More than 300 km/185 miles, mainly along rivers
The second stage of the ‘Vélo Francette’: a new, uninterrupted track in West France. The route is completely marked and to a large extent follows rivers and other waterways. Cycling through wonderful towns and picturesque villages in this unspoiled part of France is going to be lovely. You follow no less than 3 different routes. This is ‘slow travel’ in the literal sense of the word.
Route 1: The Loire valley from Angers to Saumur (58 km/39 miles)
A beautiful part of the Loire Valley is included in this route. Here you will enjoy the clear, natural light shining on the impressive heritage in this exceptionally beautiful region.
From the village of Gennes you ride to lively Saumur. You can choose whether you take the north- or south bank of the Loire. Whichever you take, both routes offer lovely views and many cultural surprises on the way.
Route 2: The river Thouet from Saumur to Niort (166km /103 miles)
From Saumur you cycle south and follow the ‘Thouet á Vélo’ route. The Thouet river is your guide on this trip which passes through the beautiful town of Parthenay. Discover on the way through the valley the fortified towns and admire the rich heritage along the river: old castles, bridges, mills and also a subterranean well…moreover on your way south the climate becomes milder and the rhythm of life calmer and more relaxed.
Route 3: From Niort to La Rochelle – (90 km/56 miles)
On the way to the Atlantic Ocean you cycle through a magnificent maze of green- and blue coloured canals. You cycle along umbrageous waterways through breathtaking marshlands, called La Venise Verte’’( Green Venice). After that ‘La Belle d’Aunis takes you, via broader and more open canals, to La Rochelle situated on the coast; an appropriate and fantastic end of this new bike tour.