From Angers, join La Loire à Vélo via the Maine and Bouchemaine, then head upstream towards Saumur or downstream towards Nantes. The official two-day Angers–Saumur suggestion adds up to about 70 km; Angers–Nantes is around 107 km, depending on the route. For a first outing, choose a shorter out-and-back ride. Bikes can be stored in Mon Château Angers’ inner courtyard, but the apartment does not claim Accueil Vélo certification.
Joining the Loire from the Maine
Angers is a gateway to the Loire, rather than a city directly on its banks. The official route suggestion heads towards Bouchemaine and La Pointe, where the Maine meets the Loire. From there, choose between Saumur upstream and Savennières and Nantes downstream. 1
Download the correct route before leaving. A riverside promenade is not necessarily a continuous cycle route to your destination. Check current route information, weather and any diversions, and decide where to turn back while everyone still has plenty of energy.
Our suggestion for a gentle first outing is to concentrate on the connection towards Bouchemaine. With children or a trailer, ask your hire company which route genuinely suits your equipment and experience. Allow time for stops rather than treating the published distance as a target to beat.
Distances and realistic stages
These figures come from different official suggestions: they are not guaranteed door-to-door distances from the apartment. Access sections, detours and variants are additional. Sources: 1, 2, 3.
| Ride | Published distance | Planning advice |
|---|---|---|
| Angers–Gennes-Val-de-Loire | 48 km | First day towards Saumur |
| Gennes-Val-de-Loire–Saumur | 22 km | Second day, with time for stops |
| Angers–Saumur, this two-day suggestion | About 70 km | Total of those two specific stages |
| Angers–La Pommeraye | 50 km | First stage of a Nantes-bound suggestion |
| Angers–Nantes | 107 km | Overall reference; check your chosen variant |
Do not combine distances from unrelated variants to create an over-tight schedule. Wind, surfaces, luggage and breaks affect the effort required. An electric bike helps with pedalling, but you still need to check its range and have a workable return plan.
Towards Saumur: allow two days
The official suggestion includes Bouchemaine, Sainte-Gemmes-sur-Loire and Le Thoureil, with an overnight stop around Gennes-Val-de-Loire or Les Rosiers-sur-Loire. This is a touring itinerary, not a loop returning to Angers each evening. 1
If Angers remains your base, ride just part of the route. For a one-way ride to Saumur, check the bicycle conditions of your intended return transport before leaving. Do not assume there will be space or that reservations are unnecessary, particularly with several bicycles.
Towards Nantes: a direction rather than a day-trip target
The Nantes-bound suggestion links Bouchemaine, Béhuard, Savennières and La Possonnière before continuing towards Montjean-sur-Loire and La Pommeraye. It warns of a steep climb after La Pointe towards Épiré; the riverside alternative is narrower and less easy to ride. A river route is not automatically completely flat or effortless. 1
Choose a modest destination for a holiday outing. Lunch, photographs and an unhurried return may be more enjoyable than chasing a distant finish. Our guides to Anjou wines and châteaux from Angers offer ideas for separate days rather than extra compulsory stops.
Bicycle hire and the Accueil Vélo label
Destination Angers lists hire companies including Bo Biclou, Timy Mobility and Cycles Plein Air. It also mentions a summer bicycle concierge service at the tourist office; confirm availability for your dates. No hire price is guaranteed here. 1
Ask about frame size, electric assistance, panniers, helmets and children’s equipment. Confirm collection and return times, deposits, breakdown support and cancellation conditions. Do not assume an urban shared bicycle is suitable or contractually available for a long touring stage.
Accueil Vélo identifies services designed for cyclists. France Vélo Tourisme lists access directions, advice, secure bicycle parking, charging facilities and repair equipment among its commitments. The label covers several types of business, not just accommodation. A courtyard alone does not establish certification. 1
Nature is Bike: check the calendar
Nature is Bike is an Angers festival devoted to gravel riding and cycling discovery. It usually takes place in the warmer season, generally around June; this is not an announcement of future dates. Check Destination Angers before booking a trip specifically for the event. 1
From the apartment
Mon Château Angers is at 6 boulevard du Général de Gaulle, directly opposite the Château d’Angers. The Maine quays are a two-minute walk away. Guests mention bicycle storage in the inner courtyard in their reviews. This is not a promise of individual lockers, a workshop, charging or surveillance: ask Cédric about arrangements for your bicycles.
The 35 m² apartment sleeps up to four, with a courtyard-facing bedroom, a living-room sofa bed, kitchenette and fibre Wi-Fi. Self check-in is available 24/7. See accommodation, practical information and Angers without a car. Book on mon-chateau-angers.fr through direct booking.
FAQ
Can I cycle from Angers to Saumur in one day?
An experienced cyclist might consider a long stage, but the suggestion here divides about 70 km over two days. Adapt the distance to your group and arrange the return in advance.
Is La Loire à Vélo entirely traffic-free?
Do not assume so. Check the road types on your exact route and seek advice for children, trailers or less confident riders.
Should I book bicycle hire before arriving?
Yes, especially if you need a particular bicycle or accessories. Confirm equipment, prices and terms directly with the hire company.
Is the apartment Accueil Vélo certified?
We do not claim this label. Courtyard bicycle storage is a separate practical arrangement to discuss with the host.
