Paris to Saumur: From Véloscénie to Vélobuissonnière

🌟 Embark on a 70 km adventure from Notre-Dame de Paris to Rambouillet, following the Véloscénie, a bike route that guides you from Paris to Alençon, before leading you to the Vélobuissonnière! Experience this unforgettable journey with DolceVia and rent an electric bike for a hassle-free adventure. 🏰 Start your journey at Notre-Dame de Paris, a symbol of history and architecture. Pedal along the Seine, crossing the heart of the capital before gradually leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind. 🌲 Ride through the Parc de Saint-Cloud, with its vast green spaces and beautiful views of Paris. Then continue to the tranquil Forêt de Meudon, where shaded paths and a soothing atmosphere await you for a welcome break. 🌿 Next, pedal along the picturesque trails of the Vallée de Chevreuse, with its charming villages, winding roads, and stunning landscapes that make every pedal stroke enjoyable. Take a break at the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, an ideal spot to discover the region. 🚴‍♀️ You will arrive in Rambouillet, where you can explore the majestic Château de Rambouillet and its surrounding forests, a true haven of peace at the gates of Paris. 🏨 Rest at the picturesque Moulin de Vilgris, a quiet spot by the river, offering comfortable accommodations and services tailored for cyclists. © Pinterest

🌳 Ready to continue the adventure Paris - Saumur by bike? Embark on a new 50 km stage, connecting Rambouillet to Chartres, following the Véloscénie.
🏰 Start your journey by leaving Rambouillet and head towards the Rambouillet Forest. The many cycling paths that await you will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of the landscape. Continue your way through small rural roads, between fields and forests, for a pleasant ride.
🌿 Along your route, let yourself be charmed by the soothing landscapes of the Eure Valley and cross picturesque villages like Maintenon, famous for its castle and beautiful gardens. A perfect break before continuing your journey to Chartres.
⛪ As you approach Chartres, you will be able to admire the first views of the splendid Chartres Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, signaling the end of this stage.
🛍️ Upon your arrival in Chartres, stroll through the old town before heading to your accommodation.
🛏️ After this day of cycling, relax in your apartment with a jacuzzi at Le Splendide Collégiale Saint-André, where you can unwind in the jacuzzi and enjoy a peaceful setting after this beautiful day of biking.
© Pinterest

🚴‍♂️ Discover this fascinating third stage connecting Chartres to Arcisses, covering 55 km. A route combining exceptional heritage and preserved nature, following the Véloscénie bike path. 🏰 Start your day with a visit to the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral in Chartres, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, hop on your bike to explore the bucolic landscapes of Eure-et-Loir. 🌳 Pedal through varied landscapes: rolling fields, shaded forests, and picturesque villages. Enjoy a break in Illiers-Combray, the iconic town of Marcel Proust, perfect for a moment of cultural or gastronomic relaxation. 🌿 Before arriving in Arcisses, don't miss a stop in Nogent-le-Rotrou, the true historical heart of Perche. Visit the Saint-Jean Castle, a majestic monument overlooking the town, and enjoy its medieval atmosphere for an enriching pause. 🌾 Continue your journey towards Arcisses and let yourself be charmed by the tranquil landscapes of the Perche hills, a territory where natural and architectural heritage harmoniously blend. 🏡 For your evening, relax in a unique and warm setting by staying at La roulotte de Jane, offering all the necessary comfort for a restful night before resuming your adventure. ✨ Continue your journey Paris - Saumur by bike along the Véloscénie and get closer to the Vélobuissonnière! © Val-au-Perche

🚴‍♂️ Continue your adventure on this fourth stage connecting Arcisses to Coulonges-sur-Sarthe, over 53 km. A route through the authentic landscapes of Perche, between lush hills and picturesque villages, following the famous cycling route of Véloscénie. 🌳 Depart from Arcisses, crossing shaded forests and rolling fields typical of this tranquil region. Admire the manors and charming hamlets that line your path, witnesses to a rich rural heritage throughout your journey. 🏰 On your way, stop at Rémalard-en-Perche, a charming village known for its half-timbered houses, local artisans, and its natural setting perfect for a relaxing break. 🌾 Before arriving at Coulonges-sur-Sarthe, make a final stop at Montagne-au-Perche, a picturesque village located just 5 km from your destination. Enjoy this peaceful pause to admire the stunning views of the surrounding hills. 🏡 For the night, choose a warm and authentic stay at the guesthouses of Coulonges-sur-Sarthe. This charming gîte offers you a welcoming and restful setting, perfect for recharging before the next stage of your adventure. ✨ You are getting closer to la Vélobuissonnière. Keep discovering the natural and cultural treasures of Véloscénie! © Hiking Normandy

🚴‍♂️ Today, we slow down a bit! After several dynamic stages, enjoy a more relaxed day to catch your breath and savor the moment. Head to Lignières-Orgères, in the heart of the Normandy-Maine Regional Natural Park, for a well-deserved nature break. 🌳 We start gently in Le Mêle-sur-Sarthe, a small village nestled between river and greenery. Then, we head towards the vast forests and hills of the Normandy-Maine Park, a calm place where the horizon seems endless. Take the time to listen to the birds singing and enjoy every pedal stroke. 🏞️ Upon arrival in Alençon, a change of atmosphere! Its historic center, rich in history and renowned for its lace, is the perfect place for a gourmet break. A local pastry shop, a café on the terrace… just what you need to recharge before setting down your panniers. 🏡 Tonight, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation at the Gîtes des Granges, a peaceful haven ideal for resting before hitting the road again. Because tomorrow… the adventure continues on the Vélobuissonnière! © Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ Let’s embark on a beautiful adventure on the Vélobuissonnière with DolceVia ! A sixth stage rich in discoveries, between medieval heritage and grand landscapes.

