In the heart of nature

48 hours by bike, between Loire, countryside & heritage

On the route of the Loire à Vélo circuit, Saumur Val de Loire offers multiple crossroads to explore the region on two wheels. With both hands on the handlebars, nose to the wind, this is the ideal way to discover, without rushing, the wonders of the surroundings.

We take you here on a 50 km loop through the north of Saumur, between the Loire and the countryside, historical heritage and nature.

Take your time

Pedal without haste!

Day 1

From Saumur to Allonnes

From Saumur to Montsoreau, the banks of the Loire are partly laid out as a greenway. Below the road, the track is lulled by the rustle of poplars. The Loire landscape inclines to adopt a peaceful rhythm, in tune with nature. Above, the hillside villages quietly contemplate the river, too. Dampierre, Parnay, Turquant alternate troglodytes and beautiful freestone residences.

Before reaching Montsoreau, take the bridge over the Loire: direction Varennes-sur-Loire! On the north shore, the viewpoints over the Loire, the confluence with the Vienne, the villages of Montsoreau and Candes are worth stopping to take a few shots.

One night in Allonnes, in a bed and breakfast

Until Allonnes, the walk changes scenery. The countryside is punctuated by market gardening, orchards and forests. On the outskirts of the village, the restored Gué de Louet wash house bears witness to life in the 19th century. How many conversations could this public washhouse, all in freestone and slate, listen to? The 17th century Chapel of Russé has always attracted pilgrims in search of healing.

But it's time to stop for the night. Put your bags down La Thibaudiere, an 18th century residence converted into guest rooms, nestled in a huge garden and orchard.

Day 2

From Allonnes to Saumur

At the same pace, in “slow holiday” mode, the departure from Allonnes to reach Neuillé takes you through green countryside. In Neuillé, the points of interest combine history and natural heritage. In terms of architecture, the neo-Gothic castle of Salvert, the castle of Goupillon, the washhouses or even the Devil's cave will surprise you at the bend of the small paths... In terms of nature, the thousand-year-old chestnut tree seems to be watching your passage, from its height of 12 meters!

Return to Saumur via Saint-Lambert-des-Levées then the “Entre les ponts” district. In case of strong heat, enjoy a snack break with your feet in the water, at the Millocheau leisure center!