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Duration
7 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 6 nights in a combination of B&Bs and 2-3 star hotels
Meals
  • 6 Breakfasts

Price

$1290USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: NLV

Trip highlights


  • Cycling on the newest section of the 'Loire a velo' cycle path
  • Visiting towns and villages from Burgundy to the Centre
  • Passing some of the region's most spectacular chateaux
  • Cycling through nature reserves and vineyards including Sancerre
  • Enjoying the culinary specialities of the region

Discover the wild side of the Loire, which mankind has tried to tame with canals and bridges, on the newest section of the 'Loire à vélo' cycle path between Nevers in Burgundy and Orléans in the Centre region. This cycling trip will take you over the oldest bridge on the Loire River, through nature reserves and vineyards, and passes by some of the region's most spectacular chateaux. As you cycle along the canals you will have the opportunity to admire the unspoilt surrounds and there is also plenty of time to explore and soak in the atmosphere of the delightful villages during the evenings. The journey ends in Orléans, the city of 'Art and History', which is best known as the town saved from the English by Joan of Arc.

For those keen to continue exploring the Loire by bike this trip can be combined with our 13 day Cycle the Loire - Orléans to the Atlantic Coast.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

Nevers is a charming town at the confluence of the Loire and Nievre rivers and has many historic buildings despite being heavily bombed in WWII. Its typical ‘faience’ (pottery) workshops date from the 16th century and the Ducal Palace is considered to be one of the first chateaux of the Loire. The Magny-Cours circuit, a Formula 1 racetrack until 2008, is nearby. Nevers is also a place of pilgrimage as it is where Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes became a nun at St Gildard convent, dying here in 1879. She was beatified and later canonised in 1933. Nevers market days are Tuesday-Friday mornings and all day Saturday, at Marché Carnot.

Meals:  Nil

Departing Nevers, you cycle first to Cuffy, which is the official start point of the 'Loire a velo', then heading north, you continue to the monastic city of Charité-sur-Loire and ride on the oldest bridge of the Loire, dating from the 16th century, into the centre. Surrounded by ramparts, La Charité-sur-Loire is famous for its Clunisian priory, founded in the 11th century. This Benedictine monastery, along with its church, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. La Charité-sur-Loire is on the Way of St James, the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Ascent 26m/85ft, descent 57m/187ft

Meals:  B

Your day starts with a cycle through the Loire Valley National Nature Reserve, then you can admire the vineyards and the bell tower of the Pouilly-sur-Loire church. From Pouilly you continue between fields and woods towards the famous Sancerre vineyards. We recommend a stop to visit a local wine producer, to sample a glass of Sancerre blanc (sauvignon blanc) with a tasting of the typical Chavignol chevre. A medieval hilltop town, Sancerre is overlooked by its 15th century 'Tour des Fiefs', a remaining tower of the feudal chateau. Ascent 171m/561ft, descent 27m/85ft

Meals:  B

You leave Sancerre along the tow path of the Canal Lateral towards Bennay, before reaching Cosne-sur-Loire, a town known for its flowers and offering beautiful landscapes over the Loire river. From here you follow the 'Loire a velo' to Belleville-sur Loire, Beaulieu-sur-Loire and finally your destination for today, Briare. Bordered by 72 lamp posts and magnificent pillars, its canal bridge is a 'must-see' monument, a unique structure - and until 2003, it was the longest canal bridge in Europe. Ascent 54m/178ft, descent 57m/187ft

Meals:  B

Cycle over the Loire on the 'canal bridge' and proceed to Saint Brisson-sur-Loire, which has a medieval chateau with catapults and cannons. Continue to the city of Gien, which was heavily bombed in WWII and has since been rebuilt, and enjoy its exceptional panoramic view. In the afternoon you cycle to Sully-sur-Loire, which has a remarkable chateau surrounded by moats overlooking the river, where you stay overnight. Ascent 26m/85ft, descent 57m/187ft

Meals:  B

You can enjoy panoramic views as you cycle to Saint Benoit-sur-Loire. Its abbey is one of the most renowned Romanesque churches of France and it has been a place of pilgrimage since 673, when relics of St Benedict were brought here. Ride to Chateauneuf-sur-Loire, one of the major ports of the Loire during the 18th century. Finish in Orleans, the 'City of Art and History', saved by Joan of Arc from the siege of the Plantagenets during the Hundred Years' War in 1429. Ascent 26m/85ft, descent 57m/187ft

Meals:  B

Your trip concludes after breakfast, or you can continue cycling on our Cycle the Loire - Orleans to the Atlantic Coast.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 6 breakfasts - breakfasts are continental style and consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices.
  • 6 nights in a combination of B&B's and 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (option to upgrade to 3-4 star hotels and B&Bs, supplement applies)
  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps, roadbook and GPS Tracks
  • 21 speed mens or ladies bike equipped with two panniers, helmet, anti-theft device, bike computer and repair kit (e-bikes available - supplement applies)
  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
  • Tourist tax
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Nevers and from Orleans
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • E-bike hire, supplement applies
  • Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess Luggage
  • Handlebar phone holder – we recommend bringing your own to follow the route more easily using the app
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Printed documents are available - additional cost applies. Must be requested and will be provided locally at the joining hotel. Please ask our consultant for details.

Bike information


Grading

introductory to moderate  

INTRODUCTORY to MODERATE – GRADE 2 Daily cycles are between 31 and 50km / 19 and 31mi on flat to undulating terrain. The cycling is on a combination of dedicated cycle paths and low traffic side roads. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.


Departure dates

Daily from 15 Apr to 15 Oct

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1290USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Electric Bike SupplementUSD$130
  • Upgrade Supplement (3-4 star hotels & B&Bs)USD$190
  • Single Supplement - standard hotelsUSD$450
  • Solo Traveller Supplement - standard hotelsUSD$480
  • Solo traveller supplement - upgrade hotelsUSD$650
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

Videos

Cycling the Loire Valley & Burgundy | France Tours | UTracks

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