Where does this tradition to put trousers on Ile de Ré donkeys come from?
Poitou donkeys were first brought to Ile de Ré by boat in around 1860. Used in former times for various tasks - salt harvesting, working in the vineyards and transporting merchandise in the villages - the donkeys were part of everyday life for the people of Ile de Ré.
The trousers, or "culotte" as they are traditionally named, protected the animal from flies and bites from the mosquitoes that were found in the salt marshes. The inhabitants usually dressed them in trousers with braces made from old pieces of fabric.
With the decline of traditional farming activities, the donkeys began to disappear. These donkeys have remained a feature of the island thanks to a handful of enthusiasts who found a way to convert them to serve the island's new prominent industry: tourism. That's why donkeys in trousers have today become an emblem of the island, and you're very likely to cross their paths many times!
A tradition that's become a passion, made in Ile de Ré
Régis Léau and his team offer rides on donkeys in trousers around a signposted circuit of around 400m in the Barbette park in St-Martin-de-Ré
Opening times :
Easter holidays 14.00 to 18.00 except Saturdays
July and August from 14.00 to 18.30 except Saturdays
October French school holidays from 14.30 to 18.00 except Saturdays
Tariffs: No advance reservations, pay on site, 4 € for one ride or 10 € for three tickets
From 3 years old
Find out more
Parc de la Barbette (near the port) 17410 Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Tel. : +33.(0)6 08 57 25 94 ane-en-culotte.com
If these pretty long-haired equines intrigue you, take the time to meet them during a stay on Ile de Ré. We can offer you holiday accommodation in and around St-Martin-de-Ré, as well as in nearby villages.
Holiday rental St-Martin-de-Ré Holiday rental La Flotte
Holiday rental Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré Holiday rental La Couarde-sur-Mer