Night 1
See Tripadvisor ReviewsIbis Styles Saumur Gare Centre in Saumur
This is a lovely hotel comprised of 63 stylish rooms offering guests superb views of the Loire River during their stay.
Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast
Prices
Highlights
Cycle the 3rd section of the Loire a Vélo on this 6-day self-guided tour
Ride through the Loire Valley towards the wild Atlantic Coast on the 6-day self-guided Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast tour.
The epic 800km Loire a Vélo (Loire Valley Cycling Route) is a mesmerizing route starting in Cuffy and ending in Saint-Brevin-Les-Pins in Western France. The route that introduces riders to the beautiful Loire Valley makes up the western section of the EV6 (Rivers Route), the colossal trans-European cycle route that spans from France to Romania. This cycling tour will have you completing the 3rd stage of the Loire a Vélo as you ride from Saumur to St-Brevin-Les-Pins.
Tracing the wild banks of France’s longest river, you’ll enjoy easy cycling through the Loire’s spectacular towns and villages, enjoying several stops to take in sightseeing highlights along the way. Setting out from Saumur, you’ll ride to Angers, St-Florent-le-Vieil, Nantes, and end your tour on the coast in St-Brévin-Les-Pins.
Discover medieval castles as you’re swept back in time with visits to the Loire’s famous châteaus, like the Château de Saumur. Top off sensational days on the bike with mouth-watering French cuisine paired with fine local wines, like Saumur-Champigny or a white Savenières. Stay in either standard or deluxe accommodations along the route, allowing you to customize this unique cycling experience.
This cycling tour is the perfect way to explore one of France’s most beautiful regions on a bike as you discover the spellbinding beauty of the Loire Valley, a remarkable cultural landscape recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
Your tour begins in the beautiful town of Saumur, nestled in the heart of the Anjou Vineyards. This medieval masterpiece is a fitting start for your grand tour of the Loire Valley.
If your arrival time permits, set out on foot to explore the town, making sure to take in the magnificent Château de Saumur that towers proudly above the town and overlooks the Loire Valley.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Saumur
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 2 Ride to St-Mathurin-sur-Loire and Sail to Angers
Your cycling tour of the Loire Valley begins today with a pleasant ride along the Loire’s southern bank. Take in the picturesque church in Cunault and St-Maur Abbey as you ride into St-Mathurin-sur-Loire.
Then, tracing the northern bank of the Loire, you’ll navigate a former swamp, long since drained (in the middle ages!) towards the ferry dock on the Authion River. Hop off your bike and set sail for Angers, known as the historical capital of Anjou.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Angers
- Distance
- 59km, 192m of ascent, 190m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 3 Cycle the River Maine and the Vineyards of Savennières
Depart Angers this morning via a serene park-like setting, following the banks of the river Maine until you reach Bouchemaine, well known for its excellent restaurants and idyllic picnic spots. Continue to hug the river, and to the west, you’ll begin to see the sprawling vineyards of avennières and Coteaux du Layon.
Then, crossing the island of Chalonnes, you’ll reach the hilltop village of Montjean-sur-Loire, where you’ll soak up some incredible views of the valley before pressing on to Florent-le-Vieil.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Florent-le-Vieil
- Distance
- 51km, 79m of ascent, 98m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 4 Cycle Mont Glonne, Champtoceaux, and Mauves-sur-Loire to Nantes
If you think the views of the Loire couldn’t possibly get any better on this tour, your perspective from Mont Glonne today will debunk that! Enjoy sensational views of the Loire this morning before setting off for the fortified town of Champtoceaux. It’s here, where the Loire-Atlantique begins, that you’ll start to notice the influence of the Atlantic Ocean on the landscape.
Continuing the route, you’ll take in the Muscadet vineyards as you ride through Mauves-sur-Loire. The outline of the Loire’s largest and most vibrant town, Nantes, will soon come into view. Pedal towards your accommodations in Nantes, where you’ll spend a magical evening.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Nantes
- Distance
- 56km, 40m of ascent, 52m of descent
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 5 Cycle the Martinière Canal to Paimboeuf and St-Brevin-les-Pins
Ride to Le Pellerin this morning relying on the Martinière canal as your steadfast guide. Then, continue the route via quiet country roads to Paimboeuf, where you’ll briefly join the coastal route known as Velodyssey. It’s here you’ll begin to take note of the influence of the strong currents and tides of the ocean making their mark on the Loire.
With your eyes set on the coast, continue to St-Brevin-Les-Pins, the lovely seaside resort perched on the Atlantic that you’ll call home this evening.
Just as Saumur was a fitting beginning for this tour, so too is St-Brevin-les-Pins a fitting end. The beautiful town boasts long stretches of golden beach backed by enchanting pine forests. Enjoy a farewell dinner tonight in this charming location and share a toast to the completion of your cycling adventure in the Loire Valley!
