From the picturesque harbour in Saint-Martin-de-Ré to the fine-sand beaches of Les Portes-en-Ré, Île de Ré is a coastal paradise on the Atlantic Ocean. Weaving through bucolic landscapes of vineyards and salt marshes, its 100 km of cycle paths set the pace for a relaxing holiday. Rent a Villanovo villa to best experience this island's timeless charm in style. Whether you seek seaside tranquillity or convivial villages, find the best places to stay on Île de Ré with our exclusive guide.
As the vibrant capital of Île de Ré, Saint-Martin-de-Ré invites you to walk through history. Explore its magnificent 18th-century, UNESCO-listed fortifications designed by Vauban, which encircle a picturesque harbour lined with lively cafés and seafood restaurants. Throughout the season, the town buzzes with an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, offering chic boutique shopping and bustling daily markets filled with local delicacies. It is the perfect base for an unforgettable island holiday, beautifully combining rich maritime heritage, elegant coastal style, and sweeping Atlantic views.
Our clients' recommended villas in Saint-Martin-de-Ré: Villa Campani and Villa Gardenia
Steeped in charm, La Flotte is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Its vibrant heart features a bustling medieval market and a scenic marina that hums with a relaxed seaside atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for families, boasting gentle, fine-sand beaches, kid-friendly restaurants, and scenic cycle paths. History buffs will love exploring the nearby ruins of the 12th-century Châteliers Abbey. Offering a perfect blend of culture and coastal leisure, La Flotte is easily one of the best places to stay with children on the island.
The best family-friendly villa in La Flotte: Villa La Vie en Ré
With its traditional whitewashed cottages, charming flower alleyways, and preserved nature, Les Portes-en-Ré is perfect for a laidback holiday. This peaceful village serves as the gateway to Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve, a bird-watching paradise of thousands of migratory birds that can be explored by hiking, walking, cycling, or taking guided tours. Idyllic cycling routes connect the town to the long, sandy beach of Petit Bec and Trousse-Chemise, an unspoilt beach nestled beautifully between pine forests and rolling sand dunes.
Our favourite villas in Les Portes-en-Ré: Villa Aurore and Villa les Amazones
Classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Ars-en-Ré is a maritime gem surrounded by salt marshes and vineyards. Its whitewashed houses lead to an iconic black-and-white church steeple, which once guided sailors. Experience the traditional village atmosphere at lively local markets and waterfront cafés. Just a short cycle away lies Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, home to the historic Phare des Baleines (Lighthouse of the Whales). Climb its 257 steps to marvel at spectacular 360-degree views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Our selection of exceptional villas in Ars-en-Ré: Villa Offenbach and Villa Victoire
Nestled along the coast, Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré boasts one of the island's most beautiful stretches of fine-sand beaches, making it incredibly popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The village is also famous for hosting the largest daily market on the island from April to September, where over 150 vibrant vendors showcase local delicacies and artisan crafts. After shopping, relax at a café in the lively central square, or explore the surrounding pine forests via the scenic network of cycling paths that crisscross this beautiful area.
Our clients' preferred villas in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré: Villa Néréide and Villa Olivia
Steeped in history, Sainte-Marie-de-Ré is one of the oldest towns on the island. It offers an authentic, timeless village atmosphere beautifully surrounded by rolling vineyards and peaceful countryside. Visitors flock here for its quiet, wild beaches and stunning examples of traditional Rétais architecture, characterized by narrow lanes of pristine white cottages with classic green shutters. The town is perfect for those seeking a slower, more tranquil pace, combining a rich maritime heritage with the quiet beauty of rural French island life.
Discover these villas in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré: Villa Ré'lax and Villa Rosalie
Villa Île de Ré by Villanovo offers a collection of hand-picked villas on Île de Ré with private swimming pools, gardens, quiet locations, and easy access to the beach. Each of these exceptional homes brims with luxury amenities, ideal settings for creating memorable moments with family and friends.
Find our villas in prime locations across Île de Ré: Les Portes en Ré, Ars en Ré, Le Bois-Plage en Ré and Saint-Martin-de-Ré.
Our exceptional concierge service is available throughout your holiday. Dedicated to offering a bespoke service, our concierges are happy to organise unique experiences, like booking boat trips, transfers from La Rochelle Airport, oyster tastings, childcare or a private chef. With each villa rental, you will get a personalised travel diary that lists restaurants, beaches, and the best things to do on Île de Ré for an unforgettable family holiday.
