Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast

Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival

Your tour begins in the beautiful town of Saumur, nestled in the heart of the Anjou Vineyards. This medieval masterpiece is a fitting start for your grand tour of the Loire Valley.

If your arrival time permits, set out on foot to explore the town, making sure to take in the magnificent Château de Saumur that towers proudly above the town and overlooks the Loire Valley.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Saumur
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Ride to St-Mathurin-sur-Loire and Sail to Angers

Your cycling tour of the Loire Valley begins today with a pleasant ride along the Loire’s southern bank. Take in the picturesque church in Cunault and St-Maur Abbey as you ride into St-Mathurin-sur-Loire.

Then, tracing the northern bank of the Loire, you’ll navigate a former swamp, long since drained (in the middle ages!) towards the ferry dock on the Authion River. Hop off your bike and set sail for Angers, known as the historical capital of Anjou.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Angers
Distance: 59km, 192m of ascent, 190m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Cycle the River Maine and the Vineyards of Savennières

Depart Angers this morning via a serene park-like setting, following the banks of the river Maine until you reach Bouchemaine, well known for its excellent restaurants and idyllic picnic spots. Continue to hug the river, and to the west, you’ll begin to see the sprawling vineyards of avennières and Coteaux du Layon.

Then, crossing the island of Chalonnes, you’ll reach the hilltop village of Montjean-sur-Loire, where you’ll soak up some incredible views of the valley before pressing on to Florent-le-Vieil.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Florent-le-Vieil
Distance: 51km, 79m of ascent, 98m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Cycle Mont Glonne, Champtoceaux, and Mauves-sur-Loire to Nantes

If you think the views of the Loire couldn’t possibly get any better on this tour, your perspective from Mont Glonne today will debunk that! Enjoy sensational views of the Loire this morning before setting off for the fortified town of Champtoceaux. It’s here, where the Loire-Atlantique begins, that you’ll start to notice the influence of the Atlantic Ocean on the landscape.

Continuing the route, you’ll take in the Muscadet vineyards as you ride through Mauves-sur-Loire. The outline of the Loire’s largest and most vibrant town, Nantes, will soon come into view. Pedal towards your accommodations in Nantes, where you’ll spend a magical evening.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Nantes
Distance: 56km, 40m of ascent, 52m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Cycle the Martinière Canal to Paimboeuf and St-Brevin-les-Pins

Ride to Le Pellerin this morning relying on the Martinière canal as your steadfast guide. Then, continue the route via quiet country roads to Paimboeuf, where you’ll briefly join the coastal route known as Velodyssey. It’s here you’ll begin to take note of the influence of the strong currents and tides of the ocean making their mark on the Loire.

With your eyes set on the coast, continue to St-Brevin-Les-Pins, the lovely seaside resort perched on the Atlantic that you’ll call home this evening.

Just as Saumur was a fitting beginning for this tour, so too is St-Brevin-les-Pins a fitting end. The beautiful town boasts long stretches of golden beach backed by enchanting pine forests. Enjoy a farewell dinner tonight in this charming location and share a toast to the completion of your cycling adventure in the Loire Valley!
Overnight Location: Hotel in St-Brevin-les-Pins
Distance: 58km
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Departure

This morning following breakfast, you’ll return to Saumur by train and depart for the airport.
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast