Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré: Beaches, Market and Heritage

Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré brings together beaches, paths, market life and distinctive buildings in a clearly defined local character. When looking for a hotel, it helps to decide in advance which aspects of your stay matter most: would you like to focus on the coast, visit a market, or combine walks, history and local experiences? The following options highlight the different things the area has to offer.

Beaches, Coastal Paths and Landscape

The beaches have wide stretches of fine sand. Surfing in Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré attracts surfers of all experience levels and adds a specific activity to the beach experience.

L'estacade is a path through the dunes with direct access to Bidon V and Gollandières beaches. The accessible boardwalk at Gollandières runs along the coast and leads to Gollandières Beach. The route descriptions differ in the extent of their destinations: L'estacade provides access to two named beaches, while the boardwalk leads to Gollandières Beach.

Le Peu des Aumonts offers a notable elevation: at 19 metres, the dune is the highest point on Île de Ré and is protected by woodland. This adds further aspects of the landscape to the sandy stretches and coastal paths.

Market and Local Experiences

The seasonal market in Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré is the largest on Île de Ré. It brings the market halls and streets to life, from Place de Lazatte to Rue de Sainte-Marie. Visitors can find local products and souvenirs there.

The Cave Coopérative offers tours of the Chais in July and August. As these tours are seasonal, it is best to check the dates in advance.

A morning bike tour through the vineyards in Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré includes a guided introduction to Rétais spirits and a tasting featuring local products. This sets it apart from a market visit: the tour combines cycling through the vineyards with a guided discovery of spirits and a tasting.

Buildings and History

The Moulin de Bellère was built in 1674 and is the only windmill on Île de Ré to have retained its sails. The Batterie Herta offers a different historical perspective: it is considered the second most important site of the Atlantic Wall on Île de Ré.

The Church of Saint-Étienne is an architectural landmark. Its white bell tower rises above the traditional houses. The church is part of the accessible walking tour of Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré, which has been awarded the Tourisme & Handicap certification.

From April to September, Église de Tous-Les-Saints offers free guided tours every Monday morning from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. For this seasonal schedule, it is best to check the dates before visiting. The churches therefore offer different visiting experiences: Saint-Étienne is part of the accessible walking tour, while Tous-Les-Saints offers guided tours at the times specified.

Leisure and Active Options

The Plaine de jeux des Gollandières is a place for all generations to play, enjoy recreation and relax. Leisure activities take centre stage here, while the walking tour and churches offer other ways to explore the area.

The Haras des Evières offers rides for all ages and riding levels. Beach rides have a stricter requirement: they are reserved for experienced riders with at least Galop 3 level. As participation requirements may change, check the current requirements in advance.

As of August 2026, the tourist office in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré provides cycling route maps and a bicycle repair kit. Before your visit, check whether these services are still available.

Discover more destinations: Boisredon, Saint-Laurent-de-la-Prée, Rivedoux-Plage, Boresse-Et-Martron, Saint-Trojan-Les-Bains, Préguillac, Chenac-Saint-Seurin-D'uzet, Les Mathes.

Return to the main travel overview: Charente-Maritime.