The Loire à vélois a must for cycle tourism fans in France. With its itineraries along the river, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. But beyond the well-known stages, there’s a whole world of little gems to discover.
The popularity of cycle tourism continues to grow, and with it the desire for authentic experiences and less touristy spots. That’s what brings us here: to explore together these hidden treasures of the Loire by bike, for an adventure full of surprises.
EVAZIO plunged into this rich and diverse universe to take you away from the ordinary. They put on their helmets, adjusted their saddles and set off in search of the rare pearls that make the Loire not only a majestic river, but also an adventure populated by often little-known wonders. Here are the 12 incredible spots they’ve unearthed for you.
1. Le Moulin de l’Épinay – A historic pause where the wind recounts the memories of yesteryear
In the heart of La Chapelle-Saint-Florent stands proudly the Moulin de l’Épinaya living witness to the milling tradition. This unique windmill not only offers breathtaking views over the Loire Valley, but also invites visitors to take part in captivating milling demonstrations.
Why visit? For cyclists and hikers, it’s an opportunity to soak up the beauty and tranquility of the site, while discovering authentic local crafts.
Practical tip: The best time to visit is in the late morning, just in time for a demonstration and to enjoy the perfect light over the valley. Don’t forget to buy flour produced on site, a gourmet souvenir of your adventure.
2. Château de Chaintres vineyard – for wine lovers
Nestled in the Saumur region, the Château de Chaintres vineyard is a secret getaway for wine lovers. This family-run estate stands out for its organic production, promising authentic wines with character.
Why visit? It’s a chance for cyclists to immerse themselves in the local wine world, away from the hustle and bustle of tourism, and taste wines made with passion.
Practical tip: Book an early afternoon visit for a more intimate experience. It’s also the perfect time to explore the vineyards in the mild sunshine and conclude with a memorable tasting.
3. La Pointe de Courpain – A 360° panorama of the great outdoors
La Pointe de Courpain is a natural setting offering one of the finest panoramic views of the Loire. This viewpoint, accessible only by bike or on foot, is a well-kept secret where the river and sky meet in a grandiose spectacle.
Why visit? For cyclists and hikers, it’s a chance to escape to a haven of peace, ideal for a picnic break or simply to immerse yourself in the contemplation of nature.
Practical tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility of the site and the magical light of sunrise, offering unrivalled photos and a moment of pure serenity.
4. Jardin Médieval de Saint-Cosme, La Riche
The Jardin Médiéval de Saint-Cosmenestled in the commune of La Riche, is a haven of greenery where history and botany meet. The former home of Pierre de Ronsard, this site combines the romantic ruins of a priory with gardens inspired by medieval times.
Why visit? Cyclists and hikers will find it a place of exceptional tranquility, perfect for resting the legs while traveling back in time through the scents and colors of a historic garden.
Practical tip: The afternoon is the perfect time for a visit, when the sun illuminates the flowers and ruins, creating a magical atmosphere for relaxation and inspiration.
5. Candes-Saint-Martin, Indre-et-Loire
Candes-Saint-Martin, at the confluence of the Vienne and Loire rivers, is listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Its charm lies in its narrow streets lined with old houses and its imposing church offering a panoramic view of the two rivers.
Why visit? It’s an invitation to discovery for tourists, offering a peaceful, picturesque setting ideal for a photo break or a leisurely exploration on foot.
Practical tip: Morning is the ideal time to explore Candes-Saint-Martin, when the light gently embraces the village and the streets are still quiet, letting you appreciate all its beauty without crowds.
6. Troglo Degusto – An underground adventure for wine and curiosity lovers.
Troglo DegustoTroglo Degusto, located in Bourré, offers a unique wine-tasting experience in ancient troglodytic cellars dug into the tufa rock. This atypical venue combines the discovery of the region’s wines with the exploration of a fascinating underground heritage.
Why visit? Walkers in search of original experiences will be seduced by this immersion in the world of wine and stone, where every sip tells the story of the terroir.
Practical tip: Plan your visit for early evening to combine tasting with the mysterious atmosphere that only the troglodytic setting can offer, making the experience even more memorable.
