The best road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars
4.6
(12)
1,138
riders
316
rides
Road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars traverse a landscape characterized by the Thouet River Valley and its surrounding varied terrain. The region offers a mix of paved surfaces, with some routes featuring moderate climbs and descents. Cyclists can expect quiet roads that lead through natural surroundings and past historical sites.
Best road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars
- The most popular road cycling route is Troglodytes – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars, a 57.8 miles (93.0 km) trail that takes 3…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
16
riders
93.0km
03:46
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
5
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The contemporary art center of national interest, La Chapelle Jeanne d’Arc de Thouars, is today a leading venue for contemporary art in the western region. Along with the Château d’Oiron and the Syndicat Mixte de la Vallée du Thouet, which runs a program of public commissions for contemporary works, the art center's work is carried out in partnership across the entire territory of the Pays Thouarsais community of communes and, more broadly, in the northern part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Within the region, the art center is a recognized player in the Astre plastic and visual arts network. Developing an artistic project that takes into account its geographical location and its architectural envelope, a neo-Gothic chapel, the art center maintains a privileged relationship with the heritage of Thouars. Guest artists, hosted for residencies or exhibitions, appropriate the chapel space by creating an original work designed for the venue. They also bring their perspective to the city, urban planning, landscape, and rural areas of the Thouars region and the Thouet Valley. Since 1993, nearly a hundred artists have been invited for residencies or exhibition projects. In recent years, the art center has paid particular attention to emerging artists from art schools, particularly those from the regional Le Grand Huit network. In addition to its programming, the art center also engages in outreach activities in the form of off-site exhibitions, workshops, and events (meetings, lectures, and workshops). A mobile device, La Mar(g)elle, was created in 2015 by the artist Marie-Ange Guilleminot to offer interventions in partner locations, particularly within schools and structures in the social and medical sectors. For its educational action, the art center benefits from the action of the municipal art school of Thouars, to which it is connected within the visual arts department of the City of Thouars.
0
0
The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
3
0
The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place steeped in history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of this ancient site and discover the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, an architectural and historical jewel that will fascinate young and old alike. Thanks to captivating exhibitions, fascinating guided tours and a rich cultural programme, you will immerse yourself in the unique world of this abbey, founded in the 11th century and once a necropolis of the Plantagenets. Every stone, every vault, every corner tells a story... But Fontevraud is much more than a historical site... Broaden your discovery with a visit to the Fontevraud Museum of Modern Art, which houses more than 800 works donated by Martine and Léon Cligman. A prestigious collection that combines ancient and modern art, for an artistic immersion through the ages. Triggered? Find out more at https://www.ot-saumur.fr/en/abbeys-and-religious-heritage/royal-abbey-of-fontevraud-5344942/
4
0
The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5
0
Dating from the 13th century, at the foot of the city ramparts, this bridge ultimately offers the best view of the Château de Thouars.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars?
There are over 320 road cycling routes in the Saint-Jean-De-Thouars area, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These include 67 easy routes, 248 moderate routes, and 6 challenging routes.
What kind of terrain and elevation can I expect on road cycling routes in Saint-Jean-De-Thouars?
The region features a varied landscape, primarily defined by the Thouet River Valley. You can expect a mix of paved surfaces with moderate climbs and descents. For example, the Troglodytes – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop includes over 500 meters of elevation gain, while easier routes like the Thouars – Pont des Chouans on the Thouet loop have around 210 meters.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, the region offers several routes suitable for families. The 'Thouars and the banks of the Thouet' loop, mentioned in regional research, is mostly paved and suitable for all skill levels. You can find 67 easy routes in total, which are generally well-suited for a more relaxed family ride. An example of an easy route is the Thouars – Pont des Chouans on the Thouet loop from Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes pass by significant historical and cultural sites. You can discover attractions such as the Small Church of Saint-Généroux (10th century), the Pont des Chouans on the Thouet, and the Saint-Médard Church of Thouars. Longer routes might even take you near the Fontevraud Royal Abbey, as seen on the Troglodytes – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop.
Are there any scenic viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
Absolutely. The Thouet River Valley provides numerous picturesque views. Routes like the Breathtaking view – Pont des Chouans on the Thouet loop are specifically highlighted for their scenic beauty along the river. You can also find viewpoints like the Prtty view on the Thouars's castle.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Saint-Jean-De-Thouars?
The region is generally pleasant for cycling across multiple seasons. The quiet roads and natural surroundings are enjoyable from spring through autumn. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. The area is known for its tranquil cycling experience.
Are there circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Troglodytes – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop and the Pont des Chouans on the Thouet – Saint-Médard Church of Thouars loop.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Saint-Jean-De-Thouars?
The road cycling routes in Saint-Jean-De-Thouars are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the quiet roads, and the opportunities to explore historical sites and natural beauty along the Thouet River Valley.
Is there a local cycling community or club in the area?
Yes, the Thouars Cyclotourisme club is active in the area. They organize rides and promote cycling, indicating a supportive community for the sport. You can find more information about their activities on their website: thouars-cyclotourisme.fr.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
While the majority of routes are moderate, there are 6 routes classified as difficult for those seeking a greater challenge. These routes typically feature more significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing an engaging experience for well-trained road cyclists.
Can I find routes that are part of larger cycling networks?
Yes, the region is connected to broader cycling networks. A section of La Vélo Francette, a major national cycling route, runs along the banks of the Thouet river. This route is approximately 80% on shared paths, making it a well-integrated part of the larger network.
Most popular routes around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars
Most popular attractions around Saint-Jean-De-Thouars
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
