosphere. Here they can enjoy exquisite dishes while taking in the picturesque views of the marina.

• Nora Restaurant Bar: The bar at Nora offers a curated selection of wines, cocktails and local beverages that perfectly complement the menu. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely lunch, a sunset dinner or simply stopping by for a drink, the ambiance is always inviting, with modern décor and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

• Restaurant La Maison: Tucked away in a beautifully restored building, La Maison offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Every detail — from the décor to the service — has been thoughtfully curated to create an exceptional dining experience.

• Le Cabane de Feneau: Le Cabane de Feneau is a quintessential Île de Ré dining experience that captures the rustic charm and authenticity of the island. Located in a serene coastal setting, this restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere where guests can unwind and savor the freshest seafood the region has to offer.