Island Stopover at La Couarde-sur-Mer on the French Atlantic Coast

As soon as spring arrives, the Ile de Ré on France’s Atlantic coast becomes a must-visit destination. Authentic and welcoming, it offers all the ingredients for a refreshing and rejuvenating getaway. While the island's other ports, such as Saint-Martin-de-Ré and La Flotte, are well-known, we invite you to discover our favorite spot: the village of La Couarde-sur-Mer, located in the southwest of the island. Far less touristy, La Couarde-sur-Mer provides a more tranquil and charming experience.

Between whitewashed houses, flowery alleyways and fine sandy beaches, La Couarde-sur-Mer will seduce you.

Where to sleep in La Couarde-sur-Mer?

For the most delightful stay, drop your bags at Maison du Vigneron in La Couarde-sur-Mer. Owners Marine and François warmly open the doors of their charming family home to visitors year-round. Marine, originally from Mayenne, and François, a native of the Ile de Ré, embarked on this hospitality adventure after years of Parisian life in the catering and events industry.

Following the birth of their daughter Céleste and the COVID-19 lockdowns,they longed for more peace and space, leading them to leave Paris. They fell in love with this old winegrower's house and made their return to the island permanent.

Period woodwork, grandmother's cupboards, and walls and a fireplace in a dazzling Indian blue: Marine and François have lovingly preserved the unique and historic charm of the house.

At the entrance, through a large veranda, sunlight floods the magnificent tiled floor with Petits Pan patterns laid by the former owner, a painter. In the dining room, which once served as his workshop, his experimental paintings adorn the walls, carefully preserved by Marine.

The furniture and objects curated by Marine infuse the house with a cozy, country atmosphere. Wood, rattan, linen—these natural materials reflect a desire to create a warm, family-friendly space and encourage guests to slow down and savor their stay.

What to do in La Couarde-sur-Mer?

The 727 Crew Address Book

Discover La Couarde-sur-Mer, a charming and authentic village in the southwest of the Ile de Ré, home to 1,200 year-round residents. The village attracts summer visitors with its cobbled streets, historic residences, picturesque port, and some of the most beautiful beaches on the island—and even on the entire Atlantic coast.

Here are our top activity recommendations for a memorable stay—take note!

City walk

The center of La Couarde-sur-Mer is vibrant year-round, offering a range of shops and restaurants. For a charming lunch on the terrace, head to La Maison restaurant. After lunch, wander through the incredible labyrinth of flower-filled alleys, where hollyhocks and mimosas bloom.

Take your time exploring the narrow streets, home to remnants of old mills and historic residences like Les Marattes and La Passe. You'll also encounter old winegrowers' houses, a testament to the region's once-thriving viticulture industry.

Bike riding

To fully appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the Île de Ré, rent bikes for the day! Whether you choose a leisurely ride through the village lanes or a more adventurous route along the coast, the numerous cycle paths starting from La Couarde offer exceptional coastal panoramas.

These paths take you through beaches, vineyards, and salt marshes, showcasing the island's authentic charm.

Beach Day

La Couarde boasts 5 km of fine sandy beaches, making it the first renowned seaside resort on the Île de Ré in the early 20th century. Prises' beach is perfect for a swim or a family picnic.

For water sports enthusiasts, the beaches of Peu Ragot and La Pergola are ideal for surfing and windsurfing.

Boat trip

There's nothing better than a sea excursion to explore the stunning coast of the island. These trips, lasting approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, vary with the tides. You can choose from different types of boats, including the locally manufactured Rhea model from La Rochelle.

During the trip, you'll discover beautiful beaches, cruise along the coast, enter the channel, and take a break at the port of Ars-en-Ré for a coffee or an ice cream at Les Givrés.

Oyster tasting

Indulge in oysters and marine specialties at La Cabane de l'Huître du Saunier in La Couarde-sur-Mer, a serene spot in the heart of the salt marshes.Jean and Thierry, the on-site producers, warmly welcome you.

Savor delicacies like oysters, clams, local organic shrimp, whelks à la plancha, fish soup, and samphire soup—an authentic treat!