Hear the sound of the ocean as you sip your morning coffee on the pretty terrace looking out towards the bay - this delightful beach house enjoys a wonderful setting within walking distance to the picturesque village of Les Portes-en-Re. Villa Spartina is perfect for care-free holidays by the sea. Theres a relaxed vibe across this five-bedroom home which is ideal for a large family or a group of good friends. The spacious and characterful living-dining room is filled with light whilst the contemporary kitchen is perfectly equipped to prepare meals for everyone. Step outside into the courtyard for al-fresco meals by the barbecue on warm summer evenings. The five bright bedrooms and four modern bathrooms are scattered across three annexes, each accessed via the central courtyard. A range of doubles, twins and even bunk-beds, all across the ground floor, means there is space for up to twelve guests in this welcoming abode. Enjoy a sundowner in the privacy of your courtyard with its romantic covered terrace and al-fresco dining area or venture out to the vast garden that stretches as far as the beach at the very end. Let off steam in the spacious grounds with the sight and sound of the sea, then clamber over the plants and rocks to a glorious stretch of coastline with magnificent northern views. Even in the height of the summer you may be fortunate enough to only spot a neighbour or passer-by in this relatively uncrowded corner of Les Portes-en-Re – it really is a remarkable place. You can easily stroll into the village, around 1km away, for your morning bread and pastries as well as a daily summer market and a nice selection of local shops. Hire bikes for every age, play volleyball or tennis, try out some of the watersports at Plage du Gros Jonc or cycle a little further south for golf close to the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve. Look out for the enchanting cabin selling wines, beers and Trousse Chemise oysters to devour whilst looking over the salt marshes and wetland. Also close by is the great beach and lighthouse at Conche des Baleines, reached by cycling through the pine forests, or head south to one of Frances ‘Plus Beaux Villages, Ars-en-Re, for another charming market and vibrant village atmosphere. Look out for kite-surfers at Rivedoux-Plage, discover yet more historic markets at villages such as La Flotte or taste award-winning ice-cream in the historic town of Saint-Martin-de-Re. Just like the island itself, Villa Spartina is all about authenticity and charm in beautiful surroundings. #### Features Villa Interiors (180m2) Main Part of Villa - Living-dining area with fireplace - Kitchen, well-equipped including dishwasher, fridge, electric hob (x2), gas hob (x2), electric oven, microwave, coffee maker, toaster and mixer - Utility room - Access to central courtyard Annexe 1 - Bedroom with twin beds (90cm each) - Shower room with double sinks - WC - Dorm-style bedroom with one set of bunk-beds and two single beds (80cm each, top-bunk only for children aged 6+) Annexe 2 - Bedroom with double bed (160x200cm) - Shower room with double sinks and WC Annexe 3 - Bedroom with twin beds (90cm each) and shower room with sink - WC - Bedroom with double bed (140cm) and shower room with sink Outside Grounds (4000m2) - Garden/grounds (partially unenclosed, leading to beach) - Terrace with ocean view - Internal courtyard - Al-fresco dining area - BBQ - Sun-loungers and garden furnishings - Outdoor shower Facilities - Wi-Fi - Heating - Satellite TV (French channels only) - Hi-Fi - Telephone - Washing machine #### Location Villa Spartina is located just outside Les Portes-en-Re in the north-west of the island, around 46km from La Rochelle and reached via the 3km-long toll bridge that connects Ile de Re to the French mainland. In a semi-residential area (the driveway is partially shared with a neighbour) with a rural feel, guests have the privilege of being able to walk out to the end of the grounds, over the rocks and on to the wild beach. This part of the coastline is stunning – a mixture of rocks and sand and even in high season it isnt usually as crowded as some of the other beaches around this part of the island. You are also close to forests of pine trees which are wonderful for walking and cycling. Follow the trails all the way across to Conche des Baleines, a beautiful beach popular with surfers. At the western end, around 6km from your villa, you will reach the superb lighthouse, Phare des Baleines, as well as its museum and tower. Climb to the very top and gaze at the tremendous views around you. The pretty village of Les Portes-en-Re is within walking distance – within 1km you will be in the main square which hosts a market every summer morning selling all sorts of wonderful produce including the famous Trousse-Chemise oysters. Explore flower filled lanes, discover delightful shops and a small handful of cafes and restaurants. Watersport lovers can try out some activities at the main beach, Plage du Gros Jonc, around a 20-minute walk away. Bike hire is available in the village, a fantastic way to explore this part of the island and beyond. Heading south, cycle to the Lilleau des Niges Nature Reserve, an ideal place for wildlife lovers as you wander or bike across the wetland and salt marshes, the home to a number of rare species of migrating birds. The golf course is near here, Golf de Trousse Chemise, or if you prefer then find one of the superb sandy beaches or walk out into the bay when the tidal conditions allow you to at the incredible Banc du Bucheron. Outside of Les Portes-en-Re there are so many other lovely villages and towns to explore. Ars-en-Re (9km) is one of Frances classified ‘Plus Beaux Villages and an enchanting place to visit with its twice weekly market, charming village centre and watersport opportunities. Further east, La Flotte (28km) also hosts an historic market whilst those seeking yet more watersports should try out kite-surfing at one of the many beaches including famous Rivedoux-Plage (33km) – watch the kite-surfers as you arrive over the toll bridge. The islands main town, Saint-Martin-de-Re (24km) is another great day out. A tourist hot spot, visitors flock to learn about the towns history with its fortresses, enjoy a lunch by the harbour and then queue up for an ice-cream at La Martiniere (try the salted-caramel using the islands own fleur de sel).