Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré combines wide stretches of sand with paths through the dunes and distinctive historic sites. There is also a seasonal market, cycling and riding activities, and an accessible walking route. When planning your visit, you can choose different areas of interest: coastal paths lead to named beaches, while churches, a mill and a battery offer different points of reference in the history of Île de Ré.

Beaches and paths through the dunes

The beaches of Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré have wide expanses of fine sand. Surfing is also part of the local offering and attracts surfers of all experience levels. The landscape extends beyond the beach: Le Peu des Aumonts is a forest-protected dune and, at 19 metres, the highest point on Île de Ré. When choosing a coastal path, its route matters: L'estacade passes through the dunes and provides direct access to Bidon V and Gollandières beaches; the accessible boardwalk at Gollandières, by contrast, runs along the coast to the beach of the same name.

Market, churches and island history

Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré has the largest seasonal market 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 at the market. As it is seasonal, check the current dates before your visit.

From April to September, free guided tours take place at Église de Tous-Les-Saints every Monday between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Check the times again before your visit. The church of Saint-Étienne is part of the accessible walking route through the town, which has been awarded the Tourisme & Handicap certification. Its white bell tower rises above the traditional houses.

The Moulin de Bellère mill adds another distinct historical note: built in 1674, it is the only mill on Île de Ré to have retained its sails. The Herta battery represents a different chapter in the island’s history and is considered the second most important site of the Atlantic Wall on Île de Ré. The mill and battery thus offer different historical themes.

Cycling, riding and recreation

With the Tèrra Aventura geocaching app, you can explore Le Bois-Plage-En-Ré by bike and solve puzzles along the way. The activity is intended for families or friends. 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. The Cave Coopérative offers tours of the chai in July and August; check availability before your visit.

Haras des Evières offers rides for all ages and riding levels. There is a stricter requirement for beach rides: they are reserved for experienced riders with at least Galop 3 level. Before your visit, check whether the activity and its participation requirements are still current.

A place for all generations to play, relax and unwind, Plaine de jeux des Gollandières adds to the town’s range of outings and activities.

Discover more destinations: Périgny, Thairé, Barzan, Bouhet, Epargnes, Saint-Loup, Saint-Sulpice-De-Royan, Péré.

For the broader travel overview: Charente-Maritime.