This 4-day bike trip is designed to be a short, accessible, and affordable adventure through relatively flat regions, making it ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, including retirees. Each day covers a manageable distance of around 50 km, allowing plenty of time to explore charming towns, enjoy scenic landscapes, and relax along the way. The trip is budget-friendly, with a range of affordable accommodation and meal options available. To make it even more convenient, travelers can easily return to their starting point by train or ferry, adding flexibility to the itinerary while minimizing travel time and effort at the end of the journey.

Île de Ré, located off the coast of western France, is a cycling paradise. Known for its scenic bike paths, charming villages, and beautiful beaches, the island offers a relaxing escape into nature, history, and seaside charm. Over four days, you’ll cycle approximately 50 km per day, exploring picturesque coastal towns, quaint villages, and enjoying local seafood delicacies. From the medieval port town of Saint-Martin-de-Ré to the sandy shores of La Couarde-sur-Mer, your adventure on Île de Ré will be a perfect blend of cycling and exploration, culminating in a convenient ferry ride back to the mainland.

Day 1: La Rochelle to Saint-Martin-de-Ré

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Begin in La Rochelle, a vibrant coastal city with a rich maritime history. Visit the Old Port and the iconic Towers of La Rochelle.
    • Cycle along the scenic coastline, passing salt marshes and coastal dunes, to reach Saint-Martin-de-Ré, a charming town known for its well-preserved fortifications and UNESCO World Heritage status.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Comptoir de l’Ocean (La Rochelle)
    • A seafood-focused restaurant with fresh catches of the day. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Le Bistrot du Port (Saint-Martin-de-Ré)
    • Waterfront dining offering delicious regional specialties. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel de Toiras (4-star, Saint-Martin-de-Ré)
      • Price: ~$180 USD per night.
      • A luxurious hotel in a historic building with views over the harbor.

Day 2: Saint-Martin-de-Ré to La Flotte

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle south through the island’s vineyards and quaint villages to reach La Flotte, one of the island’s most picturesque towns.
    • Visit the Abbaye des Châteliers and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the harbor.
  • Lunch Stop: La Table de l’Abbaye (La Flotte)
    • A charming spot with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Le Réservoir (La Flotte)
    • A cozy restaurant offering a mix of seafood and French dishes. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel & Spa Plaisir (3-star, La Flotte)
      • Price: ~$150 USD per night.
      • Relaxing hotel with a spa, located near the beach.

Day 3: La Flotte to La Couarde-sur-Mer

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Head west along the island’s coastline to La Couarde-sur-Mer, a lovely beach town famous for its wide sandy beaches and vibrant market.
    • Spend time relaxing on the beach or cycling along the coastal bike paths.
  • Lunch Stop: Les Délices de l’Île (La Couarde-sur-Mer)
    • Fresh, simple French cuisine with local ingredients. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Le Phare (La Couarde-sur-Mer)
    • A cozy spot for seafood lovers with delicious platters. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel Le Grand Large (3-star, La Couarde-sur-Mer)
      • Price: ~$140 USD per night.
      • A beachfront hotel offering modern comforts and sea views.

Day 4: La Couarde-sur-Mer to La Rochelle (Return)

Distance: ~50 km cycling + ferry

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle along the northern coastline of the island, passing through charming villages and fields of flowers, before returning to La Rochelle.
    • Once back in La Rochelle, enjoy a leisurely walk through the Old Port or visit the Maritime Museum.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Café de la Paix (La Rochelle)
    • Enjoy a meal with a view of the harbor, offering a selection of regional French dishes. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Return Journey:
    • Take the ferry from Île de Ré back to La Rochelle. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes and costs around $10 USD per person.

Pricing Summary

  • Accommodation: $130–$180 USD per night, offering a range of comfortable to luxurious stays.
  • Meals: $20–$30 USD per person per meal, featuring fresh seafood and local specialties.
  • Attractions: Most attractions are free, but entry to museums and historic sites typically costs $5–$10 USD.
  • Ferry Ride: Approximately $10 USD per person for the return trip.

Estimated Total: $850–$1,050 USD per person for the 4-day trip, covering accommodations, meals, and transportation.