Cycling guides and maps for the Pays de la Loire
The Pays de la Loire by bike
Want to explore the Pays de la Loire region by bike? With over 3,000 km of marked routes spanning the ocean, the Loire River, vineyards, and châteaux, the region offers a wealth of information. Whether you’re planning a long journey or a family loop, the right guides and maps are your best allies for exploring, finding your way, and fully enjoying each stage.
Explore the riches of the Pays de la Loire
From the Atlantic beaches to the banks of the Loire, from the Poitevin marshes to the rolling hills of Haut-Anjou, the Pays de la Loire region offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore by bicycle. Whether you’re a seasoned cycle tourist or a fan of family outings, the region is a constant invitation to a slow journey, along the water, through vineyards, and through heritage.
People come to Pays de la Loire for the gentle way of life, but also for the wealth of Loire Valley châteaux to cycle through, picturesque villages like Clisson or Montsoreau, abbeys, fishing ports, and gourmet markets. Cycling in Pays de la Loire also means stopping at wineries, relaxing on terraces in the shade of lime trees, or taking impromptu swims in a quiet river.
The great cycling routes in Pays de la Loire
- The Loire by Bike: This is the undisputed star of cycling routes in the Loire Valley. This 900-km Loire by Bike route crosses the Pays de la Loire region from Saumur to Saint-Nazaire. You’ll discover the Loire Valley châteaux by bike, troglodyte dwellings, suspension bridges, and wide river beaches. The stages of the Loire by Bike are varied, with short sections perfect for a family getaway.
- The Vélodyssée: Along the coast, this cycle route runs along the Atlantic from Roscoff to Hendaye. In the Pays de la Loire region, it connects Saint-Nazaire to La Tranche-sur-Mer, via Pornic, La Bernerie, and Les Sables d’Olonne. Pine forests, fishing ports, beaches, and salt marshes punctuate the route. A must-see for enjoying the sea air with the wind in your hair!
- The Vélo Francette : From the English Channel and down to the Atlantic, the Vélo Francette® cycle route lets you discover the flavors of a gentle France, crossing the Pays de la Loire region as well as Normandy and Poitou-Charentes.
- La Vélobuissonnière : Slightly lesser-known but full of charm, it connects Alençon to Saumur via Le Mans and the bocages of Sarthe. It crosses the Loire Valley by bike and offers a unique link between Normandy and Anjou.
- La Régalante : A recent route, it connects Nantes to Mont-Saint-Michel by crossing the Couesnon Valley and cycling along the Loire. Perfect for connecting the great heritage routes.
The essential products to prepare your itinerary
Here is a selection of recommended guides and maps for exploring the Pays de la Loire by bike:
- The complete Loire à Vélo route from Ouest-France: Accurate, waterproof, with accommodation and tourist information.
- Chamina’s Loire Valley Châteaux Cycling Loops: 12 routes between 25 and 78 km around the Loire Valley châteaux, with practical information and IGN data.
- IGN Maine-et-Loire Map: Ideal for exploring Maine-et-Loire, it offers a variety of hiking and cycling trails, allowing you to discover its châteaux and vineyards.
- La Vélodyssée Guide from Bikeline: Find highly detailed maps, accommodation, and information on the French section of EuroVélo 1, the Atlantic Coast Route.
These resources are invaluable for planning your itinerary, discovering local attractions, or choosing your stops with complete peace of mind.
An exceptional cycle network in Pays de la Loire
With over 3,000 km of marked trails, the Pays de la Loire region boasts one of the most extensive and accessible networks in France. Fully signposted, maintained, and connected to train stations and bike accommodation, it offers family-friendly, gentle, or athletic cycling, depending on your preferences.
The network is based on:
- Greenways (former railways, towpaths)
- Low-traffic shared roads
- Inter-route connections between the coast and the hinterland
Regional investment in cycling in the Pays de la Loire region has accelerated in recent years, with consistent signage, bicycle parking in tourist areas, and tailored services: luggage transport, one-way rentals, TER trains + bicycles, etc.
This efficient network connects major cities (Nantes, Angers, Le Mans, etc.) as well as rural or natural areas such as the Marais Poitevin, the banks of the Loire, and the Vendée coast.