The Loire à Vélo is one of France’s most beloved long-distance bike routes, stretching 800 kilometers through the heart of the Loire Valley. The route follows the majestic Loire River, passing through charming towns and cities, including Tours, Angers, and Nantes, offering cyclists a chance to explore both the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region. The trail is well-marked and accessible, suitable for cyclists of all levels, from beginners to experienced riders, with a mix of paved and gravel surfaces.
As you cycle along the Loire à Vélo, you’ll experience diverse landscapes, from the lush vineyards of the Vouvray region to the dramatic cliffs near Saumur, home to beautiful castles and châteaux. The route is not only about scenic views; it’s steeped in history, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Château de Chambord and the Château de Chenonceau, which cyclists can visit along the way. The trail is also home to rich wildlife, with sections passing through wetlands and forests, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life.
One of the most notable features of the Loire à Vélo is its accessibility. The trail is designed to be bike-friendly, with plenty of services for cyclists, including bike repair stations, rest stops, and bike-friendly accommodations. It is also well-suited for electric bikes in some sections, allowing for a more relaxed ride through the undulating terrain. While most sections are flat and easy to navigate, some areas, particularly near the vineyards and châteaux, can be slightly more challenging.
The Loire Valley is known for its fine wines and local cuisine, and cyclists on the Loire à Vélo can enjoy plenty of opportunities to stop for tastings, local markets, and charming cafés along the way. The trail also offers plenty of educational opportunities, with signs providing information about the region’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Whether you’re a passionate cyclist or just looking for a scenic and cultural ride, the Loire à Vélo offers a one-of-a-kind journey through one of France’s most stunning and historically rich regions.
Photos
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- One of many sights along the trail.
Suggested Lodging
Suggested Lodging Along the Loire à Vélo 1. Hôtel de la Gare • Description: A welcoming hotel located near the Loire River in Tours, offering comfortable rooms with great views and a perfect location for cyclists. • Website: Hôtel de la Gare - https://www.hotel-gare-tours.fr/ 2. Château de Nitray • Description: A beautiful historic château in the Loire Valley, offering bed-and-breakfast-style accommodations with the opportunity to explore the local vineyards. • Website: Château de Nitray - https://www.chateaudenitray.com/ 3. Camping La Croix Couverte • Description: Located in Amboise, this campsite offers an excellent base for cyclists to explore the Loire à Vélo trail, with a variety of accommodation options including pitches and mobile homes. • Website: Camping La Croix Couverte - https://www.campingloire.com/ 4. Auberge de la Source • Description: A charming guesthouse in Chitenay, offering a peaceful retreat with beautiful gardens and delicious local cuisine. • Website: Auberge de la Source - https://www.aubergedelasource.com/ Booking.comSuggested Dining
Suggested Dining Along the Loire à Vélo
1. Le Moulin de Monjardin
• Description: A lovely riverside restaurant in Tours, offering traditional French cuisine with locally sourced ingredients, perfect for cyclists needing a hearty meal.
• Website: Le Moulin de Monjardin - https://www.moulindemonjardin.com/
2. La Cave à Vins
• Description: A wine bar and restaurant located in Amboise, serving fine local wines paired with delicious regional dishes.
• Website: La Cave à Vins - https://www.lacaveavins-amboise.com/
3. Le Relais de la Source
• Description: Located in Chenonceaux, this restaurant serves classic French dishes with a focus on seasonal, local ingredients.
• Website: Le Relais de la Source - https://www.relaisdelasource.com/
Suggested Bike Rental / Repair
Suggested Bike Rental and Repair Along the Loire à Vélo
1. Loire Vélo Nature
• Description: Offering bike rentals and repair services along the Loire à Vélo, with delivery options to accommodations for added convenience.
• Website: Loire Vélo Nature - https://www.loirevelonature.com/
2. Cycling in Loire Valley
• Description: A bike rental service offering high-quality bikes and repair services for cyclists exploring the Loire à Vélo.
• Website: Cycling in Loire Valley - https://www.cycling-loire-valley.com/
Companies That Provide Tours on This Trail
Tour Companies Along the Loire à Vélo
1. Discover France
• Description: A company offering guided and self-guided bike tours along the Loire à Vélo, including accommodation and bike rentals.
• Website: Discover France - https://www.discoverfrance.com/
2. France Vélo Tourisme
• Description: Specializing in cycling tours through France, they offer a variety of packages, including along the Loire à Vélo, with accommodations and support services.
• Website: France Vélo Tourisme - https://www.francevelotourisme.com/
