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: from Briare to Rogny-les-Sept-Écluses, 50 km
Our first full day of cycling takes us to the Pont Chevron castle, set by a charming lake. Around lunchtime, we’ll reach the village of Rogny-les-Sept-Écluses, famous for its historic seven locks. Continuing, we’ll cycle past the 16th-century castle near Bléneau and through a region of lakes, eventually making our way back to Briare.
Day 3: from Briare to Sury-Près-Léré, 38/51 km
Today begins with a visit to the stunning aqueduct over the Loire River in Briare. If timed right, you might witness the Clair de Lune barge passing high above the river. The ride continues to St. Brisson, home to an impressive medieval castle, and through the historic locks of Châtillon-sur-Loire. We’ll then cycle through the scenic French countryside, dotted with rolling hills, estates, and quaint villages, on our way to Sury-Près-Léré.
Day 4: from Sury-Près-Léré to Sancerre, 34 km
Sancerre is renowned worldwide for its wines, especially its whites. The history of viticulture here dates back to the 6th century. After a grape blight in the 19th century, Sauvignon grapes became the dominant variety. Today’s route takes us through the picturesque Sancerre vineyards and nearby villages. In Ménétréol, located below the vineyards, you’ll have the chance to sample some wine before returning to the Clair de Lune.
Day 5: from Sancerre to Beffes, 38 km
After breakfast, we embark on a bike tour through the Pouilly Fumé wine region, heading towards La Charité-sur-Loire, an ancient Roman town. Crossing the 16th-century stone bridge, you'll get a splendid view of the town and its Notre Dame church. The day ends in Beffes.
Day 6: from Beffes to Guétin, 37 km
Cycling south from Beffes, you’ll pass through wooded areas and charming villages. Later, you’ll arrive in Apremont, where you can visit the 12th-century castle and its beautiful gardens. The journey continues to the quiet village of Guétin on the Canal Latéral à la Loire. Don’t miss the impressive aqueduct over the Allier River with its two 9-meter-high locks.
Day 7: from Guétin to Nevers, 23 km
We conclude our week with a short ride to Nevers, a town rich in history with winding streets and houses dating from the 14th to 17th centuries. Nevers, with origins in Roman times, has been the seat of a bishop since the 5th century and boasts a castle and several notable churches. To celebrate the end of your cycling week, relax on the town’s terraces and enjoy the local wine.
Day 8: Nevers
End of the tour after breakfast before 10 AM
