La Rochelle and Île de Ré: the perfect van escape for wild beaches

Discover a road trip between a lively port city and untouched nature, where the wild beaches of Île de Ré await. Ideal for van and motorhome lovers seeking adventure and breathtaking landscapes.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 29 September 2026

Between the maritime buzz of La Rochelle and the tranquil dunes of Île de Ré, this corner of Charente-Maritime is a gem for van and motorhome travellers. Here, you can switch between cultural visits, endless cycling trails and swims on beaches where the wind reigns supreme. Ready to hit the road?

Vieux Port de La Rochelle

The historic heart of the city, this bustling port charms visitors with its two iconic towers and café terraces. A must-visit to soak up the maritime atmosphere before setting off.

Where to sleep nearby

La ferme du Grand Chemin Campsite ★ 4.9 4.9/5-rated campsite 5 km away, spacious pitches with electricity. Direct bike access to the centre (20 min). › Aire automatisée de Port-Neuf Motorhome area ★ 4 Wooded area with 116 pitches, 31 min walk, all services included (water, electricity, Wi-Fi). €15/night, close to the centre by bus. › Quiet parking near harbour office L'Houmeau Parking ★ 4.3 Free seaside parking with views of the Île de Ré bridge. Quiet, 6 min drive (6 km). › Quiet parking near the beach Aytré Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking 100 m from the beach, in a quiet cul-de-sac. 32 min walk, cycling paths to La Rochelle. › Shaded parking near ring road La Rochelle Parking ★ 5 Free shaded parking, 5 min drive (4 km). Near the Île de Ré bridge and Chef de Baie beach. ›

Aquarium La Rochelle

One of Europe’s largest private aquariums, home to over 12,000 marine creatures. Perfect for an educational and immersive break, even on grey days.

Where to sleep nearby

La ferme du Grand Chemin Campsite ★ 4.9 5 km from La Rochelle, 5-6 spacious pitches with electricity. 4.9 rating, bike access via cycle path. › Aire automatisée de Port-Neuf Motorhome area ★ 4 116 wooded pitches, full services (water, electricity, Wi-Fi). €15/night, 34 min walk to the centre. › Quiet parking near the beach Aytré Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking 100-200 m from the beach, in a quiet cul-de-sac. 26 min walk, cycling paths to La Rochelle. › Quiet parking near harbour office L'Houmeau Parking ★ 4.3 Free seaside parking with views of the Île de Ré bridge. 7 min drive, very quiet out of season. › Oyster farm motorhome area Angoulins Motorhome area ★ 3.4 €10/night in season, free out of season. 6 min drive, 6 min walk to the beach. ›

Phare des Baleines

Perched at the northern tip of Île de Ré, this lighthouse offers sweeping ocean views and the surrounding wild beaches. Climb its 250 steps for a 360-degree panorama.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping les Baleines Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star eco campsite in a natural setting, direct beach and coastal path access. 7 min walk to the lighthouse, 4.6 rating. › Camping Huttopia Ars-en-Ré Campsite ★ 4.5 Charming forest campsite, 50 m from the beach. 5 min drive, 4.5 rating. › Quiet parking facing the sea Ars-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.4 Free seaside parking, max 6 spaces. 6 min drive, 4.4 rating. › Beach parking Saint-Clément-des-Baleines Parking ★ 4.2 Free parking by the beach, very quiet. 22 min walk, 4.2 rating. › Camping le Cormoran Campsite ★ 4.4 5-star luxury campsite 100 m from the beach, heated pool. 5 min drive, 4.4 rating. ›

Plage de la Conche des Baleines

One of Île de Ré’s most beautiful beaches, wild and untouched, ideal for a swim or a coastal walk. The dunes and stone pines create an idyllic setting.

Where to sleep nearby

Beach parking Saint-Clément-des-Baleines Parking ★ 4.2 Free parking 30 m from the beach, ultra-quiet out of season. 13 min walk. › Camping les Baleines Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star eco-label campsite in a natural setting, direct beach access. 26 min walk, 4.6 rating. › Camping Huttopia Ars-en-Ré Campsite ★ 4.5 Charming forest campsite in a pine wood, 50 m from the beach. 25 min walk, 4.5 rating. › Gated parking near the beach Les Portes-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking by the beach (20-50 m), very quiet. 5 min drive. › Camping Eden Villages L'Océan & Spa - Île de Ré Campsite ★ 4.4 5-star campsite with spa and direct beach access. 7 min drive, 4.4 rating. ›

Réserve naturelle de Lilleau des Niges

A haven for migratory birds, accessible on foot or by bike from Saint-Clément-des-Baleines. Perfect for observing nature without disturbing it.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Bois Henri IV Campsite ★ 4.6 Wooded campsite 200 m from the beach, spacious and shaded pitches. 4.6 rating (5 km drive). › Camping les Baleines Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star eco-label campsite, direct beach and coastal path access. 4.6 rating (4 km drive). › 30 Route du Champ Cloppe, Les Portes-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking by the sea wall, public toilets and beach nearby. 16 min walk. › Loix marsh parking La Patache Parking ★ 4.6 Wild parking by the marshes, ideal for wildlife spotting. 4.6 rating, 45 min walk. › Market parking Ars-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.2 Shaded parking in the town centre, near shops and the port. Closed 6:00-16:00 from April to September, 30 min walk. ›

Saint-Martin-de-Ré

A village listed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages, encircled by Vauban ramparts. Its cobbled streets and fishing port are well worth a visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Les Pins Campsite ★ 4.6 Family-friendly campsite near the market and beach. 6 motorhome pitches, 4.6 rating (33 min walk). › Motorhome area with no height limit Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré Motorhome area ★ 4.5 Free parking by the beach, toilets 50 m away. Welcomes vans and motorhomes (45 min walk). › 2 Rue des Marais, La Flotte Parking ★ 4.6 Parking by the sea with ocean views and flat access. Free out of season (5 min drive). › Camping Municipal LE REMONDEAU Campsite ★ 4.5 Municipal seaside campsite, direct beach access. Modern facilities (6 min drive). › Camping Saint Martin de Ré Campsite ★ 4.1 Municipal campsite 10 min from the port and 1 km from the beach. 115 shaded pitches (5 min walk). ›

See all spots on the map