How to Get to Île de Ré from the UK: 5 Easy Travel Options

A peaceful haven on France’s Atlantic coast, Île de Ré is known for its wild beaches, charming villages, and laid-back elegance. Think cycling trails, fresh oysters, and sunsets over the salt marshes. Whether you're planning a family vacation or a retreat with friends, Île de Ré promises a timeless experience. Thanks to excellent air, rail, road, and sea links — including a scenic bridge that connects the mainland to the island — travelling to Île de Ré from the UK is easier than ever. Here, we break down five convenient ways to reach the island.

What are the best ways to get to Île de Ré from the UK?

1. Where to fly to for Île de Ré? LRH Airport

Flights to Île de Ré are the quickest and most convenient way to travel from the United Kingdom. La Rochelle – Île de Ré Airport (LRH) is the nearest airport, located just 2 km from the bridge to the island. During the summer months, direct flights to La Rochelle operate from several UK cities:

• EasyJet: London Gatwick, Bristol, and Manchester to La Rochelle (June to August).
• Ryanair: London Stansted to La Rochelle (March to October).

Once you land, it takes around 20–30 minutes to drive to your villa in one of the island’s ten charming villages. Car hire, taxis and local bus services are also available at the airport, offering options for every price range and travel style.

2. Travel by train to La Rochelle and cross the Île de Ré bridge

For eco-friendly travellers, a scenic rail journey is possible. Travelling by train from London to Île de Ré takes approximately 7 hours and involves a few connections:

• Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord (~2 h 20 min)
• Transfer across Paris to Montparnasse Train Station
• TGV Atlantique from Paris Montparnasse to La Rochelle (~3 h)

Once in La Rochelle, it’s a short taxi or bus ride across the bridge to Île de Ré. This route is ideal for those who wish to combine their trip with a stopover in Paris and minimise their carbon footprint. Travel times may vary slightly depending on schedules and connections, so we recommend checking in advance.

3. Take a ferry from the UK to France

If you prefer not to fly or rail, consider a ferry crossing:

• Brittany Ferries operates crossings from Portsmouth to Saint-Malo (approx. 9 hours)
• From Saint-Malo, it’s a 3.5-hour drive south to La Rochelle (approx. 430 miles / 695 km)

This option allows you to bring your car and savour a leisurely road trip through Brittany and the western coast of France.

4. By car from London to Île de Ré

For ultimate flexibility, drive the entire way:

1. London to Folkestone:
   • Distance: ~110 km.
   • Time: ~1 h 45 min via M20 and A20.
2. Eurotunnel crossing:
   • • Crossing time: ~35 min
     • Standard ticket from £118 per vehicle one-way.
     • Up to four departures per hour at peak times.
3. Calais to La Rochelle:
   • Distance: ~695 km (432 miles).
   • Driving time: ~6 h 45 min via A26, A10 autoroutes.
   • Toll charges along the French autoroutes (approximately €70–€80) – use the Sanef toll calculator for precise costs.
4. Cross the Île de Ré bridge:
   • Bridge toll for cars: €8 (Sept 12–Jun 19) or €16 (Jun 20–Sep 11) round-trip.
   • Free for cyclists and pedestrians.

Driving offers the freedom to explore at your own pace and stop off at scenic spots en route.

5. Travel by boat from La Rochelle to Île de Ré

For a unique coastal approach, take a boat transfer. From April to September, Interîles ferries run daily crossings between La Rochelle's old port (Esplanade Saint-Jean d'Arc) and Saint-Martin-de-Ré, the island’s historic capital and first village you’ll encounter when crossing from the mainland.

This option is especially charming if you're arriving in La Rochelle by train and want to experience Île de Ré from the sea. We advise to book in advance during high season, especially as demand and prices can fluctuate.

Explore the island by bus or by bike

Once you’ve arrived, getting around is effortless:

• Buses: Lines 3 and 3E connect La Rochelle’s airport and train station to all ten island villages, making it easy to reach your villa, from Les Portes-en-Ré to Rivedoux-Plage. Regular services offer an affordable way to travel without a car.
• Bicycles: Île de Ré boasts over 60 miles (100 km) of flat, secure cycling trails – the best way to soak up the island’s charm.
  • Rental options include classic, electric, and family-friendly bikes; trailers and child seats are widely available.
  • Shops such as Holland Bikes, Sunêlia Interlude, and Cycles N offer daily and weekly rental rates, with electric models from mid-April to September.

Cycling lets you discover many treasures of the island – hidden beaches, quaint villages, and salt marsh vistas at your own pace

Why visit Île de Ré? Things to see and do

Golden beaches, salt marshes, picturesque ports, and rich history — Île de Ré is a destination like no other. Each village has its own atmosphere:

• Saint-Martin-de-Ré: Stroll along fortified UNESCO-listed ramparts and enjoy chic cafés by the harbour
• Bois-Plage-en-Ré: Home to the island’s largest market and family-friendly beaches
• La Flotte: A quaint fishing village with a medieval market and the historic Abbaye des Châteliers
• Saint-Clément-des-Baleines: Climb the Phare des Baleines lighthouse for 360° island views
• Les Portes-en-Ré: A peaceful base for cycling and salt marsh explorations
• Ars-en-Ré: A must-see on the western coast. The picturesque port of Ars-en-Ré is known for its black-and-white bell tower, sailing boats, and vibrant cafés by the quay.

Beyond the villages, the island offers a wealth of experiences. Discover hidden coves along the coastline, visit the salt pans and learn about the island’s long-standing salt-harvesting traditions, or take a guided horseback ride through the pine forests. Food lovers can sample local delicacies such as oysters, pineau des Charentes, and Île de Ré potatoes, all celebrated in bustling markets all over the island.

With over 100 km of cycle paths, gourmet restaurants, and artisan markets, the island encourages slow travel and outdoor living. And with Villanovo’s portfolio of handpicked luxury villas, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and authenticity — from arrival to the very end of your stay.

Villanovo in Île de Ré: Exceptional holidays with tailored concierge service

Our exclusive collection

Villanovo offers a carefully curated selection of luxury villas across France, including the charming island of Île de Ré. Discover beachfront homes with breathtaking views, family-friendly villas perfect for unforgettable gatherings, or properties with jacuzzis and heated pools for cosy evenings.

An exceptional experience

Our dedicated concierge team takes care of every detail, allowing you to fully unwind and savour your holiday. From booking excursions and water sports to arranging private chefs and more, each stay is tailored to your exact wishes. The finishing touch? A personalised travel booklet filled with insider recommendations—our favourite places to eat, drink, shop, and explore on Île de Ré.