Canoeing on the Île de Ré: 5 must-see spots for cruising between sea and nature

Slow Village, an open-air hotel on the Île de Ré, invites you to slow down and discover the island in a different way, from the water. Gliding along its salt marshes, peaceful canals and wild coastline in a canoe is like letting yourself be carried away by the wind, the sun's reflection on the water and the birdsong. Each trip becomes an interlude where time seems suspended, and nature reveals itself in all its simplicity and beauty.

Go with the flow and discover the Ile de Ré at the pace of slow tourism.

5 must-see canoeing spots on the Île de Ré

Things to know before you go:

• The recommended loop lasts 1 to 2 hours and is suitable for beginners.
• The best times to enjoy the peace and quiet are early morning or late afternoon.
• Don't forget to check the weather conditions and your level for a pleasant ride.

Slow tip: let your eyes wander over the traditional sailboats and barques, take time to breathe in the salt air and, why not, stop for a few minutes to simply listen to the life around you.

3 km from our open-air hotel in Saint-Martin de Ré.

Loix to Rivedoux: a sporting loop and marine panoramas

Canoeing on the Ile de Ré from Loix to Rivedoux delivers a blend of effort and contemplation. As you canoe along open shores, you'll contemplate salt marshes and coasts bathed in light, while feeling the wind on your face. This longer trip lets you discover the island from a different angle.

Things to know before you go:

• Allow 2 to 3 hours for this loop, which is suitable for intermediates.
• Check tide and wind conditions for safe and enjoyable sailing.
• Don't forget your sunglasses, something to drink and a snack for a break along the way.

Slow tip: take a break in the middle of the loop to listen to the silence, observe the flying species and breathe in the sea air. Let your gaze roam the horizon and savor this unique blend of movement and contemplation, the signature of a true slow tourism experience on the Île de Ré.

13 km from our open-air hotel.

Things to know before you go:

• The routes are easy and accessible to all levels, perfect for a leisurely outing.
• Avoid peak tourist times to enjoy the calm and reflections in the water.
• Take along a water bottle and a small snack to enjoy the walk at your own pace.

Slow tip: take the time to photograph the reflections, watch the birds and be surprised by the small details of the village as seen from this canoe trip on the Ile de Ré. Let your senses guide your discovery, away from the hustle and bustle, to the rhythm of your paddle strokes.

15 km from our open-air hotel.

The Marais de Loix: an immersion in unspoilt nature

To glide along the calm waters of the Marais de Loix is to enter a world where nature reigns supreme. Between winding canals and stretches of salt marsh, you'll come across herons, egrets and avocets, adding a touch of poetry to your stroll. The soft light of morning or late afternoon reveals silver reflections on the water, offering a silent, soothing spectacle.

Things to know before you go:

• Choose low or medium tide for easy navigation through all the canals.
• The classic loop takes 1 to 2 hours and is suitable for beginners.
• Don't forget your safety vest, something to drink and a cap to make the most of the ride.

Slow tip: pack a picnic lunch and let yourself be lulled by the silence of the marsh, observing every animal movement. Take time to breathe, look around and feel fully immersed in this canoe trip on the Ile de Ré.

16 km from our open-air hotel.

Saint-Clément-des-Baleines: between beaches and dunes

At Saint-Clément-des-Baleines, canoeing on the Ile de Ré becomes an invitation to discover the island's wildest coastal landscapes. You'll glide along deserted beaches, skim over blond dunes and glimpse the famous lighthouse in the distance, a silent sentinel of the ocean. The gentle wind on your face and the discreet sound of the waves create a rare sensation of freedom, far from the hustle and bustle of the tourist trails.

Things to know before you go:

• This course is suitable for experienced beginners and intermediates, as the wind and current can vary.
• Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the walk and the panoramic views.
• Don't forget binoculars for birdwatching and, weather permitting, near-shore marine life.

Slow tip: take a break on a secluded beach, let your feet brush against the sand and listen to the surf. Let time suspend your movements and your thoughts, and fully savor this encounter with the island's raw nature.

19 km from our open-air hotel.

Discovering the Île de Ré by canoe means slowing down, letting your senses guide your every move and rediscovering the simple pleasure of nature. Between salt marshes, secret canals, deserted beaches and picturesque villages, every outing becomes a soothing interlude where time seems suspended.

To extend this experience of slow tourism, our open-air hotel welcomes you in a natural setting, where comfort and tranquility combine to make your stay a true immersion in the island's softness. Glide along the stream, breathe, contemplate... and let Île de Ré reveal its treasures to you!