The French islands that inspire us
“We do not travel to escape ourselves, which is impossible, but to find ourselves.” Jean Grenier, Les Iles
Île d’Oléron: The Luminous
In his book Le roman d’un enfant, the writer Pierre Loti nicknamed the island “Oléron the Luminous,” due to its high level of sunshine. As the second-largest French island after Corsica, Oléron is located off the coast of Charente-Maritime. Connected to the mainland by a bridge since the 60s—though purists will prefer to travel there by boat from La Rochelle—the island offers a surprising variety of landscapes, ranging from dunes and pine forests to fine sandy beaches. The Île d’Oléron also boasts a breathtaking citadel and will obviously delight oyster lovers! Thanks to its many cycle paths, the island is also very well-suited for strolls.
Île de Ré: The most Parisian
The Île de Ré is adored by Parisians who flock there in large numbers every summer, eager to rediscover its unique setting. Spanning 85 km², the Île de Ré is the fourth-largest French island. Located in the Bay of Biscay, it is part of the Charentais archipelago and is a neighbor to the Île d’Oléron. Connected to the mainland by a bridge, the Île de Ré marvels with the richness of its heritage and its preserved nature. It also surprises with its numerous galleries, which are a delight for art lovers, and the variety of its water-based and sporting activities. But it is at sunset that Ré reveals its full beauty…
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Belle-Île: The precious one
Located in the Gulf of Morbihan, Belle-Île-en-Mer rises majestically off the coast of Quiberon. Belle-Île must be earned, and you can only reach it by boat! But the trip is well worth it, provided you venture off the beaten track. From the Vauban Citadel to the great Kervilahouen lighthouse, the 84 km² island is one of the largest in the Ponant and offers the possibility of countless cultural visits as well as unforgettable bike rides. Nature enthusiasts will not be disappointed, as Belle-Île is also a paradise for birds…
Porquerolles: The jewel of the Mediterranean
Heading to the Mediterranean with Porquerolles, a small island located off the Giens peninsula. It is one of the “Golden Islands” along with Port-Cros and the Île du Levant. With its fine sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Porquerolles is a paradise for lovers of the sea and scuba diving. More athletic types will prefer to venture onto one of the island’s many hiking trails, bordering cliffs or beaches amidst lush vegetation. Rich in numerous forts, a church, and an atypical lighthouse built in 1830, Porquerolles is also a delight for heritage lovers.
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Île d'Yeu: The little island full of magic
The Île d’Yeu is an island in the Bay of Biscay located in the Vendée region. You can get there by boat (or helicopter, for the more fortunate!). Although it measures only 23 km², the Île d’Yeu is of unparalleled richness. Between its numerous prehistoric remains and its Old Castle, the Île d’Yeu is an invitation to take a trip back in time and immerse yourself in a history full of mysteries and legends. A unique atmosphere reigns there, leaving no one indifferent.
Île de Noirmoutier
Like its little sister, the Île d’Yeu, Noirmoutier is located in the Bay of Biscay, connected to the mainland by a bridge and an amazing submersible causeway that can only be used at low tide! Nicknamed the "Island of Mimosas," Noirmoutier enjoys a particularly mild and pleasant climate. With its lush forests, dunes, and salt marshes, the Île de Noirmoutier offers unusual terrain and a picture-postcard setting. Its preserved nature makes it a great place for walks and picnics on the beach at sunset.
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