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Many small boats on the shore of a watercourse of the Brière marshes

Loire Cycle Path, Orléans – Saint Nazaire

Wild-romantic all the way to the sea

10 Days / 9 Nights
Medium
184  kg
CO₂-Emissions are offset
Many small boats on the shore of a watercourse of the Brière marshes

Royal, romantic, idyllic, vibrant, relaxed - our 10-day cycle tour along the Loire, which starts in melodious Orléans and ends in picturesque Saint Nazaire on the Atlantic coast, is all this and much more. Explore with us the famous castles, the artistic gardens, the wildly beautiful landscape and the great cities. But don't forget the pleasures of the French way of life!

When people think of Orléans, they often associate the originally Celtic city with Joan of Arc, who saved the city in 1429. The eventful history is reflected in many sights, such as the Cathedral. Linger a little at the delightful Place du Martroi before setting off with your energies charged.

Blois, Tours, Chinon, Nantes and, last but not least, Saint Nazaire: on your journey you will discover beautiful, lively cities where French traditions blend beautifully with modernity. France is world famous for its cuisine and Loire Valley for its regional specialities. Taste tarte tatin, quince jelly, goat cheese and, as you get closer to the Atlantic, the specialities of the sea and, of course, the first-class wines.

  • The impressive cultural monuments of the Loire castles: Around 400 castles make this region so unique and spectacular. You will get to know the Cháteau d'Amboise, among others, which was converted from a medieval fort to a Renaissance château and where Leonardo da Vinci also spent some years. The castles of Villandry, Lengeais and Saumur are also on the route.
  • Idyllic natural experience: The few climbs on the tour provide magnificent views of the Loire Valley. The Loire is not slowed down by any dams or locks here; it is one of the last rivers to flow completely freely. From Nantes onwards, you can increasingly notice the maritime influences before the wildly beautiful Atlantic coast spreads out before you.
  • Lively French towns: explore Blois by coach, visit one of the wine cellars around Chinon, stroll through the alleys of Saint-Florent-de-Vieil and visit one of the world's largest shipyards in Saint Nazaire - one thing we can promise you: you will come home with countless memories.
  • A bold leap into the waves of the Atlantic: Beautiful seaside resorts, sandy and rocky coastlines - at this point, the Atlantic not only invites you to swim, but also to linger. If possible, add a few more days to your beach holiday...

The route runs mostly along cycle paths or quiet side roads, the quality of which is very good. We provide you with detailed travel documents that will help you to easily reach all destinations. The tour is suitable for cyclists of all abilities, the 40 to 75 km long stages have only a few steep inclines.

  • Tips, tours and interesting facts about the Loire Cycle Path can be found here.
Book now
To the online version
Many small boats on the shore of a watercourse of the Brière marshes

Loire Cycle Path, Orléans – Saint Nazaire

Wild-romantic all the way to the sea

10 Days / 9 Nights
Medium
184  kg
CO₂-Emissions are offset
Many small boats on the shore of a watercourse of the Brière marshes

France’s longest river is also one of the last free-flowing rivers in Europe—wild, beautiful, and captivating is the landscape between Tours and Saint-Nazaire. Magnificent castles like Villandry and Saumur, with their architectural charm and splendid gardens, lie along your route. Stroll through colorful markets and savor aromatic local specialties as you rest in the idyllic Loire villages. The region’s vineyards shape both the landscape and the cuisine, and you’ll cycle repeatedly through gentle rolling wine hills. The larger towns of Angers and Nantes enchant with their picturesque old towns. Finally, you’ll reach Saint-Nazaire and the spectacular Atlantic coast.

When people think of Orléans, they often associate the originally Celtic city with Joan of Arc, who saved the city in 1429. The eventful history is reflected in many sights, such as the Cathedral. Linger a little at the delightful Place du Martroi before setting off with your energies charged.

Blois, Tours, Chinon, Nantes and, last but not least, Saint Nazaire: on your journey you will discover beautiful, lively cities where French traditions blend beautifully with modernity. France is world famous for its cuisine and Loire Valley for its regional specialities. Taste tarte tatin, quince jelly, goat cheese and, as you get closer to the Atlantic, the specialities of the sea and, of course, the first-class wines.

