Île de Ré

The island's capital, ringed by UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications, is built around an almond-shaped harbour lined with terraces. The ramparts, quays and lanes can be freely explored on lead, and many cafes welcome dogs on their terraces.

Listed among the most beautiful villages in France, Ars is spotted from afar by its black and white church spire, once a seamark for sailors. The harbour, the hollyhock-lined alleys and the neighbouring salt marshes make an ideal on-lead walk, morning market included.

At the island's western tip, this 57-metre lighthouse has watched over the Atlantic since 1854. Dogs cannot climb the tower, but the esplanade, the neighbouring old tower and the coastal path running past the ancient fish locks make a superb on-lead walk.

138 km of cycle paths link the ten villages through vines, marshes and pine woods. Bike hire shops offer dog baskets and trailers: it is THE way to explore the island with a pet, far from cars.

This immense curve of sand backed by the Lizay state forest is the wildest beach on the island. Dogs are welcome outside the supervised bathing zones; in summer, respect the time restrictions posted at the beach entrances.

In the heart of the Fier d'Ars, this reserve managed by the LPO bird charity hosts tens of thousands of migratory birds. Dogs are banned, even on lead, to protect the wildlife: skirt it via the marsh cycle path, where your dog enjoys the scenery without disturbing anything.