An Inviting Invitation for Cyclists
With the recent excitement surrounding the men’s Tour de France finale and the women’s Tour departure from Saumur, the Atlantic Loire Valley is gearing up to be the next buzzing cycle haven for 2025-26. This scenic region, known as Pays de la Loire, is promising a cyclist’s paradise with its extensive network of cycling routes.
Cycling Highlights in the Atlantic Loire Valley
The Atlantic Loire Valley boasts six primary cycling routes that extend over a staggering 3,400 km of well-marked paths, catering to riders of all skill levels. These routes—the Loire à Vélo, Vélodyssée, Vélo Francette, Vélobuissonnière, Régalante, and Vélidéale—each come with unique charm and appeal.
Celebrating Cycling Routes
This year marks particularly special anniversaries for two prominent trails:
- 20th Anniversary of the Loire à Vélo: A 900km path winding through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Loire Valley. Cyclists are in for a treat exploring its lush landscapes, vineyards, historical towns, and castles like Montreuil-Bellay, celebrating its millennium.
- 10th Anniversary of the Vélo Francette: A 600km route from Normandy to La Rochelle, ideal for discovering picturesque villages along the tranquil River Mayenne.
New Additions and Expansions
The ever-evolving landscape of cycling in the region is apparent with exciting expansions in several routes:
Vélobuissonnière Enhancements
Sarthe, in the northeastern district of Pays de la Loire, is transforming old railway lines into “greenways.” Recently, 29km of greenways have been developed, linking La Suze-sur-Sarthe to La Flèche, enhancing the 250km Vélobuissonnière route.
Discovering New Trails
New routes like Régalante, which links Mont-Saint-Michel to Nantes, encourage cyclists to indulge in local food specialities. The Vélidéale, starting from Saint-Nazaire and traversing Nantes, invites riders to savor artisanal wines while appreciating the unparalleled landscapes.
Upgraded Cycling Facilities
The Vélodyssée, now certified as a Eurovélo route, is worth mentioning as it has received numerous improvements to make the journey smoother and more enjoyable. About 76% of this 1,300km route is reserved for bicycles, vastly enhancing the overall cycling experience.
Route Name | Distance (km) | Significant Highlights |
---|---|---|
Loire à Vélo | 900 | UNESCO sites, scenic vineyards |
Vélo Francette | 600 | Peaceful villages, river views |
Vélobuissonnière | 250 | Greenways, scenic landscapes |
Régalante | 275 | Local food experiences |
Vélidéale | N/A | Cultural experiences from Saint-Nazaire |
Vélodyssée | 1,300 | Brittany to Basque Coast |
Festivals and Events in the Region
Riding enthusiasts will also be thrilled about the returning Nature Is Bike festival in 2026, promoting gravel biking and outdoor activities. This is a perfect opportunity to explore the 1,000km of bikepacking gravel trails available from March to November.
Bringing It All Together
The Atlantic Loire Valley presents an appealing blend of scenic cycling, rich history, and gastronomic delights, making it a top contender for the ultimate cycling experience in 2025-26. Whether it’s for the stunning routes or new biking festivals, there’s no shortage of adventure awaiting cyclists.
Even with the wealth of information available, there’s a certain charm about experiencing these routes personally. GetTransfer.com simplifies travel planning, offering a wide array of vehicles and services, ensuring that you no longer have to worry about logistics. From verified providers to competitive pricing, GetTransfer.com is your go-to for booking customized transfers that fit your journey’s unique needs. Relax and focus on the experience while knowing transport is taken care of.
As the cycling community gathers momentum, the Atlantic Loire Valley is all set to shine in the coming seasons. For trips to this enchanting destination, remember to take advantage of GetTransfer’s comprehensive offerings, ensuring you have the very best in terms of comfort and reliability during your travels. Prepare to Book your Ride with GetTransfer.com today!
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