Wherever you are on Ile de Ré, you are not far from a picture postcard beach. However, the southern side of this small island is where the best beaches are considered to be, and this one is one of the prettiest—and most popular.
A very gorgeous seven kilometres of gently shelving fine white sand with clear blue water, and a lovely village that’s surrounded by vineyards and forest. The beach is patrolled by lifeguards in the summer.
For something quieter, head for La Plage de la Conche between Les Portes and St Clements. At the edge of the Trousse-Chemise Pine Forest, it’s a spot popular with artists.