The Vélodyssée from La Rochelle to Nantes
Day 1
72 km
La Rochelle → La Tranche-sur-Mer
Your journey begins in La Rochelle’s historic heart. After picking up your rental bike from our Paulette partner agency, you ride out alongside the Marans canal. The rhythm sets in—steady and serene, like the flow through the locks. You cross Marans and glide into the wide-open spaces of the Marais Poitevin: endless fields, reed-lined paths, and big skies. Pause in L’Aiguillon-sur-Mer, a coastal village famed for mussel farming. The day ends in La Tranche-sur-Mer, a friendly seaside town nestled between pinewoods, soft sand, and Vendée heritage.
Day 2
44 km
La Tranche-sur-Mer → Les Sables d’Olonne
The day begins gently, following the Vendée coast through forests, dunes, and wild beaches. The route leads you to Talmont-Saint-Hilaire and its salt marshes.
A short detour takes you to the Clémenceau House in Saint-Vincent-sur-Jard, where France’s “Tiger” found refuge facing the sea, in gardens designed by Monet. Then it’s on to Les Sables-d’Olonne, vibrant hometown of the Vendée Globe. Wander through the mosaic-covered Penotte Island district, or step into the wartime history of the Blockhaus Hospital.
Day 3
37 km
Les Sables d’Olonnes → Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
A short stage, perfect for a leisurely pace. You follow the Vélodyssée’s coastline route, with dunes and the Atlantic by your side. In Brétignolles-sur-Mer, surfers wave hello; in Brem-sur-Mer, bakeries beckon—stop by Maison des Délices for a taste of traditional gâche vendéenne.
Forests, marshes, and beaches take turns leading you to Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, a sparkling gem on the coast known for sardines and maritime charm. Once again, cycling and local flavor go hand in hand.
Day 4
60 km
Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie → Nourmoutier-en-l’Île
A big day awaits, full of energy and wonder. The forest of Pays de Monts shields you from the wind under its tall pines. Then comes the thrill: crossing the legendary Passage du Gois—a submersible road leading to Noirmoutier Island (mind the tide times!).
Once on the island, you’ll find salt marshes, polders, and the charming streets of Noirmoutier-en-l’Île. The sea is everywhere, and by bike, it feels like pure freedom.
Day 5
54 km
Nourmoutier-en-l’Île → Pornic
The day begins with a last breath of island life: Le Vieil, L’Herbaudière, and their white, flower-lined lanes, almost Mediterranean in feel. Then it’s back to the mainland via the Bouin marshes.
Make a stop at Port du Bec, nicknamed “the little Chinese port”—an oddly beautiful and peaceful place. Riding through the Bourgneuf Bay, birds accompany you: herons, egrets, avocets… a silent ballet on the way to Pornic. This charming town invites indulgence: grab an ice cream at La Fraiseraie or visit the local pottery workshop.
Day 6
40 km
Pornic → Saint-Brévin-les-Pins
A change of scenery: welcome to the Jade Coast, with its gentle cliffs, secret beaches, and retro seaside towns. Don’t miss Saint-Michel-Chef-Chef—famous for the Saint-Michel cookie, a must-try treat.
From Saint-Gildas Point, the view stretches across the Loire estuary and the Saint-Nazaire Bridge. A few more kilometers lead you to Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, nestled between forest and fine sand… and home to a mysterious giant sea serpent rising from the tides.
Day 7
62 km
Saint-Brévin-les-Pins → Nantes
The final ride takes you along the Loire estuary. You follow the peaceful canal de la Martinière, edged with reeds and old docks, toward Le Pellerin, then Trentemoult—an artists’ quarter with colorful houses and a bohemian vibe. Across the river, Nantes comes into view: the Machines de l’île, lively terraces, the Dukes’ Castle… It may be the end of this journey, but perhaps the start of another. You can return your Paulette rental bike here—and keep that feeling of freedom a little longer.