Discover the Cycling Gems of France’s Atlantic Loire Valley for 2025-26

Unveiling the Cycling Paradise

With the conclusion of the exhilarating men’s Tour de France and the launch of the women’s Tour from Saumur, anticipation builds for what the Atlantic Loire Valley has in store for cycling enthusiasts in the upcoming years. This picturesque region is brimming with cycling routes that cater to all skill levels, ensuring every pedal stroke is met with awe-inspiring scenery.

Major Cycling Routes in the Atlantic Loire Valley

The Atlantic Loire Valley, also known as Pays de la Loire, boasts six significant cycle routes: the Loire à Vélo, the Vélodyssée, the Vélo Francette, the Vélobuissonnière, the Régalante, and the Vélidéale. Together, these paths stretch over a whopping 3,400 kilometers, perfect for those looking to explore while on two wheels. Notably, this year marks substantial anniversaries for two of these iconic routes and features over 700 accommodations with the treasured Accueil Vélo label, ready to cater to cyclists with bike hire, repair services, and luggage transfers.

20 Years of the Loire à Vélo

Celebrating two decades since its inception, the Loire à Vélo has grown into a beloved 900-kilometer cycling route and is the westernmost section of EuroVelo 6. Following the banks of the Loire—one of France’s last great wild rivers—cyclists can expect a myriad of sandy banks, wine-covered hills, charming towns, and majestic châteaux. Attractions like Montreuil-Bellay, which will celebrate its 1,000th anniversary in 2025, enrich the journey. To add a personal touch, cyclists can have their Loire à Vélo passport stamped at partner tourist offices, creating a memorable token of their adventure.

10 Years of the Vélo Francette

Another notable milestone in 2025 is the 10th anniversary of the Vélo Francette, a tranquil 600-kilometer trail connecting Normandy to La Rochelle. This route showcases the gentle beauty of the River Mayenne, dotted with picturesque lock-keeper houses and charming villages ideal for soaking up the local culture. As travelers navigate south toward Saumur, they can savor traditional riverboat rides alongside breathtaking views of the Loire.

Innovative Developments in Cycling Infrastructure

Expanding the Vélobuissonnière

In Sarthe, old railway lines are being transformed into vibrant cycling greenways, with a new 29-kilometer section connecting La Suze-sur-Sarthe to La Flèche announced earlier this year. This endeavor is part of a broader 250-kilometer Vélobuissonnière route that seamlessly weaves cyclists through scenic landscapes, ensuring enjoying the natural bounty of the region.

The Régalante and Vélidéale Routes

The freshly opened Régalante is a 275-kilometer journey connecting Mont-Saint-Michel to Nantes, emphasizing local cuisine and specialties throughout the ride. Perfect for families, the route features gentle elevations, intriguing historical sites, and delightful village scenery. On the other hand, the Vélidéale offers an expedition from Saint-Nazaire to Mortagne-sur-Sèvre, highlighted by the fascinating marshlands of Brière.

Celebrating Nature with the Vélodyssée

Spanning 1,300 kilometers, the Vélodyssée links Brittany to the Basque Coast and gains Eurovélo certification in 2024. Recent improvements boast over 600 cycling accommodations and numerous rest stops, encouraging travelers to immerse themselves in the unrivaled scenery and local delicacies.

Upcoming Events and Festivals

The fifth Nature Is Bike festival returns to Angers from May 30-31, 2026, celebrating cycling culture and local food. The Anjou region now hosts over 1,000 kilometers of bikepacking gravel trails, ensuring visitors can revel in breathtaking vistas all year round. Cyclists can explore the idyllic countryside and engage with local businesses supporting vibrant community-based tourism.

How to Experience This Cycling Haven

For those eager to explore the captivating routes of the Atlantic Loire Valley, consideration of transportation options is key. With personalized service offerings, such as those available through LocalsRide, travelers can experience the comfort of choosing specific vehicles and enjoy unparalleled transparency in their booking process. Options for bike transport can enhance the journey, making access easier.

Висновок

Discovering the Atlantic Loire Valley on two wheels promises encounters with stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic cuisine. While reviews and opinions abound, nothing compares to the thrill of personal experience. LocalsRide empowers travelers to hire vehicles with drivers from verified providers at reasonable rates, facilitating informed decision-making without breaking the bank. The platform’s extensive vehicle choices and additional services complement the exploration of this enchanting region seamlessly. So, book your adventure on LocalsRide.com and dive into the heart of the Atlantic Loire Valley!