  • The impressive cultural monuments of the Loire castles: Around 400 castles make this region so unique and spectacular. You will get to know the Cháteau d'Amboise, among others, which was converted from a medieval fort to a Renaissance château and where Leonardo da Vinci also spent some years. The castles of Villandry, Lengeais and Saumur are also on the route.
  • Idyllic natural experience: The few climbs on the tour provide magnificent views of the Loire Valley. The Loire is not slowed down by any dams or locks here; it is one of the last rivers to flow completely freely. From Nantes onwards, you can increasingly notice the maritime influences before the wildly beautiful Atlantic coast spreads out before you.
  • Lively French towns: explore Blois by coach, visit one of the wine cellars around Chinon, stroll through the alleys of Saint-Florent-de-Vieil and visit one of the world's largest shipyards in Saint Nazaire - one thing we can promise you: you will come home with countless memories.
  • A bold leap into the waves of the Atlantic: Beautiful seaside resorts, sandy and rocky coastlines - at this point, the Atlantic not only invites you to swim, but also to linger. If possible, add a few more days to your beach holiday...

The route runs mostly along cycle paths or quiet side roads, the quality of which is very good. We provide you with detailed travel documents that will help you to easily reach all destinations. The tour is suitable for cyclists of all abilities, the 40 to 75 km long stages have only a few steep inclines.

  • Tips, tours and interesting facts about the Loire Cycle Path can be found here.

Itinerary at a glance

Start in Orléans - enjoy the wildly beautiful nature of the Loire Valley. Around 400 châteaux characterize the region, and the cities, such as Chinon and Blois, are in no way inferior. Finally, do you dare to jump into the Atlantic Ocean?

Hotel (example): Des Cedres

The first day is perfect for the start of the cycle tour. Perfectly signposted, leading on flat terrain throughout and featuring best trail conditions the Loire-cycle path presents its best side. Beautiful views onto the river, the off majestic villa and little palaces keep you on your toes en route to Blois. Apart from the palace the cathedral, the beautifully restored historic centre and the stone bridge across the river Loire are especially worth a visit.

Hotel (example): Ibis Styles Centre Gare

Fascinating views onto the gold-shimmering sandbanks of the Loire and with the characteristic cliff dwellings of this region are lying in front of you. Half way along the route the most royal palace of all Loire-palaces awaits: Amboise palace. It was home to five kings and one Roman emperor. Also a genius from the 16th century, Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last few years here in Amboise, draws attention to it. You can also visit his manor. You proceed along the shores of the Loire until Tours.

Hotel (example): Hampton by Hilton

The river Cher, a Loire tributary, leads you directly to Villandry palace with its terraced gardens. Certainly, you should not miss paying a visit to this famous installation. Every visitor will be amazed by the shadowy footpaths, the flower-bedecked bowers, the fountains and the artistically laid out vegetable gardens. Some kilometres further on you will exchange the bank of the Cher for the bank of the famous Loire. And again you will be tempted by the next castle – Langeais. From the top of the fortified tower (this castle exclusively served for military purposes) you will see the river and its whole surroundings lying in front of you. Via small villages and on side roads you will reach today’s Day Finish – Chinon, impressing visitors with its mighty castle complex.

Hotel (example): Ibis Styles

You leave Chinon with its medieval alleyways and follow the river Vienne to Candes-St. Martin. A charming stroll through the village up to the highest point of the hill enables an impressive view onto the confluence of both rivers Vienne and Loire. Shortly before arriving in Saumur there is a special highlight. The bike path leads right through the mystic rockhouses of Souzey. We highly recommend another panoramic view onto the vast Loire-valley later from Saumur palace.

Hotel (example): Hotel Kyriad Saumur Centre

After some kilometres you enter the vineyards situated at the southern shores of the Loire.  On gentle hills you cycle right through the wineyards. Back again at the coast you cycle through quiet, medieval villages towards your next big Day Finish Angers. Be inspired by the lively university town situated at the Maine. In case this tour is too strenuous for you, you can bypass the route by train from Saumur onwards.

Hotel (example): Le Progres

Angers is situtated on the river Maine, the final significant tributary of the Loire before the Atlantic. You follow this river until is joins the river Loire at La Pointe-Bouchemaine. You continue along the foot of a slate-granite massif until Savennières featuring the oldest church of the region. Some of the best wines of the Loire-valley are grown here, fruity, dry white wines – we recommend a visit to one of the vintners. From La Poissonnière the route leads you via dykes with wonderful views onto the river Loire into the trim little town  Saint-Florent-le-Vieil.

Hotel (example): Logis Hostellerie la Gabelle

Another day along the Loire river through continuously changing scenery awaits. The Loire now finally enters Brittany and carves through slate- and granit rocks all the way to Nantes. The cycle path changes the side of the river several times, which also includes tackling a few smaller ascents – which again rewards you with beautiful views. The Loire ‚escorts‘ you into the centre of the historic capital of Brittany, Nantes. Although the Loire estuary into the Atlantic is another 70 km away the influence of the sea is already noticable and visible. 

