Ride the 1st section of the Loire a Vélo on this 7-day self-guided tour
Enjoy a mesmerizing cycling journey as you embark on the first section of the 800km Loire a Vélo (Loire Valley Cycling Route) riding from Nevers to Orléans. The 7-day self-guided Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans tour will guide you along the banks of France's oldest river as you explore medieval villages, enchanted castles, and beautiful wine regions.
The 800km long Loire a Vélo (Loire Valley Cycling Route) is a superb cycling route that starts in Cuffy and ends on the Atlantic Coast in Saint-Brevin-Les-Pins. The route that introduces riders to the best of the Loire Valley makes up the western section of the EV6 (Rivers Route), the trans-European cycle route that spans from France to Romania. The 7-day self-guided Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans tour will have you completing the 1st stage of the Loire a Vélo as you ride from Nevers to Orléans.
Easy and approachable cycling routes allow you to appreciate the Loire Valley's breathtaking landscapes. This self-guided tour grants you the freedom to stop where you please, enjoying the authentic villages and towns of Burgundy and the Centre-Val de Loire along the way.
Pedal towards the magnificent Romanesque church of Notre Dame via the oldest bridge of the Loire, a 16th-century masterpiece suspended above the river in Charité-Sur-Loire. Explore the medieval hilltop village of Sancerre and its renowned wine region, hopping off your bike to savour a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc paired with a rich Chavignol goat's cheese.
The allure of France's Loire Valley is yours to discover on this mesmerizing cycling tour. The only thing left to decide is when you'll go!
Highlights of the Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans
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Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
Your tour begins in the lovely Burgundian town of Nevers, situated on the timeless Loire River. Settle into your accommodations here, then set out to explore the charming town center.
Nevers faience pottery is famous worldwide and still produced here today, and you're likely to come across several potters during your walk around town. Some other must-sees in Nevers are the Nevers Cathedral and the Palais Ducal with its impressive renaissance façade.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Nevers
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Join the Loire Valley Cycling Route
This morning you’ll ride to the small village of Cuffy, at the confluence of the Loire and Allier rivers. The 800km Loire a Vélo (Loire Valley Cycling Route) begins here, and today you’ll commence on its first stage.
Enjoy a pleasant ride to the monastery town of Charité-sur-Loire, where you’ll pedal a 16th-century bridge to the spellbinding Notre Dame church, known as one of the most important Romanesque edifices in Burgundy.
Tonight, you’ll spend the evening in lovely Charité-sur-Loire, where spectacular food and wines from the local vineyards of Burgundy won’t disappoint.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Charité-sur-Loire
Distance: 45km, 26m of ascent, 57m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Cycle the Vineyards of Sancerre
Continue your route through the vast undulating vineyards that carpet the Loire Valley as you ride towards Sancerre this morning. Enjoy a quick stop in Pouilly-sur-Loire on your way to admire the beautiful bell tower of the village church.
Continue through lovely woods and sprawling fields to the famous wine region of Sancerre. Hop off your bikes and enjoy a crisp glass of the local Sauvignon Blanc paired with Chavignol goat’s cheese, a true afternoon delight! Ride to your hotel enjoying breathtaking views of the Loire Valley from your advantageous position in the medieval hilltop town of Sancerre.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Sancerre
Distance: 27km, 171m of ascent, 27m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Cycle the Canal Latéral to Briare
Depart Sancerre this morning via the Canal Latéral towards the flowery town of Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire, perched on the Loire’s right bank.
Continue to Elleville-sur-Loire and then Beaulieu-sur-Loire until you reach beautiful Briare.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Briare
Distance: 54km, 56m of ascent, 213m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Cycle to Sully-sur-Loire via Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire and Gien
This morning you’ll be invited to appreciate the Loire from a different perspective as you cross the river via the canal bridge, continuing to Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire. Then, ride on to the lively town of Gien, where you’ll explore the impressive castle of Anne de Beaujeu and an 18th-century 12-pillar bridge.
Press on to your destination for today, Sully-sur-Loire. The star of the town is a remarkable medieval castle, entirely encased by moats with the brilliant backdrop of the Loire River to perfect an already mesmerizing sight.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Sully-sur-Loire
Distance: 38km, 99m of ascent, 114m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Cycle to Orléans via Saint-Benoit and Chateauneuf-sur-Loire
Revel in the grand views of the valley this morning as you ride to Saint-Benoit, where you’ll want to hop off your bike to explore the 11th-century abbey situated here. Continue to the Chateauneuf-sur-Loire, once a vital port on the Loire in the 19th-century, before riding on to Orléans.
