Les ânes en culottes

A stay at Camping Les Varennes wouldn’t be complete without greeting our famous local symbol!

Don’t miss the ‘Donkeys in Trousers’! An authentic and cultural outing that will enchant the entire family during your stay on the Île de Ré.

Come and discover the Poitou donkey and this unique tradition:

• Meet and pet the donkeys: Come and admire this iconic breed, easily recognizable by its long brown shaggy coat and big ears.
• Discover a local tradition from the Île de Ré: Learn why, historically, the donkeys were dressed in striped or checkered trousers to protect them from mosquito bites in the salt marshes.
• Souvenir photo stop: A must-do to capture the iconic souvenir photo of your holiday on the island!
• Shop and donkey milk products: Take home handmade soaps that are very gentle on the skin, or a cute cuddly toy for the children.

An easy and pleasant bike ride from our campsite in Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré to discover the island’s living heritage!