Atlantic Coast Cycle - Nantes to La Rochelle

Atlantic Coast Cycle - Nantes to La Rochelle

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8 Days From

$1790

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure along France's stunning Atlantic Coast from Nantes to La Rochelle. This self-guided tour invites you to explore the vibrant city of Nantes and the charming seaside town of La Rochelle, while cycling through diverse landscapes and picturesque villages. Follow the renowned La Vélodyssée route, experiencing the maritime allure of sandy coves, jagged coastlines, and lush forests. Enjoy the freedom of cycling at your own pace, with opportunities to swim and explore historic sites along the way. Accommodation includes cozy B&Bs and hotels, with luggage transfers and a digital information pack to guide your journey. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or seeking a leisurely ride, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation on France's beautiful Atlantic shores. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Exploring the city of Nantes and seaside La Rochelle on the Bay of Biscay

  • Cycling through stunning and diverse landscapes

  • Visiting walled towns and pretty villages en route

  • Cycling along the Atlantic route of La Vélodyssée

  • Discovering the seaside resort of Saint-Brévin-les-Pins

  • Crossing the famous Gois causeway to the island of Noirmoutier

  • Exploring the old towers and ruins of La Rochelle

  • Opportunity to extend your stay and cycle on the beautiful Île de Ré

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive Nantes

Location: Nantes, Saint Pierre et Saint Pauls Cathedral, Nantes, Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, Nantes, Passage Pommeraye, Nantes

Accommodation Name: hotel

Arrive in Nantes and make your way to the hotel. Nantes is the largest, and one of the most beautiful, towns on the Loire. If you have time, take a walk through the charming town centre to view Saint Pierre et Saint Pauls Cathedral, the castle of the dukes of Brittany and Passage Pommeraye, a famous shopping centre built in the 1840s and recognized as a historic monument thanks to its impressive architecture. Follow its Voyage green line, stretching over 20km and connecting must-see sights and artworks. ...more ...less

Day 2 : Follow the Loire to Paimboeuf, continue south to the seaside resort of Saint-Brévin-les-Pins (58km/36mi)

Location: Loire River, Paimboeuf, Saint-Brévin-les-Pins

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

As you commence your cycle this morning along the mouth of the Loire you will encounter surprising works of art at unusual places. Passing Le Pellerin you will follow the Martinière canal along small, quiet roads on the cycling route of La Loire à Vélo. From Paimboeuf, your itinerary on the coastal route “Velodysée” starts and you will notice the strong influence of tides and currents on the Loire. The end of the day is in St-Brevin, a lively seaside resort on the Atlantic.
Ascent 1m, descent 18m

Day 3 : Discover Atlantic coast scenery en route to Bouin (57km/35.6mi)

Location: Pornic, Bouin

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

As you continue south of the Loire, La Vélodyssée has a maritime feel with sandy coves, jagged coastlines and small seaside resorts. Pass by Pornic, the gem of La Côte de Jade nestling in an inlet. The Marais Breton Marshlands form the border between the departments of Loire-Atlantique and Vendée. Overnight in Bouin.
Ascent 110m, descent 106m

Day 4 : Cycle past dunes and through the Pays de Monts to Saint Jean de Monts (42km/26.2mi)

Location: National forest of Pays de Monts, Saint Jean de Monts, Gois causeway, Island of Noirmoutier

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, your ride will focus entirely on the sea, the beach, the forest and the dunes. You will cycle 18km along winding paths through the National forest of Pays de Monts, after which you will reach the seaside resort of St Jean de Monts. The highlight of today will be crossing the famous Gois causeway to the island of Noirmoutier, if the tides permit.
Ascent 35m, descent 34m

Day 5 : Pass the famous boulders at Sion-sur-l'Océan en route to Les Sables d'Olonne (55km/34mi)

Location: Sion-sur-l'Océan, St-Hilaire-de-Riez, St-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, Brétignolles-sur-Mer, Brem-sur-Mer, Les Sables-d'Olonne

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Before reaching the Vendéenne Cove and its famous boulders at Sion-sur-l’Océan, 'La Vélodyssée' heads towards an old fishing village in the commune of St-Hilaire-de-Riez. St-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, a working port and seaside resort is located on a river in an unforgettable location! Take some time to stroll around before continuing the route which heads towards Brétignolles-sur-Mer, Brem-sur-Mer and finally Les Sables-d’Olonne via the Port de Plaisance. A superb cycling day, this is an idyllic location for family seaside holidays.
Ascent 112m, descent 113m