7. L’Île de Béhuard – An island getaway for those seeking peace and serenity.
Île de Béhuard, the only inhabited island in the Loire, is a little piece of paradise accessible via a bridge. This green setting is famous for its sanctuary church and the peaceful hiking trails that wind through the island, offering breathtaking views of the river.
Why visit? It’s the perfect place for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle and recharge their batteries in a natural and spiritual setting.
Tip: The afternoon is the ideal time to visit Béhuard, when the light is soft and the island reveals all its charm, inviting you to stroll and contemplate.
8. Le Thoureil – A village frozen in time
Le Thoureil is a picturesque village that seems to have been frozen in time. With its traditional tufa stone houses and narrow streets, this village on the banks of the Loire offers a serene, nostalgic atmosphere.
Why visit it? Ideal for cyclists and hikers in search of authenticity and calm, Le Thoureil is a place where time seems to stand still, perfect for a reflective break or a leisurely stroll at the end of the day.
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon, when the sun begins to set and bathe the village in golden light, highlighting its tranquil beauty and providing an idyllic setting for a soothing end to the day.
9. Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park – A patchwork of landscapes
The Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park is a patchwork of landscapes, from dense forests to rolling vineyards, charming villages and sparkling waterways.
Why visit? For hikers eager for diversity, this park offers a multitude of settings to explore. It’s the ideal place for those looking to embrace the variety of the region’s landscapes.
Practical tip: Start your exploration early in the morning to take advantage of the freshness and calm. This is also the best time to observe wildlife and enjoy the soft light on the landscape, ideal for photography.
10. Montsoreau and its flea market – China in one of France’s most beautiful villages.
Montsoreau, listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages, is famous for its castle, which stands proudly on the banks of the Loire, and its lively flea market, which takes place every second Sunday of the month.
Why visit? The curious, travelers, bike tourists or not, who are looking for local treasures and stories will find what they’re looking for in the market stalls. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the village.
Practical tip: Arrive at the market early to pick up the best bargains before the crowds. After your finds, take time to stroll through the village streets or along the Loire River to complete your visit with a touch of relaxation and beauty.
11. La Devinière, Seuilly – In the footsteps of Rabelais, between vineyards and history.
La Devinière, in Seuilly, is the birthplace of François Rabelais, transformed into a museum dedicated to the work and life of this illustrious Renaissance writer. Surrounded by vineyards, the house immerses visitors in a unique historical and literary setting.
Why visit? Visitors with a passion for literature and history will enjoy immersing themselves in the world of Rabelais, where every room and every object tells a story. It’s also an opportunity to savor the beauty of the landscapes that inspired the author.
Practical tip: plan your visit in the morning to take advantage of the soft light that envelops the estate, ideal for a quiet yet inspiring exploration. This will also leave you free in the afternoon to explore the surrounding vineyards.
12. Les Rosiers-sur-Loire – An open-air gallery for a touch of art on your journey.
Les Rosiers-sur-Loire is distinguished by its open-air art trail, transforming the village into a veritable open-air gallery. Works of contemporary art, scattered throughout the streets and along the quays, add a unique cultural dimension to your trip.
Why visit? It’s the perfect place for cyclists and travelers who want to add an artistic touch to their adventure, discovering installations that interact harmoniously with the natural and urban environment.
Tip: The afternoon is the ideal time to explore the village and its works, when the sun illuminates the colors and shapes, creating striking contrasts. Take the time to stop at each installation to appreciate its subtlety.
Explore the Loire by bike for example, is to embark on an adventure where every pedal stroke reveals a new chapter in a rich and fascinating history. The twelve hidden treasures we’ve shared are nuggets that, far from the beaten track, promise authentic and memorable experiences. It’s unlikely that we’ll be able to discover them all in a single trip, and that’s the beauty of this adventure: it invites us to personalize and select the experiences that resonate most with our desires and thirst for adventure.
Each hidden treasure has its own story, its own unique charm that enriches not only our journey but also our perception of the Loire. We encourage you to explore these magical places at your own pace, traveling slowly to truly appreciate the beauty, surprises, and unexpected encounters along the way. Let these treasures inspire you, guide you, and who knows, maybe even transform you.
