Location maison Ile de Ré | Loix en Ré-A host of activities close at hand

Catamaran or sailing dinghy

Ever dreamt of heading out on the open seas?

The Loix basin is open to the ocean, so it is always protected from the swell, and makes it an ideal place to have fun without fear.

Located on the Petite Tonille beach, the local sailing school with its FFV qualified instructors will welcome you in a friendly atmosphere to teach you the basics of sailing a catamaran or dinghy.

Special courses are available for children, so they can become real little sailors.

If you’re already an experienced sailor, you can rent their boats for half a day or a full day (with sliding scale rates).

Don’t hesitate to visit their website for more information: Île de Ré Voile or contact them by phone +33 (0)6 60 35 38 44

Photo ©: Île de Ré Voile

Windsurfing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding,

Whether you are a thrill-seeker or prefer a more leisurely pace, you will find something to satisfy your every desire at the sailing school.

You can take private or group lessons in several types of water sports:

Windsurfing… to keep your feet firmly on the water
Kitesurfing… to harness the wind and take to the skies
Stand Up Paddle Boarding… to glide along at your own pace

You will also have the possibility of cruising along the wetland canals to enjoy this exceptional setting right in the heart of a calm natural environment.

Of course, you can rent all the equipment you need for your nautical excursions following some helpful advice from the sailing school.

Photo ©: Ile de Ré voile

Hiring a motor boat

If you feel like taking a ‘dip in the ocean’ or going to La Rochelle without getting stuck in traffic, there is a solution: hiring a motor boat.

The only requirement is to have a skipper on board who holds a ‘carte-mer’ (boating permit) or a boat licence... and to pay close attention to the tide times.

You will find several trustworthy operators listed below, just click on the link:

- Patrick Boat Hire in La Rochelle

- PZ Sailing in La Rochelle

- Blondeau Marine in Ars en Ré

Photo ©: Nadège Billaud

Sea air

there’s nothing better for your health ...

What could be better than wandering along to the sounds of the tides and the wetlands!

The island has numerous cycle paths, making it possible to explore in complete safety and tranquillity. However, if you prefer to stroll on foot, take advantage of the plethora of footpaths that allow you to discover all the hidden spots of the island at your own pace.

Breathe in the fresh ocean air!

Departing from the house, why not jog along the coast to admire the magical view that is one of the most outstanding panoramas in France!

There are two different routes:

to Grouin beach
to La Couarde via Loix port.

You’ll feel rejuvenated and beautiful views are guaranteed!

Find information on all the island’s cycle paths by clicking here

Photo ©: Nouvelle Aquitaine Tourisme

Enjoy some unique experiences...

Just a few metres from the garden gate, learn how salt is produced according to the traditional methods of the Retaise farmers. Meet one of the island’s 90 salt producers still operating, who will be delighted to talk to you about their trade… watch them working and learn all there is to know about salt production on the Ile de Ré!

If you want to find out even more about salt farming, then visit the Écomusée du Marais Salant in Loix, a museum located in a unique setting on the edge of the proud Ars en Ré village.

In the heart of the salt marshes, in a wonderful environment, you will find the Loix horse riding centre (a 5-minute walk from the house).

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, the Loix horse riding centre offers introductory courses, group or individual lessons as well as accompanied rides… perfect for exploring the wetlands without actually getting your feet wet!

For reservations click here.

Visit outstanding sites combining nature

With its 35 hectares of oyster beds, the Ferme des Baleines undertakes a variety of aquaculture activities: production and maturing of oysters, production of sea lettuce and samphire using organic farming methods, and the breeding of imperial shrimps, clams, and gilthead bream.

This aquaculture farm is open to the public and offers you the opportunity to visit its production site, which is both respectful of its ecosystem and to the richness of its natural environment.

To book, visit the Ferme des Baleines website by clicking here.

If your taste buds are tingling, a warm welcome awaits you at Cave des Vignerons, Ile de Ré’s winery, where you can visit the distillery, the cognac and Pineau cellars, and learn about their wine production. A tasting awaits you at the end of the visit, accompanied by delicious local products.

For the more adventurous, take a bike ride through the vineyards, with a stop at an oyster farm to enjoy a few oysters direct from the producer.

Take the time to pamper yourself...

Does your busy schedule leave you no time for your favourite activities?

Take advantage of your holiday to perfect that serve at the Loix tennis club, a club in a lovely setting with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. There are 5 courts available, including 2 covered clay courts, in addition to 2 squash courts. Click here for more information about how to book.

Take a break and listen to your body by joining a yoga class at one of the many yoga schools on the island, and learn the benefits of Asanas and Pranayama!

You’ll enjoy that feeling of inner well-being in an idyllic outdoor setting.

Click here to visit their Facebook page.