🚲 We start in Alençon, the city of Dukes, renowned for its unique lace-making expertise. Take the time to explore this heritage at the Museum of Fine Arts and Lace, before heading out onto the country roads.

🌄 Stop at Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France®. A charming place, loved by painters and dreamers, ideal for a contemplative break before tackling the rolling landscapes of the Alpes Mancelles.

🌸 Arrival at Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, where the steep reliefs and the Sarthe River provide a spectacular backdrop. A pause is necessary to enjoy the tranquility and a good coffee on the terrace before setting off again.

🏰 We continue the adventure to Fresnay-sur-Sarthe, a Petite Cité de Caractère®. Its ruined castle, old weavers' quarter, and the banks of the Sarthe invite you to slow down and savor the moment.

🛤️ Last effort towards Beaumont-sur-Sarthe, a medieval city where the Gothic bridge and the remnants of the castle testify to a rich past. A lovely spot to admire the sunset over the river.

🏡 For the night, head to La BelmOntaise, a warm and friendly accommodation, perfect for a relaxing evening after this beautiful day of cycling.

© Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ New stage of your adventure on the Vélobuissonnière route. Follow the quiet little roads that cross the countryside and, in Neuville-sur-Sarthe, stroll along the banks of the Sarthe while admiring the picturesque charm of the watermill.
🏰 Then get back on the road towards Le Mans. This city of art and history is full of treasures. Get lost in the medieval streets of the Cité Plantagenêt, explore the imposing Gallo-Roman walls that encircle the city, or let yourself be amazed by the majestic Saint-Julien Cathedral.
💡 In summer, from July to September, don't miss the Nuit des Chimères, where the streets are spectacularly illuminated – a true feast for the eyes! After this beautiful day, relax in a riverside guinguette, perfect for a refreshment accompanied by delicious rillettes toast.
🏡 For the night, rest at the Jardins de Ma Mans, a peaceful and comfortable place to recover well before continuing your journey.
© Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ This stage begins on the quays at the port of Le Mans, where we follow the Sarthe along the bucolic Boulevard Nature. In Spay, have fun at the Spaycific Zoo, with its species of mammals and birds, or try wakeboarding before relaxing on the beach.

🌳 We continue the route leisurely and, after a few kilometers, we arrive at Fillé. On the MoulinSart island, discover the world of milling at the Cyprien mill, relax in front of the contemporary exhibition at the Art Center, or take a break at the mill's bistro.

🌊 In Roëzé-sur-Sarthe, La Vélobuissonnière invites us to enjoy the water: canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even pedal boating with family for guaranteed laughter. The more adventurous will try the eFoil, electric surfing, and rise above the water. You can also relax at the nautical base for an aperitif around a platter of sausages.

🚴‍♂️ Next, head to Malicorne-sur-Sarthe, labeled City and Crafts. Discover the Museum of Faience and Ceramics, admire the local craftsmanship, and let the children participate in workshops. A souvenir from one of the village's art pottery will be perfect before having lunch in a charming restaurant overlooking the Sarthe.

🌳 We end the day by crossing the lush hills of the Loir Valley to arrive at La Flèche, where we can enjoy a soothing setting.

🏡 For the night: Stay at La Terrasse du Loir, an ideal place to rest after this beautiful day of adventure.

© Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ Here we go for the last stage of the Vélobuissonnière! We start in La Flèche, where a visit to the zoo is a must. This place, recognized as one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe, allows children to become caretakers for a day and experience unforgettable moments meeting the heroes of their favorite stories. 🌿 Next, we head to Baugé-en-Anjou via a greenway ideal for families. A little history lesson awaits you at the castle, where the renewed scenography immerses you in the world of King René, a unique knight-artist. Don't miss the Apothecary of the Hôtel Dieu, where the finely crafted jars create a special atmosphere. 🏰 Enjoy this Petite Cité de Caractère® by wandering through the old quarters before heading off. 🚴‍♂️ We get back on the road towards Saumur, admiring the twisted bell tower of Vieil-Baugé and taking a break in Longué-Jumelles to discover the hydropower mill, a restored and playful site that tells the story of the place. 🌳 Further along, the Monteaux water body in Vivy is perfect for a picnic break before continuing to Saumur, City of Art and History®. Don't miss the Saumur castle, which overlooks the Loire, and the Cadre Noir, where the art of French riding is elevated. The troglodyte houses, carved into the tuffeau, are also a must-see. 🍽️ Finally, indulge in local specialties, such as fouées or stuffed galipettes, accompanied by some bubbles. For a magical night, book a toue cabanée on the Loire, the royal river, and let yourself be carried away by the memories of this exceptional adventure. 🏡 For the night: Stay at the Hôtel Anne d'Anjou for an unforgettable evening by the Loire. © Pascal Beltrami ✨ Did you enjoy the Véloscénie and Vélobuissonnière adventure? Discover these magnificent routes as well: Paris - Tours by bike to reach the Loire Valley, The complete Véloscénie from Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel, or Paris - Orléans by bike to discover the Loire Valley!