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in St-Brevin-les-Pins
- Distance
- 58km
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 6 Departure
This morning following breakfast, you’ll return to Saumur by train and depart for the airport.
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- Breakfast
Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast Price and Dates
This self-guided cycling tour of the Loire Valley is always run as a private tour for your group and the price per person depends on the number of people staying in one room, the season and the accommodation type.
Standard Hotels
- Price per person staying in a single room: $895USD
- Price per person sharing a double or a twin room: $625USD
- Price per person sharing a triple room: $595USD
Deluxe Hotels
- Price per person staying in a single room: $1,050USD
- Price per person sharing a double or a twin room: $725USD
- Price per person sharing a triple room: $625USD
Accommodation on the Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast tour
This tour is available with either standard or deluxe accommodations. Hotels and B&Bs on the standard tour are 2-star and 3-star and offer basic conveniences. Hotels and B&Bs on the deluxe tour are 3-star and 4-star and offer modern conveniences.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Night 2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel le Progrès in Angers
Angers lies at the heart of the Loire Valley and this hotel is located in the heart of Angers! Enjoy a pleasant comfortable stay at this hotel that brings the town to your doorstep.
Night 3
See Tripadvisor ReviewsB&B Tour de la Gabelle in Saint-Florent-le-Vieil
This warm and welcoming property is located a mere 20 meters from the Loire, allowing guests the unique opportunity to literally “sleep on the Loire!”
Night 4
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Amiral in Nantes
Hotel Amiral is a comfortable hotel found at the heart and historic center of Nantes, located close by the Graslin Theatre and several shops and restaurants.
Night 5
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHôtel le Petit Trianon in Saint Brevin Les Pins
Guests can enjoy several shops and restaurants within walking distance of this comfortable hotel located nearby the beach.
Standard Accommodation
Night 1
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHôtel Anne d’Anjou in Saumur
This elegant 18th-century hotel invites its guests to enjoy a wide array of modern amenities and is just a short walk to the city center of Saumur.
Night 2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Best Western d’Anjou in Angers
Guests will enjoy this beautiful 19th-century building hotel that features a lovely garden terrace and an elegant restaurant and bar.
Night 3
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Palais Briau in Varades
This gorgeous chateau hotel offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience in one of 4 Napoleon-style guest rooms with comfortable and charming period furnishings.
Night 4
See Tripadvisor ReviewsOceania Hôtel de France in Nantes
Old blends seamlessly with new at this gorgeous hotel, situated in a grand 18th-century dwelling and featuring modern updates and finishes. Guests can enjoy a fitness center and a unique art-themed bar during their stay here.
Night 5
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHôtel le Petit Trianon in Saint Brevin Les Pins
Guests can enjoy several shops and restaurants within walking distance of this comfortable hotel located nearby the beach.
Deluxe Accommodations
What’s Included in the Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast tour?
Meals
5 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 5 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Saumur and after the tour in St-Brevin-les-Pins are not included but can be added as a supplement. You can also book ahead to extend your stay at any of the overnight locations along the route.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for you and your luggage are included throughout the tour. Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
Also Included
- Detailed route notes and maps
- Tourist city tax
- 24/7 emergency phone support
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Guide services
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas is required
Optional Extras
- Bike rental:
-
- Hybrid bike: $175USD
- E-bike: $225USD
- Additional nights before, during, or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
Frequenty Asked Questions about Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast
How hard is the Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast tour?
We rate this tour a 3/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 60km in a day, potentially with the help of an e-bike. The terrain is almost entirely flat with a few very easy climbs.
Do I need a visa to travel to France?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast tour?
5 breakfasts are included on this tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Saumur to start this tour?
Fly into the Paris airport of your choice, either Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Orly Airport (ORY). From both airports, you can reach Saumur by taking a train from the Paris city center, which takes approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer from the airport as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer. Alternate airport arrival option are Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) or Rennes Bretagne Airport (RNS).
Where does the Loire Valley by Bike: Saumur to the Atlantic Coast tour end?
The tour ends in St-Brevin-les-Pins (Saint-Nazaire). First take the train back to Saumur, which takes approximately 2 hours, then catch a train to Paris, which will take an additional two hours, and then on to your departure airport. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to the airport as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer.
Is this a guided tour?
No. You will be provided with all necessary information to complete your self-guided tour.
Can I rent a bike?
Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are VELO DE VILLE Trekking A200 24-speed hybrid bikes or VELO DE VILLE CEB 400 Belt e-bikes.
What equipment is included in the bike rental?
The bikes come with a pannier, handlebar bag, spare tube, tools, pump, helmet and lock.
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to France?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for France?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to France for this tour?
The best time to travel to the Loire Valley for this cycling tour is during the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-October when the crowds are lighter than during peak summer months (June-August).
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I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
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Why 10Adventures?
Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews
Tour Difficulty
We rate this tour a 3/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 60km in a day, potentially with the help of an e-bike. The terrain is almost entirely flat with a few very easy climbs.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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