A day in the area around Orléans

Cycle routes:

• Follow La Loire à Vélo from Orléans to Meung-sur-Loire: if you want to get away from the city for a while, there’s nothing better than getting on your bike and following the itinerary of La Loire à Vélo to Meung-sur-Loire, the “mini Venice” of the Loiret! Along this straightforward 20-km route, you will first be amazed by the sight of Courpain Point, just outside Orléans, where the Loiret flows into the Loire. After a few more pedal strokes, stop to visit the town of Cléry-Saint-André which is famous for its impressive 15th-century basilica, home to the tomb of King Louis XI. Next, end the trip by exploring Meung-sur-Loire with its many canals and rivers. The city also has a magnificent château that is a mixture of medieval and Renaissance architecture. You can also enjoy a break in the gardens of Roquelin, facing the Loire. To return to Orléans, you have several options: follow the same route in the opposite direction or go to the train station in Meung-sur-Loire, where you can catch a train or take line 9 of the Rémi network to Orléans, with bike storage available. For keener cyclists, you can extend the trip and travel to the medieval town of Beaugency where you will discover a wealth of architectural and historical heritage. An easy 8km route.

 

• Along the Loire à Vélo from Orléans to Jargeau: for a straightforward 20km route to discover the natural treasures of the Loire, hop on your bike and cycle to Jargeau! First stop: Charlemagne Island, a protected site offering many activities including swimming, play areas, bike circuits and more. After this relaxing break, cycle on and admire the winding river and local scenery. Can you hear the sound of birds getting louder? You’re nearing Bird Island! Look around and admire this protected site where large numbers of birds nest. Continue along the final kilometres to Jargeau, an old medieval fortress that Joan of Arc took back from the English in 1429.Information about the itinerary: most of the route follows dedicated paths. From Orléans to Charlemagne Island you will be on a cycle route with no traffic. Next there is a shared section with little traffic to Jargeau. A suitable route for families.Where to stop for a break: for picnics, a dedicated area awaits you opposite Bird Island, where you can take the time to admire this gem of biodiversity.Along the Loire à Vélo from Orléans to Bou: the journey starts peacefully along Quai du Roi in Orléans, on the north bank of the Loire. The pleasant first few kilometres will take you along the Loire and its lateral canal to Combleux, a charming town nestled between the Loire and the Orléans canal. Its low houses and old lock testify to its river trade past. Stop to eat in the charming restaurant La Marine and enjoy an unobstructed view of the lock! For a fun and unusual trip on the Loire, climb aboard with Escapades ligériennes. Continue your route and leave the Loire for a few kilometres as you follow the Orléans canal to Chécy. Then complete the last few kilometres to Bou.

What to visit:

• Parc Floral de La Source: this 35-hectare garden is listed as a Remarkable Garden, a sign of its unique character. It guarantees a wonderful afternoon discovering plants, works of art and animals. You could ask for nothing more!
• Jardin des Plantes: situated on the south side of Orléans, this botanical garden is ideal for a relaxing stroll. Wander through floral fragrances and the seven themed gardens such as the water garden, the garden of the curious and the exotic vegetable garden. Admission is free.
• The quay of the George V Bridge: an ideal place for strolling along the banks of the Loire in Orléans and watching traditional boats such as Gabares and Toues. This was once a major trading point in Orléans, when large numbers of boats sailed up and down the Loire, and certain traces of this opulent past remain. The many islands scattered along the Loire are home to numerous birds… a delight to watch and listen to!
• Courpain Point: Less than 10 km from Orléans along the Loire à Vélo, this natural site is an ideal place for walking. Situated at the confluence of the Loire and Loiret, this nature reserve is bursting with secret spots and plant and animal species to admire.