A weekend in and around Saumur on an electric bike – 3 days

Departure/Arrival

Saumur
Distance

77 km
Duration

3 days / 2 nights

Along this itinerary in the heart of the Loire Valley, in an area listed as UNESCO world heritage, you will discover the Loire-Anjou-Touraine regional nature park, stunning panoramic views of unspoilt, protected wildlife, exceptional heritage and the winemaking activity this region is famous for.

Day 1 – Saumur

Saumur © S. Gaudard

Arrive in Saumur by train and explore the town centre. You will have no trouble finding places to eat.

Day 2 – Saumur / Fontevraud Abbey / Saumur (40 km)

After a good night’s sleep, pick up your electric bikes from the hire firm in Saumur.

Cycle in the direction of Turquant via the banks of the Loire, turn off at Souzay-Champigny and cross the underground section of this old troglodyte village. Excitement guaranteed!

Continue your journey in the direction of Parnay, a stunning village surrounded by winemaking châteaux that you will spot as you pass.

When you reach Turquant, it’s time for a break! Soak up the atmosphere in this charming village that has grown around a troglodyte site and is now home to craft professions. Young and old can discover jewellery, pottery, soap making, etc.

Turquant © D. Drouet

Abbaye de Fontevraud © H. Thaï Thuc

Return to your bikes and carry on in the direction of Fontevraud Abbey, one of the largest monastic sites dating from the Middle Ages and a key history and heritage destination!

While you’re there, take the opportunity to break for lunch in the Abbey restaurant or on the village square.

Next, cycle to Montsoreau, named one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France for its prestigious setting. Wander round its little streets, discover the flower-covered houses built of tuffeau stone, walk through the vineyards and see its château, Museum of Modern Art, built in 1450… You won’t want to miss a thing!

Go to the port and board the Saumur Loire with your bikes, and enjoy a unique moment drifting along the river for an hour to Saumur.

In the evening, visit the town by night. The atmosphere is different and the colours over the Loire are spellbinding.

La Loire à Vélo - bords de Loire © J. Damase

Information on the stage:

Saumur and Montsoreau by bike, follow the path along the banks of the Loire
Montsoreau / Saumur or Saumur / Montsoreau by boat: shuttle booking and times with Croisières Saumur Loire (only on Saturdays in season).

Day 3 – Saumur / Gennes / Les Rosiers / Saumur (37 km)

Petit village troglodyte de Souzay-Champigny © D. Drouet

Set off for Chênehutte-Trèves-Cunault along the banks of the Loire.

You won’t be able to resist stopping off at one of the wine cellars around Saumur to discover and taste the famous sparkling wines by Bouvet Ladubay! Why not try a wine cellar visit by bike?

Continue your trip along the Loire à Vélo itinerary. Cross the charming village of Chênehutte-Trèves-Cunault with your eyes peeled to admire the tuffeau stone houses!

A few pedal strokes further on, you will arrive in Gennes with its megaliths and Gallo-Roman amphitheatre. Take a break, have lunch of course, and explore the area.

Go along the north bank to return to Saumur on a green lane alongside the Loire (not recommended for trailers).

When you arrive in Saumur, return your hire bikes and catch the train home.