Greenways of France # 6: The Loire-Atlantique coast by bike

In Loire-Atlantique, from Mesquer to Bourgneuf-en-Retz, cycling enthusiasts have the opportunity to travel on a magnificent greenway. The route is a portion of the Vélocéan, a link between the Vilaine estuary and the Côte d'Amour, which will eventually link Roscoff and Nantes.

In Loire-Atlantique, the Velocean drives cyclists between the seafront and inland. Over 140 kilometers, athletes can thus discover the Loire-Atlantique by bike. The greenway, partially marked in both directions, connects the towns of the the coast . A wonderful way to admire the natural, cultural and historical heritage of the region. And this beautiful coastal route deserves that we linger there, so much the landscapes, the towns and villages, but also the remarkable sites mark out its course.

The Loire-Atlantique coast by bike

From Mesquer, the route crosses the countryside to Guérande. AT Guerande, two routes are available to visitors. Head toward The Baule through wonderful landscapes, or take a detour to the unforgettable tour of the Croisi peninsulavs. Whatever route you choose, do not miss to go through the very pretty Grande-Côte bike path and the port of Pouliguen. After this maritime escapade, the main route goes through the land in the direction of Saint Nazaire. This country course crosses the woods to the pond in Joalland wood. Treat yourself to a cool break by practicing one of the many water activities available around the pond. Then place in urban areas, then ports and the seafront. The Loire-Atlantique portion of the Vélocéan also continues further south. She then runs along the great beaches of Saint-Brevin-les-Pins, before joining the coves of Pornic and Préfailles, to finish in Bourgneuf-en-Retz.

Remarkable sites

Discover the Loire-Atlantique coast by bike is the opportunity to contemplate many natural and cultural sites of great beauty. Rocky coves and large sandy beaches follow one another. The greenway also crosses the emblematic seaside resorts of this department. La Baule, Pornic, Pouliguen, Pornichet evoke in everyone, the sweetness of life and seaside holidays. At Saint-Brévin beach, give in to the pleasure of an initiation to sand yachting. North, the salt marshes of Guérande offer a dive into history. The medieval city and the landscapes are there of any beauty. Fishing villages de Mesquer or Piriac-sur-mer allow you to immerse yourself in the culture and heritage left by populations facing the ocean.

The Vélocéan with the family

The Loire-Atlantique coast by bike is accessible to families. The greatest caution is however necessary when entering this route with young children. Cyclists use dedicated lanes, but also lanes shared with other road users. As a family, therefore prefer the less urban portions.

The greenways of the department

The Velocean is not the only green route accessible in Loire-Atlantique. If this allows you to discover the magnificent jagged coastline, the end of the route The Loire by bike offers a very beautiful descent of the river to its estuary. To finish, the Velodyssey also crosses the Loire-Atlantique. This famous French part of Atlantic Coast Route - Eurovélo 1 runs along the Atlantic for 1 kilometers.