Loire Valley Cycle Route: Tours to St. Nazaire

Arrive in Tours. As one of the gateway cities to this renowned region of France, Tours boasts a perfect blend of the old and the new, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a tapestry of centuries-old heritage while indulging in contemporary delights.

The Cher River, a tributary of the Loire, serves as a picturesque pathway leading you directly to the enchanting Villandry Castle, celebrated for its terraced gardens. A visit to these renowned gardens is an absolute must for any traveller. These meticulously designed grounds feature shaded walkways, charming flower-lined arbours, graceful fountains, and an artistically cultivated vegetable garden, leaving every visitor in awe.

Continuing your journey a few kilometres downstream along the Loire's tranquil banks, you'll encounter the next historical gem: Langeais Castle. A mere glance from the fortified tower, which was exclusively dedicated to military purposes, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the meandering river and the captivating surrounding countryside.

Navigating through quaint villages and scenic side roads, your route ultimately leads to today's destination, Chinon. This charming town leaves an indelible impression on visitors with its imposing castle complex, an emblem of medieval grandeur that dominates the landscape. Chinon promises an unforgettable experience, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge along the banks of the majestic Loire River.

Leaving behind the medieval charm of Chinon's winding alleys, your journey now takes you along the tranquil banks of the Vienne River toward the picturesque village of Candes-Saint-Martin. Here, a delightful stroll through the village streets leads you to the hill's summit, where an awe-inspiring vista awaits, showcasing the magnificent confluence of the Vienne and Loire waterways.

As you continue your route towards today's final destination, you'll encounter a truly remarkable highlight. The cycling path guides you directly through the legendary rock dwellings of Souzey, an experience that immerses you in history and local folklore.

But the day's adventure isn't complete without savouring another unforgettable moment. Make sure not to miss the opportunity to soak in a panoramic view of the expansive Loire Valley from the vantage point of Saumur Castle. The castle offers an unparalleled perspective of this breathtaking region, where the Loire River winds its way through vineyard-dotted landscapes and historic towns. This captivating journey along the Vienne and Loire rivers promises a tapestry of natural beauty, history, and culture that will leave a lasting impression on your travels.

In just a short distance, you'll find yourself enveloped by the lush vineyards gracing the southern bank of the Loire. The gently rolling cycle path meanders through these vineyards, offering you a tranquil and picturesque ride surrounded by the vines and the scent of the grapes.

Returning to the river's edge, your journey continues through serene medieval villages, each one a charming glimpse into France's rich history. Your next significant stop on this remarkable adventure is Angers, a vibrant university town nestled along the banks of the Maine River. Angers promises to captivate you with its lively atmosphere, rich cultural offerings, and a blend of contemporary energy with historical charm. As you explore its bustling streets and discover its cultural treasures, you'll be enchanted by this dynamic city on the Loire's edge.

Angers, strategically positioned on the banks of the Maine River, marks the final major tributary of the Loire before its majestic journey culminates in the Atlantic Ocean. Your journey continues along the meandering course of the Maine, eventually converging with the Loire at the scenic confluence of La Pointe-Bouchemaine.

As you venture onward, the path leads you through a landscape framed by the imposing presence of a slate granite massif. This route guides you to Savennières, a quaint village boasting the distinction of housing the region's oldest church. Here, amidst the historical charm, you'll find some of the Loire Valley's most exceptional wines. These wines, renowned for their fruity and dry white varieties, invite you to partake in a memorable experience by visiting a local winegrower. Savour the flavours of the land as you explore the rich viticultural heritage of the region.

Continuing your journey from La Poissonnière, the path traverses dikes that offer enchanting vistas and panoramas of the Loire. Along this route, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the river, leading you to the picturesque town of Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. This charming town, nestled along the Loire's banks, promises a delightful respite on your cycling adventure through the Loire Valley, where history, nature, and gastronomy converge to create an unforgettable experience.

Another day along the Loire, amidst its ever-changing landscapes, awaits. The Loire River has now entered Brittany, meandering through slate and granite rocks on its way to Nantes. The cycle path traverses both riverbanks, featuring occasional minor climbs that reward you with stunning vistas. The Loire River gracefully guides you to the heart of the historic city of Nantes. Despite being 70 km away from the Atlantic Ocean, the maritime influence is already evident in this area.

The river steadily widens, and the landscape grows progressively more serene. The journey continues downstream, passing through quaint villages until the Loire merges with the Atlantic. Only the remarkable bridge spanning the Loire stands between you and Saint Nazaire. Consider exploring the Atlantic Shipyard, among the world's largest shipbuilding firms, or the accessible submarine bunker, which can also be reached by bicycle.

Spend a few extra days in the city of Saint-Nazaire or return home.