Loire Valley Bike Cruise - Briare to Nevers by Bike and Boat
The Loire Valley, stretching from Briare to Nevers in central France, is perfect for a serene bike and barge vacation. As you follow the Loire River, you’ll leisurely ride through lush countryside dotted with quaint villages, historic castles, and grand palaces. The area is renowned for its fertile vineyards, particularly the famous Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé wines. Along the Canal latéral à la Loire, you’ll encounter remarkable examples of canal engineering.
Our journey begins in the picturesque town of Briare, known for its charming locks and aqueduct. Pedaling through a stunning region filled with lakes and châteaux, you’ll visit Châtillon-sur-Loire, famed for its impressive locks. The route also takes you through the St. Brisson Forest and seemingly endless vineyards. As you approach Nevers, you’ll explore the ancient Roman town of La Charité-sur-Loire, featuring a 16th-century stone bridge, and the 12th-century Château d'Apremont, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
The week culminates in the historic town of Nevers, a destination well worth several days of exploration on its own.
Highlights of the stay:
- Vineyards of Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé
- The charming residences of Sancerre and Nevers
- Walks along the Loire
Day 1: Briare, short bike ride, 15 km
The barge is docked in Briare on the Canal Latéral à la Loire, at Rue du Pont Canal. Please arrive at our barge between 1 PM and 2 PM. Upon boarding, you can settle into your cabin and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. This is a great time to meet the tour leader, skipper, crew, and your fellow travelers. During dinner on the barge, we will discuss the program for the next day and the week's overall itinerary. Safety instructions and cycling guidelines will also be provided. After dinner, the tour leader will guide you on a short bike ride around the village to kick off your adventure.
Day 2: Rogny-les-Sept-Écluses Loop, 50 km
Our first real bike ride of the week will take us to the Château de Pont Chevron, located on a picturesque little lake. Around noon, you'll arrive in the village of Rogny-les-Sept-Écluses, known for its seven historic locks. Passing by the 16th-century castle near Bléneau, you'll cycle through a region of lakes to Ouzouer-sur-Trézée, and finally return to Briare.
Day 3: From Briare to Belville-sur-Loire, 32/45 km
Today we'll begin with a visit to the magnificent Briare aqueduct, which spans the Loire River. With a little luck and good planning, you might see the Clair de Lune passing by. Later, you'll head to Saint-Brisson, where you'll discover the impressive medieval castle. You will then pass through the historic locks of Châtillon-sur-Loire. The bike ride to Belleville-sur-Loire will take you through the typical French countryside with its rolling hills, country estates, and small villages.
Day 4: From Belville-sur-Loire to Sancerre, 34 km
The wines of Sancerre, especially the white wines, are world-famous. The first recorded mention of viticulture in this region dates back to the 6th century. Until the 19th century, the region primarily cultivated Pinot grapes, but after a devastating disease, Sauvignon is now the predominantly cultivated grape variety, with great success! Today's ride takes you on a scenic route through the Sancerre vineyards and surrounding villages. In Ménétréol, located beneath the Sancerre vineyards, you will have the opportunity to taste some wine before returning to Clair de Lune.
Day 5: From Sancerre to Beffes, 38 km
Immediately after breakfast, you'll hop on your bike to begin the day with a tour of the Pouilly Fumé wine region, heading to La Charité-sur-Loire, an ancient Roman town. Crossing the 16th-century stone bridge into the center, you'll have a splendid view of the town and its Notre-Dame church. Continue to your destination for the day, Beffes.
Day 6: From Beffes to Cours-les-Barres, 43 km
From Beffes heading south, you'll pass through beautiful wooded areas with many charming villages and country estates. Later in the day, you'll arrive in the small town of Apremont, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the 12th-century château and its magnificent surrounding gardens. You'll then continue to the quiet village of Guétin, located on the Canal latéral à la Loire. Along the way, a visit to the aqueduct on the Allier, with its two impressive locks, each approximately 9 meters high, is a must!
Day 7: From Cours-les-Barres to Nevers, 43 km
We end this week in the heart of France with a short ride to the town of Nevers, where many sights await, including winding streets lined with houses dating from the 14th to 17th centuries. The origins of Nevers date back to Roman times. Since the 5th century, Nevers has been the seat of the bishopric and boasts, among other things, a castle and several interesting churches. To celebrate the end of your week of cycling, you can also take a well-deserved rest on the town's many terraces and taste the local wine.
Day 8: Nevers
End of the tour after breakfast before 10:00 a.m.
