Loire Valley by Bike: Nevers to Orléans

Your tour begins in the lovely Burgundian town of Nevers, situated on the timeless Loire River. Settle into your accommodations here, then set out to explore the charming town center.

Nevers faience pottery is famous worldwide and still produced here today, and you're likely to come across several potters during your walk around town. Some other must-sees in Nevers are the Nevers Cathedral and the Palais Ducal with its impressive renaissance façade.

This morning you’ll ride to the small village of Cuffy, at the confluence of the Loire and Allier rivers. The 800km Loire a Vélo (Loire Valley Cycling Route) begins here, and today you’ll commence on its first stage.

Enjoy a pleasant ride to the monastery town of Charité-sur-Loire, where you’ll pedal a 16th-century bridge to the spellbinding Notre Dame church, known as one of the most important Romanesque edifices in Burgundy.

Tonight, you’ll spend the evening in lovely Charité-sur-Loire, where spectacular food and wines from the local vineyards of Burgundy won’t disappoint.

Continue your route through the vast undulating vineyards that carpet the Loire Valley as you ride towards Sancerre this morning. Enjoy a quick stop in Pouilly-sur-Loire on your way to admire the beautiful bell tower of the village church.

Continue through lovely woods and sprawling fields to the famous wine region of Sancerre. Hop off your bikes and enjoy a crisp glass of the local Sauvignon Blanc paired with Chavignol goat’s cheese, a true afternoon delight! Ride to your hotel enjoying breathtaking views of the Loire Valley from your advantageous position in the medieval hilltop town of Sancerre.

Depart Sancerre this morning via the Canal Latéral towards the flowery town of Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire, perched on the Loire’s right bank.

Continue to Elleville-sur-Loire and then Beaulieu-sur-Loire until you reach beautiful Briare.

This morning you’ll be invited to appreciate the Loire from a different perspective as you cross the river via the canal bridge, continuing to Saint-Brisson-sur-Loire. Then, ride on to the lively town of Gien, where you’ll explore the impressive castle of Anne de Beaujeu and an 18th-century 12-pillar bridge.

Press on to your destination for today, Sully-sur-Loire. The star of the town is a remarkable medieval castle, entirely encased by moats with the brilliant backdrop of the Loire River to perfect an already mesmerizing sight.

Revel in the grand views of the valley this morning as you ride to Saint-Benoit, where you’ll want to hop off your bike to explore the 11th-century abbey situated here. Continue to the Chateauneuf-sur-Loire, once a vital port on the Loire in the 19th-century, before riding on to Orléans.

Known as the town of art and history, Orléans is a former royal city full of allure and charm. Stroll the pedestrian walkways of the old town, perusing the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered Renaissance houses. And spot Joan of Arc (who helped defend the city from invading British armies) lording triumphantly over the streets in the form of a grand statue. The city is also home to several museums, gardens, and churches, leaving you with plenty to see during your time here!

Your cycling tour in the Loire Valley comes to an end this morning following breakfast. It is recommended you extend your time in Orléans by an extra night or two, allowing time to explore the remarkable town further.