BOUCLE VÉLO PORTS DE LOIRE

Please note: the levée route between Saint-Florent-le-Vieil and Montjean-sur-Loire is closed from June 26 to September 8. Take the "Vallée de la Thau" route to Saint-Florent-le-Vieil and Montjean-sur-Loire. 1, 2, 3 pédalez ! Enjoy the peace and quiet of the banks of the Loire and the scenery that awaits you on this flat, perfectly signposted route, suitable for young and old alike... You'll be spoilt for choice during the 1h30 (30km) ride along the royal river. Get on your bike from the Cap Loire parking lot (Parc de découverte des marins d?eau douce : les mariniers) in Montjean-sur-Loire. Head for St Florent le Vieil: - either by following the levee along the Loire River - or, on leaving Montjean-sur-Loire, opt for a safe, family-friendly alternative through the flooded Thau valley, a Natura 2000 area. This itinerary offers a quieter route in the midst of nature, with wetlands that are home to numerous bird species You arrive in St-Florent-le-Vieil, a charming Petite Cité de Caractère. Don't miss the abbey church and the magnificent view several meters above the Loire. On the opposite bank, you can also admire the village of La Meilleraie and the Palais Briau in Varades. The return journey is on the right bank of the Loire, taking small country roads as close to the river as possible. You cross the Loire at Ingrandes - Le Fresne sur Loire, a typical village and historic frontier between Brittany and Anjou. The village of Ingrandes was a salt-smuggling center during the Gabelle era... (Caution: crossing bridges without special facilities). Other loops around the Loire à Vélo circuit exist in the region. A great alternative for exploring the countryside and heritage! Bike rentals are available from Montjean sur Loire: call the ôsez-Mauges Tourist Office on 02 41 72 62 32.