Cycle the Loire - Nevers to Orléans
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating seven-day journey through the heart of France, exploring the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the Loire Valley. This multi-day tour is a perfect blend of leisurely cycling, historical exploration, and wine tasting. From the charming town of Nevers, through the vineyards of Sancerre, to the 'City of Art and History', Orleans, you'll discover the timeless allure of France. Marvel at the architectural splendor of ancient chateaux, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and savor the flavors of renowned vineyards. This tour is an immersive experience into the French way of life, offering a unique blend of history, gastronomy, and natural beauty.
Included
6 breakfasts - breakfasts are continental style and consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices.
vegetarian, vegan, kosher, meat
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
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)
hotel: 6 night(s);
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)
Tourist tax
Emergency hotline
21 speed mens or ladies bike equipped with two panniers, helmet, anti-theft device, bike computer, map holder and repair kit (ebikes available - supplement applies)
In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. You will be given a puncture repair kit, to fix the issue.
Map
Attractions
Château de Sully-sur-LoireDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Nevers
- Nevers - Arrival day
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- Porte de Paris
- Palais ducal de Nevers
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Your journey begins in the picturesque town of Nevers, nestled at the confluence of the Loire and Nièvre rivers. Despite its war-torn past, Nevers is home to many historical buildings, including the Ducal Palace, one of the first chateaux of the Loire. You'll also visit the Magny-Cours circuit, a former Formula 1 racetrack, and the St Gildard convent, where Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes became a nun. Don't miss the bustling Marché Carnot, where you can experience the local market culture.
Day 2 – Day 2: Nevers to Charité-sur-Loire
- Nevers
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Departing from Nevers, you'll cycle to the village of Cuffy, the official start point of the 'Loire a velo'. From there, you'll head north to the monastic city of Charité-sur-Loire, crossing the oldest bridge of the Loire into the city center. The city is renowned for its Clunisian priory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, founded in the 11th century.
Day 3 – Day 3: Charité-sur-Loire to Sancerre
Day 3: Charité-sur-Loire to Sancerre
- Castle of Saint Brisson sur Loire
- Castle of Saint-Fargeau
- Palais ducal de Nevers
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Day three takes you through the Loire Valley National Nature Reserve, offering breathtaking views of the vineyards and the bell tower of Pouilly-sur-Loire. Continue your journey to the famous Sancerre vineyards, where you can sample the renowned Sancerre blanc and Chavignol chevre. The day ends in the medieval hilltop town of Sancerre, where you can explore the 15th-century 'Tour des Fiefs'.
Day 4 – Day 4: Sancerre to Briare
Day 4: Sancerre to Briare
- Castle of Saint Brisson sur Loire
- Castle of Saint-Fargeau
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Leaving Sancerre, you'll cycle along the Canal Lateral, passing through the towns of Belleville-sur Loire and Beaulieu-sur-Loire. Your destination for the day is the town of Briare, known for its magnificent canal bridge adorned with 72 lamp posts and pillars. Until 2003, it was the longest canal bridge in Europe, making it a must-see attraction.
Day 5 – Day 5: Briare to Sully-sur-Loire
- Sully-sur-Loire
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- Castle of Saint Brisson sur Loire
- Château de Sully-sur-Loire
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Day five takes you over the Loire on the 'canal bridge' to Saint Brisson-sur-Loire, home to a medieval chateau complete with catapults and cannons. Continue to the city of Gien, rebuilt after WWII, and enjoy its panoramic views. In the afternoon, you'll cycle to Sully-sur-Loire, where you'll stay overnight. The town's chateau, surrounded by moats and overlooking the river, is a sight to behold.
Day 6 – Day 6: Sully-sur-Loire to Orleans
- Orléans
- Sully-sur-Loire
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- Castle of Saint Brisson sur Loire
- Bords de Loire
- Château de Sully-sur-Loire
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Day six offers panoramic views as you cycle to Saint Benoit-sur-Loire, home to one of France's most renowned Romanesque churches. Continue to Chateauneuf-sur-Loire, a major port of the Loire in the 18th century. The day ends in Orleans, the 'City of Art and History', famously saved by Joan of Arc from the Plantagenets' siege during the Hundred Years' War.
Day 7 – Day 7: Orleans
- Orléans - Departure day
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Your seven-day journey concludes after breakfast in Orleans. You may choose to extend your adventure by continuing to cycle on the Loire towards the Atlantic Coast, or take the time to further explore the 'City of Art and History'.
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