The Loire by bike

The city warmly welcomes you into its historic neighbourhoods, with the heart of the city located on the famous Place Plum’: a place held dear to the Tourangeaux. Don’t forget to try out the local specialities at one of the many ‘guinguettes’ of the city: fried delicacies from the Loire or a ‘sandre (Zander fish) au beurre blanc’, accompanied by a cold glass of wine, just for you. Night in a B&B.

Momentarily step out of the Loire to reach the banks of the River Cher. Villandry awaits you, inviting you into its three-tier, terraced gardens. Next, part ways with the River Cher to take in a chateau built on the Ile de l’Indre: Azay-le-Rideau. Rejoin the Loire and discover the Château de Rigny-Ussé; a castle straight out of a fairytale and which is otherwise known as the Château of Sleeping Beauty. Next, head south towards Chinon, crossing the famous vineyards (which have been given AOC status), to arrive at a 12th century château which hosted the meeting of Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc) and the future King Charles VII. Don’t hesitate to taste the local wines, including Rabelais, which has been noted for its quality since the 16th century. Night in Chinon in a B&B.

After the previous day’s epicurean stage, hop back on your bike and head towards Candes St Martin, at the mouth of the Vienne and the Loire. If you are tempted by the thrill of a detour, you have the option to visit Fontevraud with its royal abbey, which is one of the largest in Europe. Constructed in 1101, the abbey was transformed over many centuries, from monastery to prison! You can also explore the extensive troglodytic cliffs, before arriving in Saumur; a town dominated by its majestic château… You are now in the capital of horseback riding,  so go and discover the Cadre Noir de Saumur at the National Equine School. You can also taste the celebrated Saumur Brut in of the many troglodytic caves of the town - you will be spoilt for choice! Night in Saumur in a B&B.

As you leave Saumur, ride along the left bank of the Loire. The rich architectural heritage transports you back in time: the dungeon and Roman church of Trèves, the Prieurial church in Cunault, the Gallo-Roman amphitheatre in Gennes…Continue along the levee and don’t miss a break in the superb village of Thoureil- this former barge port still houses many typical guinguettes. Switch over to the other river bank now to cross through ancient marshlands created by the levees along the River Loire. Next, leave the royal river and take the ferry across the Authion, passing the impressive Trélazé slate quarries to arrive in Angers, a city dominated by its imposing bi-colour château, overlooking the Maine. Night in Angers.

Leave the Maine to rejoin the Loire at the river mouth and the village of Bouchemaine. Then, enter the Angevine countryside, following along the river and its many islands. Take a welcome pause amongst beautiful sculptures in the village of Montjean. Then continue along the levee as far as St Florent le Vieil, the birthplace of Julien Gracq. Night in St Florent le Vieil.

With the Loire ever-present, you enter the Loire Atlantique at Ancenis, continuing on to reach the pretty village of Oudon. Riding on along cycle paths, between the hills and the Divatte levee, you quickly arrive in Nantes. As you are welcomed into the City of Dukes, be seduced by its many architectural, cultural and historical relics… Don’t miss the opportunity to get lost in its ports, go and say hello to the famous Elephant of the Ile des Machines, take a stroll through the covered passages and the medieval district of Bouffas. The Château of the Dukes of Brittany and the cathedral are also well worth a look… Night in Nantes in a hotel, on a B&B basis.

And we’re off again - hop back on your bike and let the Loire guide you to the Atlantic. Staying on the right bank, ride along the quays, taking in beautiful views of the Ile de Nantes and its harbour on the Loire. In Couëron, you board the Pellerin ferry to cross to the other side and rejoin the Canal de la Martinière.  With the St Nazaire bridge in your sights, rejoin the Loire Estuary and head south to reach the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. 
Night in a hotel in St Brévin, on a B&B basis.

End of trip after breakfast.