La Vélo Francette, from Normandy to the Atlantic by bike

From the Loire to the Atlantic, there’s a cycle route that has remained untouched by mass tourism: the Vélofrancette. This authentic itinerary invites you to immerse yourself in France’s terroirs, where each stage reveals a new chapter in our natural and architectural heritage.

The adventure begins in the Loire Valley at Saumur, where troglodytic cellars and châteaux tell the story of the vineyards’ age-old history. The hillsides of the Saumur region roll out their rows of vines as far as the eye can see, inviting you to stop and savour the flavours of centuries-old estates. Along the way, the landscapes slowly change, valleys give way to plains, while villages with character punctuate your progress with their soaring bell towers.

The jewel in the crown of this tour awaits you in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, aptly nicknamed the “Green Venice”. This aquatic labyrinth reveals its treasures: Coulon, the capital of this exceptional region, the majestic abbey of Maillezais emerging from the canals, and the picturesque village of Arçais. The Sèvre Niortaise becomes your lifeline to the gates of La Rochelle, where the towers of the Old Port mark the end of your odyssey.

Essential questions to help you prepare your escape :

When to start the Vélofrancette?

Choose the period from April to October, with an emphasis on May-June and September, to take advantage of nature in full bloom and mild weather.

What level of expertise is required?

The route, which is mostly flat with a few undulations, is suitable for all cyclists, even occasional ones.

How long will it take?

Our 5- to 7-day breaks allow you to discover each region with peace of mind.

What type of bike do you recommend?

A VTC or hybrid bike adapts perfectly to the different surfaces encountered.

What about luggage?

Our transport service takes them from one stage to the next on a daily basis.

Where to stop off?

Carefully selected, charming accommodation awaits you: 2-3 star hotels and authentic bed & breakfasts.

Why take part in the Vélofrancette adventure with Randovelo?

Our in-depth knowledge of this confidential itinerary guarantees a tailor-made experience, with hand-picked accommodation, daily luggage transport, a detailed route book and round-the-clock assistance. Your only concern? Savouring every moment of this unique crossing between the Loire and the ocean.

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Poitevin Marsh by bike: from Niort to La Rochelle

It is hard to resist to the charming power of the “Green Venice”!

Starting from Niort, ride your bike along the little shady canals of the Poitevin Marsh (Regional Nature Reserve), and go with the flow, listening to the babbling water, and the chirping birds.
Discover Coulon, the Green Venice capital village, and follow the interlacing of bicycle paths in the midst of the “Marais Mouillés”, to the ancient abbey of Maillezais and the charming village of Arçais.
The large sea canals safely lead you to the grand finale, the Towers of the Vieux-Port in La Rochelle.

5 days / 3 days riding / ref. VF2
Difficulty Easy

from 620 €

Linear trip / 3 testimonials

La Vélo Francette: cycle tour from Saumur to La Rochelle

A superb route over the water, from Loire Valley to the Atlantic Ocean via the Sèvre Niortaise.

Discover an authentic route and off the beaten track for a road movie “Sweet France”, between pretty villages and charming countryside. From Saumur and its vineyards to the Atlantic and La Rochelle via the “Green Venice” of the Marais Poitevin, this circuit reveals many architectural treasures with many cities of character and a bucolic and preserved landscape.

7 days / 5 days riding / ref. VF1
Difficulty Moderate

from 990 €

Linear trip / 2 testimonials

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