Brimming with maritime traditions, authentic charm, and untamed nature, the Atlantic Ocean islands of Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron are captivating destinations. Both islands offer abundant outdoor activities immersed in nature, from cycling and sailing to beach walks and oyster tasting. Whether you choose the picturesque villages on chic Île de Ré or the unspoilt landscapes of rustic Île d’Oléron, each island promises a distinct seaside escape filled with character.
Part of the Charente-Maritime department off the west coast of France, Île de Ré and Île d’Oléron are Atlantic Ocean pearls where unspoilt nature meets rich local culture. Both islands are blanketed with sweeping beaches, dunes and forests, plus historic forts and oysters aplenty. Thanks to their mild climate, it never feels too hot even in the high season of summer. Ideal for cycling or family holidays, the islands are home to stylish seaside villas and authentic villages to enjoy at a laid-back pace. Accessible from the adjacent mainland via bridges between Île de Ré and La Rochelle or Île d’Oléron and Bourcefranc-le-Chapus, the islands are easy to access while feeling like a true escape.
Chic, peaceful Île de Ré is worth a visit for those seeking coastal charm, where salt-tinged air meets timeless horizons. Known for its whitewashed houses, hollyhocks and salt marshes, it is also home to discreet second homes for celebrities. Explore the 18th-century UNESCO fortifications in Saint-Martin-de-Ré and climb 257 steps at Les Baleines Lighthouse for an epic 360° view. Spot thousands of birds at Lilleau des Niges nature reserve on the tip of the island or choose from 100 km of cycle paths across vineyards and dunes. Enjoy fine dining in La Flotte and Ars-en-Ré or a bucolic picnic on the beach or in a forest.
Larger and more untamed than Île de Ré, Île d’Oléron is both rustic and authentic, with vast forests, vibrant fishing villages and wide open spaces. Perfect for outdoor activities, the island delights sailing and seafood lovers, while offering a variety of waves for surfing, windsurfing and scuba diving in the ocean or kayaking and paddleboarding in the Marennes-Oléron marshes.
Visit the citadel in Le Château-d’Oléron and meet oyster farmers in Fort Boyar while admiring their colourful oyster huts. Enjoy wide beaches like Vert-Bois or La Brée-les-Bains or an outing to Saint-Trojan-Les-Bains for Belle Époque villas, a 2000-hectare forest and the Plage du Soleil beach. For a family-friendly adventure, take a boat trip from Saint-Denis d’Oléron to witness the majestic 19th-century Fort Boyard.
Should you go to Île de Ré or Île d’Oléron? It depends on what kind of escape you are seeking. For relaxation and sophistication, Île de Ré is discreet and elegant, ideal for families seeking calm, charm and refined coastal lifestyle. Its gentle pace, pretty villages and polished atmosphere create a serene retreat. For nature and adventure, Île d’Oléron is more dynamic and wild, perfect for families who love the outdoors. Larger and more affordable, it offers lively beaches, vast landscapes and a rich seafood culture, with oysters from the largest basin in Europe alongside mussels and fresh fish. Slightly more crowded yet dynamic, the island enchants with its authenticity.
Villanovo has a wide range of luxury villas with a private pool, garden, and access to the beach in ten minutes or less. These family-friendly amenities set the stage for a great holiday with your loved ones.
Our villas are available in prime locations on Île de Ré (Les Portes en Ré, Ars en Ré, Le Bois-Plage en Ré, and Rivedoux-Plage) and Île d’Oléron (Saint Pierre d'Oléron and Saint-Georges-d'Oléron) in the Charente-Maritime department.
Thanks to Villanovo's concierge service, every stay becomes an exclusive experience. Enjoy plenty of services that are organised to your wishes, like bike rentals, boat trips across the Pertuis D'Antioche strait, private chefs, and family-friendly activities. Our local experts are happy to provide recommendations for restaurants, activities, and things to do during your holiday in Île de Ré or Île d’Oléron.
