Cycle the Velo Francette from Saumur to La Rochelle

Ride one of France's most diverse routes – the fabulous Velo Francette

The full Velo Francette links La Rochelle on the Atlantic Coast to Caen in Normandy. The section featured on this self-guided tour is one of the route's most varied – between Saumur in the Loire and the coast at La Rochelle. It's a mosaic of landscapes. Start among the castles of the Loire and ride along small backroads following the Thouet river, stopping in beautiful Parthenay, with its medieval atmosphere, then in Niort, with its ancient dungeon and cathedral. Explore the glorious nature among the softness of the Poitevin marshes, making time for a stop in Coulon, its canals and waterways weaving through the landscape. After a detour to Fontenay-le-Comte and the majestic Maillezais abbey, finish your trip in La Rochelle, the gateway to the Atlantic. The price of this self-guided tour includes bike hire, panniers, luggage transfers, detailed route information and accommodation. Electric bikes are also available on this route.

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