To reconnect with nature, what could be better than a weekend by bike? Ride at your own pace along the banks of the Loire to discover exceptional natural sites.
Day 1: Cycling along the river
Does La Loire à vélo ring a bell? It’s undoubtedly one of France’s best-known cycle tourism itineraries, and a must when visiting the region. Stretching over 800 kilometers, the Loire à vélo offers a panorama of exceptional landscapes. Although the Loire does not pass through Angers itself, it is very close by. Whether you’re a keen cyclist or a day-tripper, strap on your helmet, fill up your water bottle and saddle up! We’ll take you on a tour of the Loire Valley loop by bike.
Start at Parc Balzac in Angers! A forty-kilometer route awaits you. As you’ll have noticed during your first pedal strokes, before reaching the Loire, you’ll first cycle along the river Maine, from where you can easily observe swans, and you’ll soon arrive at Lac de Maine, a soothing spot on the outskirts of the city. Continue your walk and make your first stop at La Piverdière in Bouchemaine. This 7-hectare natural site offers a unique view of the Maine River and the lower Anjou valleys from its belvedere (accessible on foot from the towpath). After this short break, head for the village of Bouchemaine. If you feel like it, you can continue on to La Pointe, a former bargemen’s village at the confluence of the Maine and Loire rivers.
Do you like small towns full of character, flowers and charm? Then, without further ado, make a stopover on theisland of Béhuard. This commune, located on an island in the Loire, is closed to cars, making your discovery even more pleasant and authentic. Here, take your time to wander through the cobbled streets at your own pace!
Wine and vineyard lovers? Pedal on for a few kilometers and discover Savennières, its old town and vineyards. Don’t hesitate to visit the wineries open to the public for a tasting* of AOC Savennières, an exceptional white wine! Something to delight your taste buds!
Cyclists by the water
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After a short stopover in Béhuard and Savennières, head back towards Bouchemaine in the direction of Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire. On the way, take time to admire the beauty of the surrounding countryside and enjoy a well-deserved picnic on the banks of the Loire, or stop off at the Port-Thibault guinguette. After this moment of relaxation, it’s only a few more pedal strokes before you discover the gardens of Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire. With its aromatic plants, vines and olive trees, the Mediterranean garden is a little corner of paradise offering an exceptional panorama of the Loire.
Wind in your hair, free as a bird, head for Les Ponts-de-Cé and then La Daguenière. Head up towards Trélazé to reach a natural site covering almost 300 hectares: the Ardoisières. The azure-colored water features give the site a character as singular as it is enchanting! Enjoy the tranquility of the site for a few moments, and get away from it all! Don’t hesitate to push open the door of the Musée de l’Ardoise, where you can watch a live demonstration of slate splitting.
This first day of cycling along the banks of the Loire is already drawing to a close. The finish line is approaching, and we’re off to downtown Angers!
Notre-Dame church
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Day 2: Cycling between city and countryside
After a good night’s rest, you’re ready for another day’s cycling. While Angers boasts exceptional natural landscapes along the banks of the Loire, its city center is also well worth a visit!
There’s no need to leave your trusty cycling companion – Angers is easy to visit by bike! Start by exploring the cobbled streets that give the city center its unique charm. Rue du Musée is a perfect example. Continue on to Place Saint-Eloi to admire a magnificent sculpture enthroned in the middle of the square! Opposite you is the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Push open the door for a colorful journey through the works of art. After your visit, take a break in a quiet corner away from the hustle and bustle of the city center: the Musée des Beaux-Arts garden.
It’s already time to get back on your bike, because just a few pedal strokes away is the Château d’Angers, the city’s most emblematic site, and home to a treasure unique in the world: the Apocalypse hanging. Stretching over 100 meters in length, this imposing tapestry, listed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World register, will leave you breathless! Take a stroll through the château’s gardens, surrounded by aromatic plants and vines! At the end of your visit, don’t forget to take a stroll along the Promenade du Bout du Monde, for a breathtaking view of the town and the Maine River.
Need to recharge your batteries for lunch? The area around the château is full of top-quality restaurants , so you’ll be spoilt for choice!
Grab your trusty steed, it’s time to cross the Maine to the Musée Jean Lurçat and its contemporary tapestry. An enchanting place! Pedal on towards the charming Doutre district, a peaceful corner with a village atmosphere just a stone’s throw from the city! Place de la Paix, Place du Tertre-Saint-Laurent… Take the time to stroll through this historic district and admire its charming half-timbered houses. Set course for the cale de la Savatte, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city! What better way to end this second day than on the banks of the Maine? Head for the Héron Carré guinguette for a moment of relaxation and conviviality in a spot of greenery!
La Doutre
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How about extending your weekend?
Tempting, isn’t it? And you won’t get bored here! Here are a few more ideas for slow-paced cycling and water-based activities:
- You can opt for a cruise on the Loire, with Loire Odyssée or Terre et Loire. Whether you opt for a one- or two-hour discovery cruise during the day, or an aperitif cruise for gourmets, these boat trips will give you a new insight into the unspoilt landscapes of the wild Loire. A complete change of scenery!
- For those brave cyclists who’ve still got some pedal power left, you can be tempted by a 52 km loop between the Loire and Aubance rivers. This ride takes you through charming villages, castles and churches. The many vantage points over the Loire Valley mean you’ll need to make several stops to take in the beauty of the scenery.
Selection of accommodation for your weekend in Angers :
Need some good addresses? Find what you’re looking for in our selection ofhotels, gîtes and Accueil Vélo® label accommodation:
A great tip for smart sightseeing:
The Angers City Pass 72h is practical and economical, allowing you to discover the Château d’Angers, the Musée Jean Lurçat and the Musée des Beaux-Arts! Visiting Angers in 24 or 48 hours? Choose the pass that matches the length of your stay!
*ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS FOR YOUR HEALTH. CONSUME IN MODERATION.
