Paris - Nantes

Paris - Nantes: The Ultimate Loire à Vélo Route in 11 Stages

🚴 Dreaming of an escape? Pack your panniers for an unforgettable 600 km adventure. This complete itinerary guides you from the capital to the Atlantic, joining the legendary Loire à Vélo route. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cyclist, this balanced breakdown will allow you to enjoy every moment.

🏙️ Your journey begins in the heart of Paris, at DolceVia. Leave the urban hustle and bustle to reach the banks of the Seine. It's the perfect warm-up before tackling the vast spaces of the Loire à Vélo.

🌳 Follow the river and enjoy the exit from the Paris metropolitan area via dedicated bike paths. You will cross the Sénart forest, a pleasant green lung that makes you forget the city.

🧀 Arriving in Melun marks the end of this first stage of 53 km. It's the perfect opportunity to taste the famous Brie de Melun, the "big brother" of the robust Brie de Meaux, to recharge for the next leg of your journey towards the Loire à Vélo.

If you haven't picked up your gear yet, stop by our agency before departure. Our bike rental service in Paris allows you to leave directly with panniers, helmets, and a repair kit.

©tourisme-seine-et-marne.fr

🌿 This 71 km stage immerses you in the softness of Gâtinais. You leave the Seine to follow the canals that will gradually guide you towards the official route of the Loire by Bike.

🛶 The route is flat and peaceful, running alongside the Loing. You will pass through charming villages like Moret-sur-Loing, a medieval town that inspired Impressionist painters. A photo stop is a must!

🌸 Upon arriving in Montargis, nicknamed the "Venice of Gâtinais," you will discover its 131 bridges and footbridges. It is a key stop to rest before finally seeing the royal river on the Loire by Bike route.

🚲 Today, head south! This stage of 52 km is a pivotal moment in your journey. You will finally reach the river and officially begin your adventure on the Loire by Bike.

🌳 Pedal along the Briare Canal, the oldest canal in France. The towpath offers absolute tranquility, away from cars, perfect for warming up.

🌉 The arrival is spectacular: you cross the majestic Briare Aqueduct. Suspended above the river, it is one of the jewels of the Loire by Bike. Take the time to admire the breathtaking view of the Loire that unfolds before you.

©My loire valley

🏰 Enjoy a "recovery" day with this short stage of 36 km. This is the very spirit of the Loire by Bike: taking the time to live and admire the landscape without rushing.

🍷 Leaving Briare, you follow the wild river. The landscapes change, revealing the first sandy banks typical of the region. Don't hesitate to take a small detour to the surrounding vineyards.

👑 Your destination, Sully-sur-Loire, welcomes you with its imposing medieval fortress surrounded by water-filled moats. It is the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Loire Valley, a must-see on the Loire by Bike.

©Val de Loire

🦅 This 48 km stage takes you to the city of Joan of Arc. The Loire à Vélo route becomes royal here, offering clear views of the last wild river in Europe.

🌿 You will cross protected natural areas where wildlife reigns. Keep your eyes peeled; it is not uncommon to spot herons or beavers along the landscaped banks of the Loire à Vélo.

⛪ The arrival in Orléans is grand. The silhouette of the Sainte-Croix Cathedral guides you to the city center. Park your bikes to stroll through the historic streets and enjoy the local cuisine.

©My loire valley

🚴 It's time to set off for 64 km on one of the most popular sections of the Loire by Bike. The path is perfectly marked and takes you from the north bank to the south bank.

🏰 Along the way, take a break in Meung-sur-Loire or Beaugency, two medieval towns full of character. If you have strong legs, a detour to Chambord is possible, but the direct route of the Loire by Bike is already stunning.

👑 Blois awaits you with its royal castle overlooking the city and the river. The climb to the castle will work your thighs, but the panoramic view of the Loire at sunset is worth it.

©Val de Loire 41

🍇 This 60 km stage is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. The Loire à Vélo route winds here between the river and the vineyards.

🏰 You will pass at the foot of the Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire (known for its garden festival) and especially through Amboise. It's impossible not to stop in front of the Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, located just a stone's throw from the Loire à Vélo path.

🍻 Arriving in Tours marks the end of the day. Head to Place Plumereau and its half-timbered houses for a well-deserved aperitif. This is the liveliest stage of your journey.

The hills towards the castle can be surprising! If you're worried about fatigue on these long stages, opt for ease by considering our electric bike rental to enjoy the scenery without straining.

👑 At 73 km, this is the longest stage of the trip, but also one of the most beautiful along the Loire by Bike. You will be amazed!

🌹 As soon as you leave Tours, don't miss the gardens of the Château de Villandry. A little further on, the Château d'Ussé (the one from Sleeping Beauty) stands proudly on your route. This is the magic of the Loire by Bike at work.

✨ You will cross Candes-Saint-Martin, listed among the most beautiful villages in France, before arriving in Saumur. The view of the white castle overlooking the river is one of the most famous postcards of the Loire by Bike.

🍄 For this 52 km stage, the landscape changes color. The white limestone gives way to black slate. Follow the Loire à Vélo through the troglodyte villages of the Saumur coast.

🍷 You will pass through the vineyards of Anjou. This is a very pleasant section, often shaded, allowing you to pedal in comfort. Don't forget to taste local specialties like fouées during your lunch break.

🏰 The entrance to Angers is gentle. You will be welcomed by the imposing fortress of King René. Visiting the castle to see the Apocalypse Tapestry is a must to conclude this beautiful day on the Loire à Vélo.

©Destination Angers

🌊 The sea air is starting to be felt! This 59 km stage on the Loire à Vélo brings you closer to the Atlantic. The river widens and offers magnificent landscapes.

🌿 You will cross the Loire islands, true havens of peace for biodiversity. The route is very flat, allowing you to maintain a good pace while enjoying the unique light of the valley.

🏘️ Ancenis is a charming stop with its suspension bridge and its castle facing the river. It's your last evening before the final arrival, take the time to celebrate your journey on the Loire à Vélo.

🐘 It's the final stretch! Only 40 km to go to complete your adventure on the Loire by Bike. A short stage to have time to visit Nantes.

🏗️ The arrival in the city is spectacular, blending nature and industrial heritage. Follow the green line that leads you to the heart of the City of the Dukes.

🎉 Congratulations! You have traveled over 600 km. Don't leave without visiting the Machines of the Isle and the Great Elephant, symbols of Nantes' revival. You have completed your challenge: cycling the Loire from Paris to the Ocean!

Did you enjoy the Loire by Bike experience? DolceVia offers you other guides for your next cycling holidays:

The complete route of the Véloscénie: From Paris to Mont Saint-Michel – For those who prefer Normandy and its hedgerows to the châteaux of the Loire.

Cycling to London: Head for the Green Avenue – An international adventure connecting the two capitals through the Normandy countryside and the ferry.

Weekend cycling: From Paris to Chartres in 2 days – A shorter format, ideal for training before attempting the great crossing to Nantes.

©trecobat