Onderweg met hond op Île de Ré

The way to explore the island. Dogs ride in baskets, front carriers or dedicated bike trailers, all widely available at the island's many rental shops. Small dogs travel in a basket; larger dogs in a trailer or cart. This is completely normal here and shops will fit a basket or trailer to your rental.

The 3 km bridge from La Rochelle is the only road link, crossed by car in about ten minutes. Dogs travel free in your own vehicle. A return toll is charged per car (reduced off-season); there is no separate charge for pets. Expect summer queues at the bridge approach on changeover days.

The Rébus network links the island villages and runs across the bridge to La Rochelle station (line 3). Small dogs in a closed carrier travel free; larger dogs without a carrier are at the driver's discretion and not guaranteed, so the bike or car is the safer plan for a big dog. Useful as a back-up if you arrive by train at La Rochelle without a car.