Known as the town of art and history, Orléans is a former royal city full of allure and charm. Stroll the pedestrian walkways of the old town, perusing the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered Renaissance houses. And spot Joan of Arc (who helped defend the city from invading British armies) lording triumphantly over the streets in the form of a grand statue. The city is also home to several museums, gardens, and churches, leaving you with plenty to see during your time here!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Orléans
Distance: 51km, 99m of ascent, 112m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Departure
Your cycling tour in the Loire Valley comes to an end this morning following breakfast. It is recommended you extend your time in Orléans by an extra night or two, allowing time to explore the remarkable town further.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
The departure is available on any day of the week. Prices below are per person:
Standard accommodation:
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Single room: $1,195 USD
- Sharing a double/twin room: $795 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $725 USD
Comfort Accommodation:
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Single room: $1,550 USD
- Sharing a double/twin room: $950 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $995 USD
Accommodation on the Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans tour
This tour is available with either standard or deluxe accommodations. Hotels and B&Bs on the standard tour are 2-star and 3-star and offer basic conveniences. Hotels and B&Bs on the deluxe tour are 3-star and 4-star and offer modern conveniences.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Standard Accommodation
Chambres d'Hotes Cote Parc-Cote Jardin in Nevers
This converted mansion built in 1936 has been artfully renovated and offers guests the perfect centrally located base for exploring Nevers.
Hôtel Mille et une Feuilles (La Charité sur Loire ★★★
Hôtel Mille et une Feuilles in La Charité-sur-Loire is a charming and cozy accommodation, offering guests a comfortable stay in the picturesque surroundings of La Charité-sur-Loire, showcasing local hospitality and tranquility.
Hôtel Le Panoramic (Sancerre) ★★★
Hôtel Le Panoramic in Sancerre is a cozy and picturesque accommodation, offering guests a comfortable stay and potentially showcasing scenic views of the surrounding vineyards and the beautiful landscape of Sancerre.
Hôtel Le Cerf in Briare ★★
Guests will find themselves welcomed into a warm, family-friendly environment at this hotel in Briare, which provides the perfect mix of comfort and value.
Hotel la Closeraie in Sully-sur-Loire ★★★
Sleep just a stone’s throw away from the Château de Sully sur Loir at this castlelike hotel located in a beautifully renovated 19th-century house.
Hôtel Oceania Orléans in Orléans ★★★
Guests will enjoy views of the Loire from this contemporary hotel featuring stylish, modern rooms and several great amenities including a 24-hour bar.
Deluxe Accommodations
Chambres d'Hotes Cote Parc-Cote Jardin in Nevers
This converted mansion built in 1936 has been artfully renovated and offers guests the perfect centrally located base for exploring Nevers.
Hôtel Mille et une Feuilles in La Charité sur Loire ★★★
Located centrally in the elegant Charité Sur Loire, this charming hotel features several unique amenities such as canoe rental. The hotel is located within walking distance of the historic district, making it the perfect base for a stroll of the town.
Hôtel Le Panoramic (Sancerre) ★★★
Hôtel Le Panoramic in Sancerre is a cozy and picturesque accommodation, offering guests a comfortable stay and potentially showcasing scenic views of the surrounding vineyards and the beautiful landscape of Sancerre.
Hôtel Domaine des Roches in Briare ★★★★
A lovely genteel hotel set in a 19th-century manor house that features an indoor pool and an excellent breakfast.
Hôtel Burgevin in Sully sur Loire ★★★
A former coaching in, turned charming hotel, sets the tone for this stately hotel located just a short walk from the famous Château de Sully-sur-Loire.
Empreinte Hôtel in Orleans ★★★★
Comfort and relaxation sets the tone at this deluxe and stylish hotel where you can treat yourself at the hotel spa or cozy up in the lounge.
What’s Included in the Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Nevers and after the tour in Orléans are not included but can be added as a supplement. You can also book ahead to extend your stay at any of the overnight locations along the route.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage are included throughout the tour (1 piece per person). Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
Also Included
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- Tourist information on all places of interest
- Tourist city tax
- 24/7 emergency phone support
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Guide services
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas is required
Optional Extras
- Bike rental
- Additional nights before, during, or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Deluxe hotel option
- Optional activities or excursions
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Frequently Asked Questions about Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans
With 25 years of experience running walking and biking tours in France, S-Cape France has a team full of energy and fresh ideas. Their multinational team can assist in various languages, and their large collection of itineraries means you’ll be able to find your dream adventure in France.
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