Hotel (example): Mercure Grand Hotel

Now the river becomes ever wider, the scenery increasingly placid. You proceed through little villages always  to the Loire ending in the Atlantic Ocean. Only the impressive bridge over the Loire River seperates you from Saint Nazaire. Visit the Atlantic shipyard, which is one of the largest ship building corporations in the world, or the submarine bunker, which is also accessible by bike.

Hotel (example): Comfort Hotel de l'Europe

Day
10

Departure or extension

Itinerary at a glance

Start in Orléans - enjoy the wildly beautiful nature of the Loire Valley. Around 400 châteaux characterize the region, and the cities, such as Chinon and Blois, are in no way inferior. Finally, do you dare to jump into the Atlantic Ocean?

Hotel (example): Des Cedres

The first day is perfect for kicking off your cycling tour. The Loire Cycle Route is exceptionally well-marked, completely flat, and boasts excellent path conditions, showcasing its charm from the very beginning. Along the way to Blois, you’ll enjoy stunning river views, elegant villas, and charming small castles. In Blois, highlights include the château, the magnificent cathedral, the beautifully restored old town, and the iconic stone bridge spanning the Loire.

Hotel (example): Ibis Styles Centre Gare

Today, you’ll be treated to fascinating views of the golden-hued sandbanks of the Loire and the region’s distinctive cliff dwellings. Halfway through your journey, you’ll encounter the most regal of all Loire castles: Château d’Amboise. This majestic residence once hosted five kings and a Roman emperor. It also draws attention as the final home of a 16th-century genius—Leonardo da Vinci—whose manor here is open to visitors. From there, you’ll continue cycling along the banks of the Loire to reach Tours.

Hotel (example): Hampton by Hilton

With Villandry Castle and its beautiful gardens, an impressive highlight awaits you after the first few kilometres of cycling, before you pass the next castle, Lengeais, on the banks of the Loire. Once used solely for military purposes, its watchtower offers a spectacular view of the river. Passing through charming villages and along quiet country roads, you’ll reach your destination for the day: Chinon, with its impressive hilltop fortress.

Hotel (example): Ibis Styles

You bid farewell to Chinon and its winding medieval alleyways, following the Vienne River to the charming village of Candes-Saint-Martin. Just before reaching your destination, a special highlight awaits: the bike path takes you right through the mythical cave dwellings of Souzay. Then, cap off the day with a sweeping panoramic view of the Loire Valley from the majestic Château de Saumur.

Hotel (example): Hotel Kyriad Saumur Centre

Just a few kilometers into today’s ride, you’ll immerse yourself in the vineyards along the southern banks of the Loire. The bike path winds gently through rolling hills, right through the heart of the wine country. Back along the river, you’ll pass through picturesque medieval villages on your way to the next highlight: the lively university town of Angers, full of charm and character.

Hotel (example): Le Progres

Angers lies on the Maine, the last major tributary of the Loire before it flows into the Atlantic. You’ll cycle along the river to its confluence with the Loire at La Pointe-Bouchemaine. Nestled at the foot of a dramatic slate and granite ridge lies Savennières, home to the region’s oldest church and renowned for its crisp, fruity white wines—a perfect place to pause and visit a local winery. From La Poissonnière, the route leads along scenic dikes to the picturesque town of Saint-Florent-le-Vieil.

Hotel (example): Logis Hostellerie la Gabelle

Another day along the Loire lies ahead, with ever-changing landscapes accompanying your journey. The river now officially enters Brittany, carving its way through slate and granite cliffs. A few climbs await, but the Loire continues to guide you all the way into the heart of the historic city of Nantes. Although the Atlantic Ocean is still about 70 kilometers (43 miles) away, its influence can already be felt—and seen—along the way.

Hotel (example): Mercure Grand Hotel

The river grows wider, and the landscape becomes increasingly tranquil. You’ll follow the Loire downstream through quiet villages all the way to its mouth at the Atlantic Ocean. Only the impressive bridge over the river separates you from Saint-Nazaire. Be sure to visit the Atlantic shipyard, one of the world’s largest shipbuilding facilities, or explore the massive submarine bunker—which you can even cycle through.

Hotel (example): Comfort Hotel de l'Europe

Day
10

Departure or extension

Difficulty level

Medium

You cycle on asphalted and gravelled cycle paths, partially also along side roads. There are only a few ascents worth mentioning to be tackled along the very well signposted route, occasionally you may encounter some headwind.

