With its bucolic landscapes, its 300 km-long route through the Loire Valley and its ideal stops close to some amazing castles, l’Indre à Vélo is the perfect way to discover Touraine by bike! Ideal for exploring Touraine from the inside, the route (V49) also joins other major cycle routes such as La Loire à Vélo and Saint-Jacques à Vélo. A journey in its own right!
L’Indre à Vélo, de la Touraine au Berry
L’Indre à Vélo may be a lesser-known bike path, but it also features stages in incredible locations. There are many must-sees along the route, starting with multiple Loire Châteaux, including Azay-le-Rideau, Chenonceau and the Royal City of Loches. Along the Indre, the Fortress of Montbazon is also a highlight – this site has a rich history, home to the oldest keep in France. It’s an excellent place to visit with family, for a true journey back in time.
The full route (300 km in total) connects Bréhémont (Indre-et-Loire) with Chambon-sur-Voueize (Creuse). Take the opportunity to make a well-deserved stop in Châteauroux, a veritable garden city in the heart of Berry, or in the old medieval city of Châtillon-sur-Indre, a fascinating site with cobblestone streets and a keep overlooking the valley. Nearby, don’t miss the chance to take a nature-filled break around the lakes of Brenne, thanks to the charming bike paths connected to L’Indre à Vélo.
This cycle route is delightful and accessible, a little less well-known than the major cycle routes to which it is connected (La Loire à Vélo, the Scandibérique, Cœur de France à Vélo, etc.). Enjoy the peaceful countryside during a bike outing of half a day, a full day or even a multi-day bike tour!
ORGANISE YOUR JOURNEY ALONG L’INDRE À VÉLO
L’Indre à Vélo features eight different stages, from 25 km to over 45 km. In terms of difficulty level, they range between easy to medium, which opens up a host of possibilities for those who wish to enjoy a ride through a magical setting in total freedom. Find the itinerary that suits you, depending on your desires and the time you have available!
You can do it at your own pace, and it’s also suitable for families, as long as you respect a few simple rules. Take regular breaks to enjoy the stages, and make sure you rest and stay well hydrated. Your children will love the chance to interact more with the surrounding environment, and it will help you set off fresh! Take supplies with you for the journey, including water, food, and a small repair kit to avoid any complications. Make sure you have suitable clothing (sun, rain, wind, etc.) and don’t forget your helmet (mandatory for under-12s).
In terms of logistics, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation and identify places to eat before you leave, especially if you are travelling with young children.