Day 6 : Follow the coast to La Tranche sur Mer with swimming opportunities (46km/28.7mi)

Location: La Tranche-sur-Mer, St-Vincent-sur-Jard, National Park of Longeville

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

A dream ride for this part of 'La Vélodyssée' you will cycle close to the sea, beaches and rocky coves. A beautiful trail and a real pleasure to ride along whilst breathing in the fresh sea air before turning back inland. After passing St-Vincent you will wind your way into the National Park of Longeville, meandering back towards the ocean on two occasions where the beach can be accessed easily. This are opportunities to swim today.
Ascent 102m, descent 115m

Day 7 : Cycle to La Rochelle (73km/45mi)

Location: La Belle-Henriette Lagoon, St-Michel-en-l'Herm, Marais Poitevin, Pont du Brault, Marans, La Rochelle

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cycle along the La Belle-Henriette Lagoon, which is separated from the ocean by a small stretch of sand, continuing to St-Michel-en-l’Herm through the marshes of Marais Poitevin. This landscape is dotted with farms, after which you will cross the Pont du Brault to reach the department of Charente-Maritime. Continue through the town of Marans to reach La Rochelle with its old towers and ruins from its past as a maritime harbour famous for trading with wine, salt and cheese.Ascent 30m, descent 30mNOTE: It's possible to split this day and stay overnight in Marans, in which case the cycling is La Tranche-sur-Mer to Marans (47km/29mi) and Marans to La Rochelle (26km/16mi) - a supplement applies and must be requested at time of booking.

Day 8 : Trip concludes (or extend your stay cycle on the beautiful Île de Ré)

Location: Île de Ré

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your trip concludes this morning after breakfast. At the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and facing the islands of Ré, Aix and Oléron, we recommend extending your stay to take time to explore the area - please ask for our rates.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    hotels

  • Hybrid rental bike

    Hybrid rental bike including helmet, pannier, lock, repair kit and handlebar bag is included.

  • Luggage Transfer

    Luggage transfer for 1 piece with a maximum of 20kg is included, with a supplement for excess.

  • Digital information pack

    A digital information pack including a smartphone app with maps, roadbook, and GPS tracks is included.

  • Visitor tax

    Visitor tax is included.

  • Emergency hotline

    An emergency hotline is available during the tour.

What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from Destination

    Travel to Nantes and from La Rochelle is not included.

  • Meals and Drinks

    Meals not listed as included and all drinks are excluded.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is mandatory and not included.

  • E-bike Rental

    E-bike rental is available with a supplement.

  • Tour Guide

    This is a self-guided cycling holiday; no tour guide is included.

  • Single Room Supplement

    A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.

  • Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees not listed as included are excluded.

  • Transfers

    Transfers not listed as included are excluded.

  • Taxi or Public Transport

    Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage are not included.

  • Optional Day Split

    Option to split day 7 into two days with a supplement.

  • Phone Holder

    We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder to follow the route more easily using the app.

  • Personal Items

    Items of a personal nature are not included.

  • Lunches and Dinners

    Lunches and dinners daily and all beverages are excluded.

  • Museum and Site Entrance Fees

    Entrance fees to museums, chateaux, parks, archaeological sites, and wine tastings are not included.

  • Hotel Taxes

    Hotel taxes, if applicable, are payable directly to the hotel.

What You Carry

During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.

Grading

GRADE 3 - Follow the 'La Vélodyssée cycle route along dedicated cycleways and quiet roads that give easy access to historic towns and cities along the way. Overall, the cycling is moderate grade with daily cycling distances from 42 to 73km/26.2 to 45mi (with the option to split the 73km day - must be requested at time of booking). The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos and perhaps a swim. It is considered suitable for cyclists with a good level of fitness. ...more ...less

Mode of Transport

Travel to Nantes and from La Rochelle is not included, but the tour provides a hybrid rental bike with helmet, pannier, lock, repair kit, and handlebar bag for your cycling journey.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights in a mix of charming B&Bs and 2-3 star hotels, all offering twin share rooms with ensuite facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout your cycling adventure.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights in a combination of B&Bs and 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.

  • Is there an option to rent an electric bike for the tour?

    Yes, an electric bike is available for rent upon request, but a supplement applies.

  • What should I carry during the cycling days?