Difficulty level

Medium

You’ll cycle mostly on asphalted and well-maintained gravel paths, with occasional stretches on quiet side roads. Each stage covers up to 75 kilometers (about 45 miles), allowing plenty of time to enjoy the region’s highlights. The well-marked route features only a few moderate climbs, but in return, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. Occasionally, you may encounter some headwinds as you make your way toward the Atlantic.

Prices & Dates

Prices per person in EUR

Sustainably on the go

Our contribution to climate protection

184 kg
CO₂-Emissions are offset
With a cycling holiday, you are opting for an extremely climate-friendly form of travel. We are aware that even this generates a certain amount of CO2 emissions, even if this is low compared to other forms of travel. The emissions caused are calculated per travel and person using the internationally recognised ‘Carmacal’ CO2 calculator and offset by supporting carefully selected climate protection projects. A detailed overview of emissions in the areas of transport, accommodation, activities and on-site catering can be found here.
Accommodation (36%)
Meals (22%)
Transport (42%)
100%

Our rental bikes

Eurobike unisex rental bike with 21/24 gears
Unisex bike 21/24-speed
Dereilleur gears with freewheel

High-quality unisex touring bike with comfortable low entry

Body size approx. 148 cm - 190 cm

43 cm |
46 cm |
51 cm |
56 cm
Eurobike Men's Rental Bike with 21 gears
Men's bike 21-speed
Dereilleur gears with freewheel

High-quality men's touring bike with classic diamond frame

Body size approx. 165 cm - 205 cm

56-51 "sloping" cm |
60 cm |
64 cm
Eurobike Rental Bike PLUS
Rental Bike PLUS 20/27-speed
Dereilleur gears with freewheel

Sportier, lighter and more precise premium rental bike with diamond frame

Body size approx. 155 cm - 205 cm

46 cm |
50 cm |
51 cm |
55 cm |
60 cm |
63 cm
Eurobike e-bike rental from KTM
Unisex Electric Bike 8-speed
Hub gears

High-quality unisex electric bike with comfortable low entry

Body size approx. 148 cm - 195 cm

46 cm "xs" |
46 cm |
51 cm |
56 cm

Services & Information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation in 3***-hotels (French classification)
  • Breakfast
  • Luggage transfer
  • EUROBIKE developed route
  • Detailed travel documents 1x per room (German, English, French)
  • App for Navigation and GPS-data
  • Service hotline

Optional

  • Bike rental, including rental bike insurance!
  • Return transfer by minibus to Tours or Orléans every Saturday morning, costs per person to Tours EUR 105,- or to Orléans EUR 129,-, costs for your own bike EUR 39,-, reservation is necessary, to be paid in advance

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Orléans, Tours or St. Nazaire train station
  • Airport Paris
  • Parking in Tours: Hotel parking garage, costs approx. EUR 15 per day, public garage, costs approx. EUR 12 per day
  • Parking in Orléans: public parking garage, costs approx. EUR 5 per day
  • The return journey by public transport on weekends from St. Nazaire via Tours to Orléans, is possible without changing trains, free bike transport

Thinigs to note

  • Please note that for this trip high quality, but slightly different from the description, rental bikes are provided by our local partner.
  • Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!

 

Join us in achieving greater sustainability by choosing our digital route book, rather than the printed version. As a small thank you we will give you a discount of EUR 20 per room.

Services & Information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation in 3***-hotels (French classification)
  • Breakfast
  • Welcome briefing (English)
  • Luggage transfer
  • Digital travel documents incl. navigation app, GPS-data, route book
  • Service hotline

Optional

  • Printed route book, per room EUR 20
  • Bike rental, including rental bike insurance!
  • Return transfer by minibus to Orléans every Saturday morning, costs EUR 139 per person, EUR 45 extra for your own bike, to be paid in advance, reservation is necessary

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Arrival by train to Orléans or St. Nazaire
  • Paris airport
  • Parking in Orléans: public parking garage, costs approx. EUR 5 per day
  • Departure by train from St. Nazaire to Orléans is possible at weekends without changing trains, free bike transport, duration approx. 4.5 hours

Thinigs to note

  • Please note that for this trip high quality, but slightly different from the description, rental bikes are provided by our local partner.
  • Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!

 

Travel stories for this tour

Personally on site for you

Julia Bann

"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"

Julia Bann
Team Leader of Eurobike Travel Specialists
One call to vacation bliss
Monday - Friday: 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM
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