Cycling weekend: La Loire à Vélo and panoramas, a rejuvenating getaway along the river
Set off on a gentle, friendly adventure along the Loire, where unspoilt nature, characterful villages and unique panoramas follow one another to your delight. Discover the treasures of this emblematic region by bike, for a weekend ideal for all lovers of wide open spaces and heritage.
You'll love
Pedal along the Loire and enjoy the enchanting landscapes this region has to offer.
Discover the Petites Cités de Caractère of Behuard and Champtoceaux, as well as the charming villages of Bouchemaine and Montjean-sur-Loire.
Admire the exceptional panoramic views over the Loire Valley from Mont Glonne and the medieval town of Champtoceaux.
Immerse yourself in the history and work of the poet Joachim du Bellay by visiting the museum dedicated to him in Liré.
Day 1 : From Angers to Chalonnes, between confluences and Petites Cités de Caractère
Morning: Cycling from Angers to Chalonnes
Once you've arrived in Angers by train, get on your bikes and set off to discover the riches of the Loire Valley. Ride along the banks of the royal river, and let yourself be seduced by the beauty of the landscapes that unfold before your eyes. Your first stop: Chalonnes-sur-Loire, a charming town in the heart of Anjou's vineyards, with its tufa-tiled houses and flower-filled streets.
Afternoon: Bouchemaine and Behuard, two Loire jewels
On your way, stop off at Bouchemaine, a confluence village ideal for outdoor activities. This haven of peace, where the Maine and Loire rivers meet, offers an idyllic setting for a stroll along the banks or a picnic break. Continue on to the Petite Cité de Caractère of Behuard, the only commune to be an island in the Loire. Take time to stroll through the narrow streets of this timeless village and admire its tuffeau houses with colorful shutters.
Accommodation ideas
Day 2 : From Chalonnes to Saint-Florent-le-Vieil, between seafaring villages and breathtaking views
Morning: From Chalonnes to Saint-Florent-le-Vieil by bike
Get back on your bike and cycle along the Loire towards Saint-Florent-le-Vieil, a village steeped in history and legend. This ancient port town, nestled in a meander of the river, has preserved its architectural heritage and seafaring traditions.
Afternoon: Montjean-sur-Loire and Mont Glonne, breathtaking panoramas
On your way to Montjean-sur-Loire, stop off at the small seaside village of Montjean-sur-Loire, which has preserved its authenticity and old-world charm. Discover its marina, fishermen's cottages and Romanesque church, before continuing on to Mont Glonne. Climb this wooded hill, which rises to an altitude of 98 meters, and enjoy an exceptional view of the Loire Valley between Angers and Nantes. On a clear day, you can even see the towers of Angers cathedral and Brissac castle.
Day 3 : From Ancenis to Liré and Champtoceaux, an immersion in history and poetry
Morning: Cycling from St-Florent to Ancenis
For this final day, head for Ancenis, where your return train awaits. Ride along the Loire and enjoy the region's enchanting landscapes one last time, before reaching the charming town of Ancenis, famous for its medieval castle and suspension bridge.
Restaurant ideas
Afternoon: Liré and Champtoceaux, a journey through time
On your way to Champtoceaux, make a detour to Liré to visit the Joachim du Bellay Museum, which invites you to discover the life and work of the 16th-century poet. Housed in the house where the writer was born, the museum traces his career and immerses you in the world of the Renaissance. Continue on to the medieval town of Champtoceaux, where a breathtaking panorama of the Loire Valley awaits you. Perched on a rocky outcrop, this ancient stronghold reveals its ramparts, cobbled streets and half-timbered houses, testimony to its rich historical past.
Eco-responsible accommodation for a stay in harmony with nature
To make the most of your cycling weekend along the Loire, we offer two accommodations with the Accueil Vélo label, guaranteeing services adapted to cyclists:
- La Maison d'hôtes Les Orkys, a charming residence nestled in the heart of a wooded park in Chalonnes-sur-Loire.
- Camping Eco-Loire, an eco-friendly campsite in St-Florent-le-Vieil, offering the ideal setting to recharge your batteries close to nature.
