The magical island of Ile de Ré is simply perfect for travelling all year round where the climate is moderate for 12 months. Ile de Ré boasts to be the sunniest region in France and even in the winters you will see the sun just about all the time on the island. There are countless activities to do on Ile de Ré during the summer and you can always choose to just soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of the island. But now let’s see what the island has to offer during the winter, and yes winters are also perfect for travelling, just change your perspective and have a happy traveller’s soul and we are ready!
As we know, the summer months on the island can be very busy and bustling with tourists, while the winter months are totally quieter; the island is rather almost empty. For a quiet soulful experience, this is the perfect time to explore and have all the space for yourself. The best we can suggest is to go cycling on the island. You will feel the cold wind, certainly, but you will have a calm air, you will be all alone, with no crowded streets or corners, and you will experience everything in seclusion, which will bring serenity for your mind and soul.
Experience the secluded view of the island from the Les Baleines Lighthouse
This is one of the experiences you will only have during the quiet winter months. The Phare des Baleines is a lighthouse built in 1849 and is 57 meters high, making it the highest lighthouse in all of France. You can climb all of its 257 steps to reach the top and behold a view that you won't have the chance to catch sight of during the rest of the seasons. The perfect view of the island from the top of the lighthouse is even more enchanting when you can admire the beauty of the island without having others present and grasp its true beauty.
Imagining an empty beach on the Ile de Ré is almost impossible, even at odd hours of the day, the beaches are often full of people. But this is not the case in winter, that's for sure! In winter, the beaches and the coastline are out of reach of people. Of course, you won't be able to sunbathe, but you will be able to walk along the sea in a moment of tranquillity that is just as rejuvenating for your mind. Admire the sea and soak up the sound of the waves and let yourself drift off into nature all by yourself during the chilly but refreshing winter months.
Salt harvesting on Ile de Ré is an age-old heritage practised since antiquity. The salt marshes of the Ile de Ré are emblematic for the island. The village of Ars en Ré is home to the most beautiful salt marshes that exist on the island. These salt marshes are not only visually appealing, but they are also home to a varied biodiversity and unique bird species that visit these marshes. You can explore these marshes by bicycle or canoe to live a unique experience when you have all the space you need to enjoy the experience.
Taking advantage of the isolation of tourists and crowds that is high on the island in spring and summer, visiting places of interest during the winter is by far the best! You will have the time you need to understand the history of these places without having to feel the presence of the crowd around you. This is the best experience while exploring an ancient monument without the masses of tourists around you.
The island of Ré is covered with forests and hiking trails, in the hills or along the coast, the hiking trails are just a piece of paradise. Under the winter sun, hiking in the beautiful forests of the Ile de Ré is an experience you want to live without worrying about being overwhelmed by the heat of the summer sun. The fresh winter air and the secluded views while hiking is an experience you should definitely relish. The island's wildflowers, unique flora and fauna and lush forests will surely enchant you even more during the winter months.
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