The best cycling routes in Loire
4.4
(2168)
22,640
riders
2,508
rides
Touring cycling in Loire is characterized by its diverse landscapes, shaped by the Loire River and its tributaries. The region features gentle terrain, extensive vineyards, and significant forest areas like the national forest of Amboise. Cyclists can explore varied natural features, including river banks, ponds, and areas within the Pilat Regional Natural Park. This blend of natural beauty and historical sites provides a rich environment for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes in Loire
- The most popular touring cycling route is Gorges de la Loire: Saint-Victor and Chambles Loop, a 25.3 miles (40.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 48 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the Loire Gorges.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Castles of la Roche and Saint Maurice - Loop in the Loire Gorges, a difficult 31.3 miles (50.5 km) path. This route combines historical castles with scenic river gorge landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Saint-Laurent-La-Conche and the Ponds of Feurs - Loop along the water, a 19.0 miles (30.6 km) trail leading through areas with ponds and waterways, often completed in about 1 hour 48 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Loire is defined by the Loire River, its surrounding vineyards, and historical châteaux. The network offers options for easy rides along the water as well as more challenging routes through varied terrain.
- The routes in Loire are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 2000 reviews. More than 22000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Loire's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.8
(19)
216
riders
40.8km
02:48
760m
760m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(33)
193
riders
29.6km
01:45
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(13)
32
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(11)
38
riders
50.5km
03:25
800m
800m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(9)
23
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
riders
42.3km
03:29
1,190m
1,190m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
16
riders
24.8km
01:29
180m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
16
riders
24.8km
01:29
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
8
riders
43.8km
02:41
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
8
riders
43.3km
02:39
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Loire
The trails of Ardèche — on the train tracks by bike
Via Fluvia – Cycle Route between Loire and Rhône
A green escape along the Loire river – La Véloire
Beyond the mountains – the Rhône to the Ardèche
From castle to castle along the Loire - Long-distance cycle route Véloire
‘La Joyeuse Vadrouille’ – two months cycling with the family
Nature, rivers and chateau – explore the Loire region of France
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Other adventures in Loire
Tips from the Community
Great view from Essalois castle.
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The 17th-century Château de la Roche, with its tower and keep, is the landmark of the Loire Gorge. Its atypical location in the heart of the Loire River makes it an exceptional sight.
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A wonderful place for a walk. You can have a drink at La Chaumière.
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In this abbey, the eco-hamlet of Bénisson-Dieu meets to sing vespers at least once a week. A little extra: they sing in a unique medieval Gregorian chant! Not to be missed!
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The church of Saint-Maurice, whose origins date back to the 18th century, was the chapel of the castle, hence the name of the castle chapel. Inside the church, on the right-hand side, in a bay window, there is a wall fresco of Saint James with pilgrim's cloak and staff, which was discovered during restoration work in 1999.
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Beautiful Abbey and lovely grounds to stroll around while your legs recover from you strenuous ride 🤓
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Great canal, we walked along its entire length during a Paris Lyon and it's great! For more advice, don’t hesitate to follow us on all networks @chouchou_team
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Loire?
The Loire Valley is ideal for touring cycling during spring and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, beautiful landscapes with blooming flowers or vibrant fall colors, and generally less crowded paths. The region's largely flat terrain makes it enjoyable for cyclists of all levels.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Loire?
There are over 2,500 touring cycling routes available in Loire, catering to various skill levels and preferences. You'll find a wide selection, from easy rides along the water to more challenging routes through varied terrain.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Loire?
Yes, Loire offers numerous easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, R5 – one port to the next is an easy 18.4-mile (29.6 km) trail. Another great option is Saint-Laurent-La-Conche and the Ponds of Feurs - Loop along the water, which is 19.0 miles (30.6 km) and takes about 1 hour 48 minutes to complete.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in Loire?
The Loire Valley offers diverse landscapes, shaped by the Loire River and its tributaries. You'll cycle through gentle terrain, extensive vineyards, and significant forest areas like the national forest of Amboise. Expect picturesque river banks, serene ponds, and areas within the Pilat Regional Natural Park, all contributing to the region's UNESCO World Heritage status.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Loire?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Loire are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include Gorges de la Loire: Saint-Victor and Chambles Loop, a 25.3-mile (40.8 km) trail, and Castles of la Roche and Saint Maurice - Loop in the Loire Gorges, a more challenging 31.3-mile (50.5 km) path.
What historical attractions can I explore along the cycling routes?
The Loire Valley is renowned for its architectural treasures. While cycling, you can discover magnificent châteaux, historic towns, and unique troglodyte villages. Many routes pass by or near these sites, offering a rich cultural experience alongside the natural beauty. For instance, the Castles of la Roche and Saint Maurice - Loop in the Loire Gorges combines historical castles with scenic river gorge landscapes.
What are some notable natural landmarks or viewpoints in Loire?
The region offers several natural landmarks and viewpoints. You can visit the Gouffre d'Enfer Dam, explore the Crêt de l'Œillon, or traverse the Béal Pass. Other significant natural features include the meeting point of the Allier and Loire rivers at the Bec d'Allier and the preserved environments of the Val de Loire National Nature Reserve.
Can I find multi-day touring cycling options in Loire?
Yes, the Loire Valley is famous for multi-day touring cycling, notably as home to "La Loire à Vélo," a renowned route that forms part of the larger EuroVelo 6. This extensive network allows for multi-day journeys, with many towns and villages offering accommodations and services catering to cyclists.
What is the komoot community's general impression of touring cycling in Loire?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Loire, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 2,000 reviews. More than 22,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region, often praising the diverse terrain, well-maintained paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical sites.
Are there any routes that pass through the Pilat Regional Natural Park?
Yes, some routes venture into the Pilat Regional Natural Park, offering a different kind of natural experience. An example is Les Crêts et le Pays du Gier - Loop in the Pilat Regional Natural Park, a difficult 26.3-mile (42.3 km) route with significant elevation changes, providing stunning views and a challenging ride.
Are there specific routes that highlight the Loire Gorges?
Absolutely. The Loire Gorges are a prominent feature of the region and are highlighted in several routes. For instance, the Gorges de la Loire: Saint-Victor and Chambles Loop offers direct views of this impressive natural landscape. Another option is The Viaduc de Chessieux and the Digue de Pinay - Loop at the gates of the Gorges de la Loire, an easy 11.5-mile (18.5 km) ride.
What are the options for bike rental and services in the Loire Valley?
The Loire Valley is very cyclist-friendly, with a well-developed infrastructure that includes "Accueil Vélo" accommodations and services. These certified establishments often provide bike rentals, repair facilities, and other services tailored to touring cyclists, making it easy to find what you need along your journey.
Are there any specific routes that follow rivers or waterways?
Many routes in Loire follow rivers and waterways, offering scenic and often flat paths. The Saint-Laurent-La-Conche and the Ponds of Feurs - Loop along the water is a great example, leading through areas with ponds and waterways. The region's identity is deeply tied to the Loire River and its tributaries like the Cher, Indre, and Vienne, providing numerous opportunities for waterside cycling.
Most popular routes in Loire
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