Planning a group holiday in France? Ile de Ré is one of the best-kept secrets on the Atlantic coast — and finding a large house that sleeps 10 or more can make all the difference between a good holiday and an unforgettable one.
Why Ile de Ré is Perfect for Group Holidays
While the Côte d’Azur gets all the attention, Ile de Ré offers something quite different: Atlantic beaches, 138 km of cycle routes listed by the official tourist office, fresh oysters straight from the producer, and a relaxed pace of life that feels a world away from the tourist crowds. It’s the kind of place where everyone in the group can do their own thing — morning yoga on the beach, a bike ride to the lighthouse, or a quiet morning at the market — and come together around the same table later.
Why One Large House Beats Several Small Rentals
When you’re travelling as a group of 8, 10 or 12, splitting into separate apartments means you’re never truly together. Different check-in times, different locations, no shared space for meals. A large house changes everything: shared breakfasts in a proper kitchen, evenings in the lounge or on a small patio, and enough bedrooms for different family rhythms. It can also simplify the stay compared with booking multiple smaller properties.
Getting to Ile de Ré from the UK
La Rochelle is the usual gateway to Ile de Ré, with rail, road and seasonal air connections. Flight routes change, so check the airport or airline timetable for your dates. From La Rochelle, continue across the bridge by car, coach or pre-booked transfer. Ferry-and-drive routes through northern France are another option for travellers bringing a car.
Things to Do as a Group
Cycle the island — the official Destination Ile de Ré Tourist Office lists 138 km of cycle routes. You can ride between villages, salt marshes and vineyards. Bikes are available at the house.
Oyster tasting — visit a local oyster farmer in La Flotte and taste the famous Ile de Ré oysters with your feet in the water and a glass of cold white wine.
Saint-Martin-de-Ré — the island’s capital is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a stunning Vauban citadel, harbour cafés and artisan shops.
Phare des Baleines — climb 257 steps for a breathtaking 360° view of the Atlantic. A must-do for everyone in the group.
8 Montamer: The Ideal Group Holiday Home
8 Montamer in Sainte-Marie-de-Ré sleeps 12 guests in 6 bedrooms with 4 bathrooms. Crucially for two families, those bedrooms form two separate three-bedroom sleeping areas. The kitchen, lounges and small private patio are shared, bikes are available, and Montamer Beach is 400 metres away.
Rated 5/5 on Airbnb, it’s the perfect base for a multi-family holiday or a week with friends. Book early for summer — large houses on Ile de Ré go fast.
Practical Tips
Best time to visit: June and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds. July and August are busiest but the island handles it well. Budget: Split between 8-12 people, the cost per head is very reasonable — use Splitwise or a shared pot for groceries and meals out. Book early: Large properties get snapped up months in advance, especially for school holidays.