Accueil Discover By bike Travel by bike on the Scandibérique!
Even just the name of the Scandibérique sounds like an invitation on an adventure! This route is the French section of EuroVelo 3, connecting Trondheim in Norway to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Extending along more than 1,700 km, this route crosses through 20 different departments and four regions in France. In the Loire Valley, a breathtaking itinerary of 360 km awaits!
THE SCANDIBÉRIQUE AND ITS MUST-SEE SITES
With a total of 1,700 kilometres, the Scandibérique promises plenty of beautiful spots to discover! In the Loire Valley, the 360 km itinerary travels through three different departments (Loirey, Loir-et-Cher and Indre-et-Loire). The route begins above Montargis and extends along the Loire from Briare to south of Tours. On the programme, you’ll see incredible châteaux, greenways and charming places to stop in medieval cities and picturesque villages!
Choose between around ten different stages for a simple ride or travel from one to another if you are cycle touring. For example, the stage between Sully-sur-Loire and Orléans is worth a detour. It will take you to the magnificent Château of Sully-sur-Loire, followed by a series of other unmissable sites in the region, such as the Fleury Abbey and the Carolingan Oratory in Germigny-des-Près. Once you arrive in Orléans, you can enjoy a gourmet break and explore the city at your own pace, including the cathedral, Joan of Arc’s house and the banks of the Loire!
David Drrault
Un monde à vélo
Un monde à vélo
Another stage that shouldn’t be missed is the route (approximately 2.5 hrs) between Blois and Amboise, which connects the two iconic Loire châteaux of the same name. Just before, during the stage that connects Meung-sur-Loire and Blois, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the easy pace of life in the Loire region in Beaugency, where the riverside quays feel like the seaside in summer!
Un monde à vélo
Christophe Mouton
Clara Ferrand
David Darrault
PLAN YOUR BIKE TRIP ON THE SCANDIBÉRIQUE
All along the Scandibérique, you can access “Accueil Vélo” services: accommodation, restaurants, bike rental and repair services, tourist offices and tourist sites, located less than five kilometres from the route and particularly well adapted to your needs.
CRT CVDL
Lastly, here are a few tips for a successful cycle touring experience! Choose your bike well, one that’s suited to your body type and as lightweight as possible. Specialised bike rentals in the region will be able to advise you if you don’t have your own equipment with you. Bring clothing for all kinds of weather (best be prepared!) and ideally, opt for waterproof paniers. To be ready for any mishap, it’s a good idea to also bring a tool kit for minor repairs. Now you’re ready to hop in the saddle!