    During the cycling days, you should carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water. A small daypack that can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package, but it is mandatory for participants.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    The tour includes 7 continental breakfasts. Other meals and drinks are not included.

  • Is there a guide provided during the cycling tour?

    No, this is a self-guided cycling holiday, so no tour guide is included.

  • Can the cycling distance on the last day be split into two days?

    Yes, it is possible to split the cycling distance on the last day into two days with an overnight stay in Marans. A supplement applies and must be requested at the time of booking.

  • What is the difficulty level of the cycling tour?

    The tour is graded as moderate, suitable for cyclists with a good level of fitness. Daily cycling distances range from 42 to 73 km, with an option to split the longest day.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews of this operator

Katharine McLennan (Google Reviewer)  

UTracks is awesome. My...

13-Jun-2024

UTracks is awesome. My Assisi trip was one of the most beautiful trips I have taken in my 56 years. I wanted to walk by myself, and Utracks teamed up with a local Italian travel company to do everything for me—book the hotels and move my bags from hotel to hotel as I walked the track. The app was AMAZING. It showed the daily itinerary, and the interactive map told me metre by metre where I needed to go and whether I was on track or not. It was far more accurate than Google Maps, and I loved all the commentary on what to look for and what not to. The places I stayed were known as "agriturismo places." They are hosted by families on working farms. Those gorgeous families had farms and accommodations that sometimes dated back to 800!!! But all of them had done a fantastic job updating them to be modern, beautiful rooms. I loved how warm the hosts were and how much they appreciated my stay. There were seldom more than 5 people staying each night. The walk was fabulous -- and incredibly well-researched and noted. I was often the only one on the trails, but I always felt safe and looked after by UTracks in their 24-hour cover. I never had to use it - but as a single woman walking on her own through the Italian hills -- it is great to know that people know where I am. The preparation pack sent to me was also incredibly organised with equipment lists, hotel directions-- with all the contacts, and the contacts of the lovely fellow who would be taking my bag from place to place. He was fantastic -- and I also felt supported by him if things were to go wrong. I will definitely be working with Utracks again and can't wait to plan my next adventure. ...more ...less

Kate (Google Reviewer)  

Wonderful experience in Turkey hiking...

31-Oct-2024

Wonderful experience in Turkey hiking the Lycian way. It was unhurried, with beautiful scenes and access to nature. The accommodation was excellent with (truly) amazing home cooked Turkish food throughout. We felt a lot calmer, fitter and healthier afterwards. ...more ...less

Addy K (Google Reviewer)  

Great hike to sample some...

04-Oct-2023

Great hike to sample some of the best locations along the Tour Du Mont Blanc. Our guide Sara was great at maintaining pace and knew the route very well. The scenery was amazing especially the tall mountains close to our accomodation. The accomodation provided great 3 course dinners, and we got to sample French, Swiss and Italian food. This is not an easy hike, but as long as you are able to do 1000 mtr elevation gain hikes, this is thoroughly enjoyable. ...more ...less

Mike Burke (Google Reviewer)  

UTracks did everything they promised,...

23-Oct-2024

UTracks did everything they promised, but it is what they did above & beyond that stands them apart. We were caught in the fires in Portugal & they arranged transport to get us out of danger, changed hotel bookings to accommodate the new circumstances & made us feel very safe. We were more than impressed with the level of communication & service. I won't be looking anywhere else when I book my next trip. ...more ...less

Lisa Kibeiks (Google Reviewer)  

Fantastic trip! Well organised and...

18-Oct-2024

Fantastic trip! Well organised and everything went smoothly. Would probably split the two big 30+ days if I were to have my time again. The heat adds another level of difficulty. Accommodations were all different but all clean and welcoming. Meals were varied as we walked into different regions the food changed to what was local. We never had a bad meal or a bad stay anywhere. Highly recommend this trip through France. A nice quiet Camino compared to the Frances but far more challenging. Very enjoyable. ...more ...less

Patrick Shum (Google Reviewer)  

Hassle free self guided tour...

26-Jul-2023

Hassle free self guided tour around the most scenic Austrian hills and lakes. All our heavy baggage taken care of from hotel to hotel. Hiking not difficult at all, instructions are v clear. I recommend use online GPS map. In case someone want to shorten the walking, various options (bus / boat) provided. ...more ...less

Amanda Liddell (Google Reviewer)  

300km in 12 days from...

