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 Chevreuse Valley, 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.

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🌳 Ready to continue the Paris - Saumur cycling adventure?! Embark on a new 50 km stage from Rambouillet to Chartres, following the Véloscénie.

🏰 Start your journey by leaving Rambouillet toward the Rambouillet Forest, where numerous cycling paths will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of the area. Continue along small rural roads, between fields and forests, for a pleasant ride.

🌿 Along the way, admire the peaceful landscapes of the Eure Valley and pass through charming villages like Maintenon, known for its castle and beautiful gardens. It’s a perfect spot for a quick break before continuing your journey to Chartres.

⛪ As you approach Chartres, you will catch your first glimpse of the majestic Chartres Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, marking the end of this stage.

🛍️ Once in Chartres, take your time to stroll through the old town before heading to your accommodation.

🛏️ After your cycling day, 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 wonderful day of cycling.

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🚴‍♂️ Dive into this captivating third stage, connecting Chartres to Arcisses, over 55 km. This route blends exceptional heritage and pristine nature along the scenic Véloscénie cycle path.

🏰 Start your day with a final stroll around the magnificent Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, hop on your bike and pedal through the picturesque countryside of Eure-et-Loir.

🌳 Ride through diverse landscapes: rolling fields, shaded woods, and charming villages. Don’t miss a stop at Illiers-Combray, a town beloved by Marcel Proust, perfect for a cultural or gourmet break.

🌿 Before reaching Arcisses, make an essential detour to Nogent-le-Rotrou, the historical heart of the Perche region. Discover the Château Saint-Jean, an iconic monument overlooking the town, and soak up its medieval charm for an enriching break.

🌾 Continue your journey to Arcisses and be enchanted by the tranquil views of the Perche Hills, where natural beauty and architectural heritage harmoniously intertwine.

🏡 End your evening in a unique and cozy setting by staying at La Roulotte de Jane, offering all the comfort you need for a restful night before continuing your adventure.

✨ Continue your Paris to Saumur by bike adventure along the Véloscénie and get closer and closer to the Vélobuissonnière !

© Val-au-Perche

🚴‍♂️ Continue your adventure with this fourth stage connecting Arcisses to Coulonges-sur-Sarthe, covering 53 km. This route takes you through the authentic landscapes of the Perche, with rolling hills and charming villages, following the famous véloroute of the Véloscénie.

🌳 Start your journey from Arcisses, crossing shaded forests and rolling fields typical of this peaceful region. Admire the manors and picturesque hamlets lining your path, witnesses to the rich rural heritage, along your Paris-Saumur bike journey.

🏰 On your route, stop at Rémalard-en-Perche, a charming village known for its timber-framed houses, local artisans, and its natural setting, perfect for a relaxing break.

🌾 Before reaching Coulonges-sur-Sarthe, make a final stop at Montagne-au-Perche, a picturesque village just 5 km from your destination. Enjoy a peaceful break and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

🏡 For the night, enjoy a warm and authentic stay at the Chambres d’hôtes de Coulonges-sur-Sarthe. This charming guesthouse offers a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for recharging before the next leg of your adventure.

✨ You’re getting closer to the Vélobuissonnière. Keep exploring the natural and cultural treasures of the Véloscénie!

© Randonnée Normandie

🚴‍♂️ Today, it's time to take it easy! After several exciting stages, enjoy a more relaxed day to recharge and fully appreciate the moment. Head towards Lignières-Orgères, located in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional Normandie-Maine, for a well-deserved nature break.

🌳 Start your journey gently in Le Mêle-sur-Sarthe, a small village nestled between rivers and greenery. Then, head towards the vast forests and rolling hills of the Parc Normandie-Maine. Here, it's all about calm and endless open spaces. Take your time to listen to the birds singing and savor each pedal stroke.

🏞️ Upon arriving in Alençon, the scenery changes! The historic center, steeped in history and known for its lace, is the perfect spot for a tasty break. A local pastry, a coffee on the terrace... the perfect way to recharge before setting down your panniers.

🏡 Tonight, treat yourself to a peaceful retreat at the Gîtes des Granges, an ideal haven to rest before the next leg of the journey. Because tomorrow... the adventure continues along the Vélobuissonnière!

© Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ Let’s go for a wonderful adventure on the Vélobuissonnière with DolceVia ! A sixth stage full of discoveries, between medieval heritage and grand landscapes.

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

🌄 Stop in Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei , listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France®. A charming place loved by painters and dreamers, perfect for a contemplative break before tackling the rolling hills of the Alpes Mancelles .

🌸 Arrival in Saint-Léonard-des-Bois , where the rugged landscapes and the Sarthe river provide a spectacular backdrop. It’s time for a break to enjoy the tranquility and a nice coffee on the terrace before continuing.

🏰 We continue the adventure to Fresnay-sur-Sarthe , a Petite Cité de Caractère®. Its ruined castle, old weaver's district, and the Sarthe riverbanks invite you to slow down and savor the moment.

🛤️ The final effort towards Beaumont-sur-Sarthe , a medieval city where the gothic bridge and castle ruins bear witness to its rich past. A perfect 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 great day of cycling.

© Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ New stage of your adventure along the route of the Vélobuissonnière. Follow the peaceful small roads that wind through the countryside, and in Neuville-sur-Sarthe, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Sarthe, admiring the picturesque view of the watermill.

🏰 Then, get back on your bike and head towards Le Mans. This city of art and history has a lot to offer. Wander through the medieval streets of the Cité Plantagenêt, explore the impressive Gallo-Roman walls surrounding the city, or marvel at the magnificent Saint-Julien Cathedral.

💡 In the summer, from July to September, don't miss the "Nuit des Chimères," when the streets light up spectacularly — a real feast for the eyes! After a day of cycling, relax at a riverside guinguette, the perfect place to cool off and enjoy some delicious rillettes on crispy bread.

🏡 For the night, rest at the Jardins de Ma Mans, a peaceful and comfortable place to recharge before the next leg of your journey.

© Pascal Beltrami

🚴‍♂️ This stage starts at the quays of 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 mammal and bird species, or try wakeboarding before relaxing on the beach.

🌳 We continue the route at a leisurely pace, 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 the family for guaranteed laughs. The more adventurous will try the eFoil, electric surfing, and rise above the water. You can also relax at the water sports center for an aperitif with a charcuterie board.

🚴‍♂️ Then, head to Malicorne-sur-Sarthe, a Ville et Métiers d'Art. Explore the Faience and Ceramics Museum, admire local craftsmanship, and let the kids join in the workshops. A souvenir from one of the village's art pottery workshops will be perfect before having lunch at a charming restaurant overlooking the Sarthe.

🌳 We finish the day by crossing the green hills of the Loir Valley to reach La Flèche, where you can enjoy a peaceful setting.

🏡 For the night: Stay at La Terrasse du Loir , an ideal place to rest after this wonderful 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 an unforgettable encounter with 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, a 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 ✨ Do you love the Véloscénie and Vélobuissonnière adventure? Discover Paris - Tours!