Cycling the Île de Ré: The Complete Guide
Riding the Pont de l’Île de Ré + Cycling Across the Island
The Île de Ré is one of France’s most scenic and cycle-friendly destinations — but what’s it really like to ride across the famous 2.9 km bridge and explore the island itself?
This page brings together both of my in-depth cycling videos, answering the most common questions riders ask before visiting.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from La Rochelle, following the Vélodyssée, or deciding if the island is suitable for “serious cycling”, this page gives you clear, practical answers.
Video 1: Cycling Over the Pont de l’Île de Ré
Is the bridge safe? How steep is it? What about wind? Can kids ride it?
Watch the full video here:
Cycling Over the Pont de l’Île de Ré
What you’ll learn in the video
- Length of the bridge: 2.9 km
- Average gradient: ~3%, very manageable
- Dedicated cycle lane fully separated from traffic
- Crosswind exposure — the real challenge
- How long it takes to ride across (10–12 min)
- Best conditions for crossing safely
- Whether you can cycle across with children
- Access from La Rochelle + where to rent bikes
🎥 Video 2: Serious Cycling on the Île de Ré — Is It Worth It?
Is the island only for leisure riders, or is there real cycling to be done?
Watch the full video here:
Serious Cycling on the Île de Ré?
What you’ll learn in the video
- Are the trails actually suitable for fast or long-distance rides?
- How flat is the island really?
- Can you cycle the full Île de Ré in a single day?
- The best loops via salt marshes, beaches, villages & coastal paths
- Where the smoothest tarmac is
- Which parts get congested in summer
- Whether to bring a road bike, gravel bike, or e-bike
Quick Answers
Is the Île de Ré good for cycling?
Yes — the island has over 110 km of cycle paths, most of them separated from cars and built specifically for cyclists.
How long does it take to cycle across the island?
A full end-to-end ride typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace and the route chosen.
Can you cycle the whole island in one day?
Absolutely. Many visitors complete a full loop in 4–5 hours, including photography and café stops.
Is the island flat or hilly?
It is almost completely flat, with only gentle rises. Perfect for beginners, families, and relaxed riding.
Are the paths suitable for kids?
Yes. Most cycle tracks are wide, safe, and away from traffic — but avoid windy days on the bridge.
Do you need a car on the Île de Ré?
No. You can cycle everywhere, and most villages are connected by dedicated paths.
Can you rent bikes easily?
Yes — there are bike rental shops in every major village and in La Rochelle before the bridge.
Can you cycle across the bridge?
Yes — there is a fully separated lane for bicycles. No toll for cyclists.
🚴 Best Cycling Routes on the Île de Ré
(Referenced in the videos)
1. La Rochelle → Pont de l’Île de Ré → Rivedoux
A perfect half-day trip for visitors arriving by train.
2. Rivedoux → Saint-Martin-de-Ré → Ars-en-Ré
The classic “village-hopping” route with cafés and coastal views.
3. Salt Marsh Loop
Quiet, beautiful, and ideal for photography or Insta360 footage.
4. Lighthouse Extension (Phare des Baleines)
The island’s most iconic ride — though not in your footage, it remains the top long-distance loop.
Watch Both Videos
Cycling Over the Pont de l’Île de Ré
Serious Cycling on the Île de Ré ?
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