Welcome to How I Holiday, a series of travel stories and recommendations shared by friends of Urban List from Aotearoa and Australia.
Legendary French-Australian chef Guillaume Brahimi's signature series Plat Du Tour dropped on SBS this month—honouring the authentic culinary style of the 21 stages and regions of the Tour De France. Naturally, the chef was the best person to share his recommendations for Île de Ré—the stunning island off the West Coast of France, where his best memories include leisurely bike trips and good food. Here, Guillaume shares why this isolated slice of paradise is worth adding to your travel bucket list.
Why is Île de Ré special to you?
Île de Ré is special to me because it’s one of the most beautiful small islands on the West Coast of France with the most amazing produce. I discovered it about 15 years ago when a friend of mine got a house there, and I love going there. It’s a beautiful part of the world where there are no cars, and you travel by bicycle.
What are your favourite venues in Île de Ré?
The local markets are unbelievable, and there aren’t many restaurants. The idea is that when you’re there, you go to the market to pick up some fresh produce, go to the bakery for some bread and cook a beautiful meal at home.
What's a core memory you have from Île de Ré?
The best days I have had there are getting in from the water, hopping on the bike, going to the market and buying some amazing seafood that had just been caught the day before. Then, obviously, stopping by the bakery to have some beautiful bread and maybe a croissant for the ride home and cooking with some friends with a nice glass of wine, like a Chablis.
Where should people eat, drink, stay and play in Île de Ré?
When we’re there, we don’t go out often. The perfect way to spend your time here is to get a house or Airbnb and entertain at home with your friends and family. The best location to visit is the market. For those who love hotels, Relais & Châteaux and The Villa Clarisse are both beautiful hotels and lovely places to stay.
What's the best meal you've ever had in Île de Ré?
Sea Bass and Oysters fresh from the markets, cooked at home with the best seasonal produce from the markets as well.
What's the best event on Île de Ré's cultural calendar?
June and July are the best times of year to visit for a great summer holiday. There are lots of Parisians with holiday houses who visit the Île de Ré. The best date to be there for is Bastille Day on the 14th of July, when everyone is in a great mood.
You Might Also Like
How I Holiday: Chasing Waves And Creative Inspiration In Bali With The Founder Of Gentle Habits
Sophie Marshall, founder of stunning scent and lifestyle label Gentle Habits, fell in love with Bali on a solo trip at 17 years old, where she hit the island's clubs. Now, her holidays look a little bit different, hitting the surf and seeking inspiration with her kids in tow.
How I Holiday: Fresh From A Hobart Holiday, Sofia Levin Shares Where To Sip And Snack
The Masterchef judge shares the spots that make her feel at home: a permanently parked food truck where she enjoyed one of her most memorable meals, and a unique 10-seat fine-dining kaiseki restaurant inside a luxury car showroom.
How I Holiday: Beluga Caviar And Vintage Chanel—An Interior Architect’s Paris Picks
Claire Perini of Composition Showroom has our dream job—scouring the world for precious vintage finds that tell stories about life and love.