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Starting in Nantes, you’ll travel along the stunning estuary of the Loire, leading you to the peaceful Pays de Retz peninsula. The southern Brittany coastline, known as the Côte de Jade, features sandy coves, rugged cliffs, and charming villages, all enhanced by the fresh sea air. You’ll visit lovely seaside towns like Pornic, a highlight of the coast before continuing through the salt marshes of Vendée, to the beautiful island of Noirmoutier. Your journey along the Côte de Lumière will take you past beaches, forests, sandy dunes then arriving at Les Sables d’Olonne which is famous for its fine sandy beach and lovely scenery and then to La Tranche-sur-Mer. Finally, you’ll reach La Rochelle, passing through the historic Marais Poitevin which is now a protected area and is also one of the most beautiful man-made landscapes.
Nantes
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Hooked on Cycling that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the chosen activity and for emergency evacuation and hospital care.
Arrive at your accommodation in Nantes, where you will find your bikes waiting for you (if you rented them). As the western capital and a certified City of Art and History, Nantes is rich in historical and cultural heritage. You can explore sites like the 13th century, Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Machines of the Isle where you can ride on a Mechanical Elephant. Don’t forget to take a walk down to Jardin des Plantes, one of the largest botanical gardens in France.
The cycle paths of La Vélodyssée and La Loire à Vélo create a brilliant route from Nantes to the ocean. As you ride along the Loire estuary, you’ll encounter canals, ports, and an outdoor art gallery featuring the exhibition “Estuaire” – an open-air museum. In Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, enjoy the fresh ocean breeze as you take in the sand dunes and beautiful sandy beaches.
On this part of your journey, you’ll travel around a mile from the wide beaches of Saint-Brevin, with pine trees, to the beautiful sandy coves and rugged coastlines of the Baie de Bourgneuf. This peaceful area is dotted with fishing spots and small seaside towns. You’ll be on the Vendee Atlantique Oyster Route, why not take the opportunity to taste some Oysters. Plan to spend some time in Pornic before heading to the Vendee and the old-fashioned village of Bouin, passing through the Marais Breton Vendéen, where Brittany and Poitou meet.
On this day, you’ll cycle to the famous “Passage du Gois,” a unique spot in Europe. Be sure to check the tide times the day before, as it’s only accessible for three hours each day, sometimes very early or late. This 4.2 km road is under the ocean and can only be used at low tide, so watch out for slippery cobblestones! You’ll discover Noirmoutier Island, a small, well-preserved Vendéen island known for its very different landscapes and authentic aura.
If the tides don’t allow you to take the Passage du Gois, you can approach this new stage through the peaceful Marais Vendéen, passing by Beauvoir with its 17th-century market town and Saint-Jean de Monts. Then, you’ll follow the Vendéen corniche, featuring gorgeous cliffs and the famous rocks known as “The Five Pineaux” leading you to the beautiful city of Saint Gilles-Croix-de-Vie.
You’ll continue your journey by cycling along an easy path that connects Brétignolles and Brem. Leaving the coastline behind, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the ancient salt marshes and the Olonne Forrest as you make your way to Les Sables d’Olonne. Here, you can relax on the wide sandy beach or stroll through the charming streets of the town.
Today starts closer to the sea as the Vélodyssée trail goes through forests and coastlines which then reveals the beautiful natural sites. You’ll enjoy stunning views at Cayola Bay, explore the Point of Payré, and visit charming ports like Port de la Guittière, known for its oyster farming and recognized as a notable site in Vendée. The forest paths offer a refreshing escape under the pines and holm oaks before you arrive at La Tranche-sur-Mer, famous for its 13 km stretch of sandy beach.
Onto the final day, the Vélodyssée takes you through one of the last natural lagoons on the Atlantic coast, the Belle Henriette lagoon. This wild area is home to many protected birds, making it a delight for nature lovers. The route continues through the Marais Poitevin along country lanes and quiet roads, showcasing a patchwork of straight canals. You’ll cross the Sèvre Niortaise and follow the canal, enjoying an easy and peaceful path that leads you to the Ecstatic city of La Rochelle.
La Rochelle is a beautiful tourist city known for its rich history. You can explore the old harbour and its towers, which have protected the entrance since the 13th century. Be sure to visit the city centre with its charming arches and the town hall, which also dates to the 15th century.
Depart after breakfast.
2025 Prices – For complete tour price breakdown please click the book now button and select your holiday tour date. Prices will then be listed.
Tour Code | Prices From (per person) | Book Now |
CYCLO05 (7 Nights) | from £1080 | Book Now |