Loire à Vélo: From Nantes to Tours

Histoire

Patrimoine

Each pedal stroke along the Loire is an invitation to pause and admire. From the lively quays of Nantes to the medieval streets of Tours, this itinerary leads you through a land where nature and history intertwine. Perched villages, wild islands, majestic châteaux, and troglodyte cellars line the way—at the heart of one of France’s most beautiful landscapes. A gentle adventure rich with views, local encounters, and heritage—yours to discover in full freedom with a bike rented from Paulette.

Day 1

54 km

Nantes → Saint-Florent-le-Vieil

Leaving behind the bustle of Nantes, the greenway leads you into calm, past rooftop gardens and silver reflections of the Loire. The scenery quickly turns rural.

In Mauves-sur-Loire, uncover surprising heritage before climbing to Champtoceaux, a former medieval town perched 70 meters high with stunning views of the valley. In Oudon, Jean V’s tower offers another breathtaking panorama.

Following the islands of Neuve and Coton, you arrive in Ancenis, with schist houses echoing a rich riverborne past. A few more kilometers bring you to Saint-Florent-le-Vieil, nestled atop Mont Glonne—a peaceful village with poetic charm to close out your first day on the Loire.

Day 2

54 km

Saint-Florent-le-Vieil → Angers

From Mont Glonne, rejoin the Loire in all its tranquility. Morning light grazes the riverbanks.

In Montjean-sur-Loire, climb to the village heights for panoramic views. Cross the vast island of Chalonnes and arrive at Chalonnes-sur-Loire and its historic port.

Make a short detour to Béhuard, a tiny island and true gem of the river. After riding through the vineyards of Savennières and Bouchemaine, you enter Angers—former capital of a forgotten kingdom. A medieval fortress, cobbled lanes, and a glass of Cabernet d’Anjou await in this gentle Loire city.

Day 3

58 km

Angers → Saumur

Cycle eastward toward La Daguenière and Trélazé, home of the Slate Museum. Rehabilitated marshlands stretch alongside raised banks known as levées.

At Saint-Rémy-la-Varenne, the riverside priory invites you to pause. Pass through Le Thoureil, Gennes, Trèves, and Saint-Hilaire-Saint-Florent, each steeped in history.
At last, Saumur appears—its château perched above the town, its lively streets, and famous troglodyte wine cellars. A designated City of Art and History, Saumur is a sparkling gem of the Loire Valley.

Day 4

42 km

Saumur → Rigny-Ussé

Head east through fertile vineyards and troglodyte villages. Pass through Dampierre-sur-Loire, Souzay-Champigny, and the stunning villages of Montsoreau and Candes-Saint-Martin—both listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

At the confluence of the Loire and Vienne, panoramic views unfold. Ride past wild river islands until you reach Rigny-Ussé. Its storybook château—nicknamed Sleeping Beauty’s Castle—whisks you into a fairytale.

Day 5

42 km

Rigny-Ussée → Tours

Loire Valley castles take center stage today: Azay-le-Rideau, Langeais, Villandry… each a jewel worth discovering at your own rhythm.

Follow the Cher River through Savonnières and its petrifying caves before reaching Tours. Wander the medieval lanes, admire half-timbered houses, and toast your journey at lively Place Plumereau. Then drop off your bike at Paulette’s Tours agency—you’ve just completed a magnificent Loire à Vélo adventure.