15-Jun-2023

300km in 12 days from Porto to Santiago de Compostela where a Cathedral stands as the most beautiful ‘Welcome’ imaginable. The accomodation arranged by UTRACKS was consistently excellent & the ease of only having to worry about carrying your backpack and what you’ll have for lunch is perfect. Yes, most days at breakfast you can make up your own bread roll and filling. Notes and directions were included but once you arrive in Spain you just need to look for the ‘shell’ and ‘yellow arrow’ to find your ‘way’. I am 67 years old & consciously chose to walk alone however I met some fabulous people along the way and finally had hours on end with ‘no headchatter’. There’s healing which catches you unaware & makes every step very worthwhile. ...more ...less

Cathy Eaton (Google Reviewer)  

UTracks “Footsteps of Dali” is...

07-Nov-2024

UTracks “Footsteps of Dali” is a predominantly coastal walk from the very lovely French town Collioure to Cadeques in Spain. There are 2 routes to choose each day and each have different elevation and distance. On day 5 (the 4th day of walking) there is an option to climb up to a monastery. Try not to do this on the only day it is closed (as we did) - Monday. In my opinion the day between Cerbere and Llanca was the best - really pretty coastal scenery and included some rock hopping around the sea edge. The hotels were all family run and comfortable but usually a bit out of the centre. The luggage transfers worked well. (We didn’t have supplied luggage labels and so used sticky sports tape each day to label the next hotel name). Breakfasts were all excellent, dinners varied a bit - but they were adequate. I thought the trip was good value. The trails were not crowded and I recommend October as a good time for this hike. There is little shade so it would be extremely hot at the peak of summer. ...more ...less

Ian Freestone (Google Reviewer)  

Recently two trips with utracks....

26-Aug-2024

Recently two trips with utracks. Mont Blanc self-guided and Austrian hike-bike. In summary, the experience is only as good as the local partner. In Austria, Helmut was amazing! Met with us prior - went over every detail of the trip, answered his phone if we had a concern. Mont Blanc, the partner would only communicate by text, did not meet us on arrival, and would not return calls even when we had an emergency. Other concerns we raised with utracks staff were not responded to adequately leaving the feeling that they had our money, job done. ...more ...less

Amanda Fairley (Google Reviewer)  

Self-guided Hadrian’s Wall Walk. The local...

24-Sep-2024

Self-guided Hadrian’s Wall Walk. The local agent’s documentation needs immediate updating to include current accommodation used and their locations. I also had to uncover (it was not proactively disclosed to me) a double up in accommodation location booking (same town over two nights but different accommodation 160 metres apart) by the same local agent which resulted in me having to walk two days of distance in one day, back track for accommodation on the second night and be charged for a 160m bag transfer! UTracks did apologise and the local agent covered my dinner one night as compensation, but the situation would not have happened if either UTracks or their local agent had reviewed their itinerary which would have called out quite loudly to them the messy issue, before finalising it and providing it to me. I was later contacted by UTracks to acknowledge my post trip feedback, but stating that both UTracks and their local agent had been in contact with me THROUGHOUT my walk. To be clear - I had one phone call initiated by UTracks after I had identified the issues and emailed them, and the only contact with the local agent were two emails and one phone call that I initiated to inform them of the issues they created, that I had to uncover. I wouldn’t describe that as anyone from UTracks or their local agent being in contact with me throughout my trip. It is important to not over state the service or support that people provide to a client. ...more ...less

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Atlantic Coast Cycle - Nantes to La Rochelle

8 Days Starting in Nantes, France and ending in La Rochelle, France

Visiting: Nantes, Saint Pierre et Saint Pauls Cathedral, Nantes, Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, Nantes, Passage Pommeraye, Nantes, Loire River, Paimboeuf, Saint-Brévin-les-Pins, Pornic, Bouin, National forest of Pays de Monts, Saint Jean de Monts, Gois causeway, Island of Noirmoutier, Sion-sur-l'Océan, St-Hilaire-de-Riez, St-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, Brétignolles-sur-Mer, Brem-sur-Mer, Les Sables-d'Olonne, La Tranche-sur-Mer, St-Vincent-sur-Jard, National Park of Longeville, La Belle-Henriette Lagoon, St-Michel-en-l'Herm, Marais Poitevin, Pont du Brault, Marans, La Rochelle, Île de Ré ...more ...less

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

NLR

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Active, Small Group

Interests:

Beach Tours

Activities:

Cycling, Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1790 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 18-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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