The best road cycling routes around Thouars
4.8
(8)
1,135
riders
262
rides
Road cycling routes around Thouars are set within the Deux-Sèvres department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. The region is characterized by its position on a rocky promontory overlooking the Thouet River, offering varied terrain for cyclists. The Thouet Valley provides a scenic backdrop, with routes often following the river's meanders and passing through a mix of open landscapes and historical towns. The area features mostly paved surfaces, with some routes incorporating sections of the Vélo Francette.
Best road cycling routes around Thouars
…Last updated: July 6, 2026
32
riders
81.6km
03:40
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
66.8km
02:45
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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16
riders
93.0km
03:46
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
17
riders
37.8km
02:09
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
14
riders
60.3km
02:28
250m
250m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around Thouars
Tips from the Community
The contemporary art center of national interest, La Chapelle Jeanne d’Arc de Thouars, is today a leading venue for contemporary art in the western region. Along with the Château d’Oiron and the Syndicat Mixte de la Vallée du Thouet, which runs a program of public commissions for contemporary works, the art center's work is carried out in partnership across the entire territory of the Pays Thouarsais community of communes and, more broadly, in the northern part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Within the region, the art center is a recognized player in the Astre plastic and visual arts network. Developing an artistic project that takes into account its geographical location and its architectural envelope, a neo-Gothic chapel, the art center maintains a privileged relationship with the heritage of Thouars. Guest artists, hosted for residencies or exhibitions, appropriate the chapel space by creating an original work designed for the venue. They also bring their perspective to the city, urban planning, landscape, and rural areas of the Thouars region and the Thouet Valley. Since 1993, nearly a hundred artists have been invited for residencies or exhibition projects. In recent years, the art center has paid particular attention to emerging artists from art schools, particularly those from the regional Le Grand Huit network. In addition to its programming, the art center also engages in outreach activities in the form of off-site exhibitions, workshops, and events (meetings, lectures, and workshops). A mobile device, La Mar(g)elle, was created in 2015 by the artist Marie-Ange Guilleminot to offer interventions in partner locations, particularly within schools and structures in the social and medical sectors. For its educational action, the art center benefits from the action of the municipal art school of Thouars, to which it is connected within the visual arts department of the City of Thouars.
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place steeped in history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of this ancient site and discover the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, an architectural and historical jewel that will fascinate young and old alike. Thanks to captivating exhibitions, fascinating guided tours and a rich cultural programme, you will immerse yourself in the unique world of this abbey, founded in the 11th century and once a necropolis of the Plantagenets. Every stone, every vault, every corner tells a story... But Fontevraud is much more than a historical site... Broaden your discovery with a visit to the Fontevraud Museum of Modern Art, which houses more than 800 works donated by Martine and Léon Cligman. A prestigious collection that combines ancient and modern art, for an artistic immersion through the ages. Triggered? Find out more at https://www.ot-saumur.fr/en/abbeys-and-religious-heritage/royal-abbey-of-fontevraud-5344942/
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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The Market Square is lined with houses whose construction dates from the 14th to the 19th century: the oldest house in the town (probably 1399) at no. 3, the old town house at no. 15 and the old Barony Registry (16th century) at no. 42.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Thouars?
There are over 260 road cycling routes around Thouars, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Thouars?
Road cycling routes in Thouars primarily feature paved surfaces, often following the scenic meanders of the Thouet River. You'll encounter varied terrain, from the flat riverbanks to gentle climbs on the rocky promontory where Thouars is situated, and through open rural landscapes. Some longer routes may include sections of the Vélo Francette.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Thouars?
Yes, Thouars offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners and families. There are 48 easy routes, typically up to two hours long with minimal elevation gain, mostly on paved surfaces. These are perfect for a relaxed ride, such as the Thouars loop from Thouars.
Are there challenging road cycling routes around Thouars?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 5 difficult road cycling routes around Thouars. These routes can involve significant elevation gains and longer distances, demanding very good fitness. An example is the Troglodytes – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars, which covers nearly 93 km with over 500 meters of elevation gain.
What scenic viewpoints or natural features can I see while cycling in Thouars?
Many routes offer picturesque views of the Thouet River valley. You can cycle past the Pont des Chouans on the Thouet, enjoy the tranquility of the riverbanks, or stop at Pommiers Waterfall. The area also features green spaces like Imbert Park and the serene La Ballastière Lake, which are pleasant stops along cycling paths.
Are there any interesting historical landmarks along the road cycling routes?
Thouars is rich in history, and many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can admire the impressive 17th-century Château des Ducs de la Trémoille, remnants of 12th-century ramparts, and the historic Saint-Médard Church of Thouars. The Troglodytes – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars specifically highlights historical sites.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Thouars?
The road cycling routes in Thouars are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic beauty of the Thouet River valley, and the opportunity to explore historical architecture and charming rural landscapes.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Thouars?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Thouars are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular circular routes include the Thouars – The Argenton River loop from Thouars and the Breathtaking view – Pont des Chouans on the Thouet loop from Saint-Jacques-de-Thouars.
What is the best season for road cycling in Thouars?
Thouars offers enjoyable road cycling conditions for much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may vary, so checking local weather is advisable.
Are there longer road cycling routes available for endurance training?
Absolutely. For those looking for longer rides, Thouars offers several routes exceeding 60 miles. The Château de Saumur – Saumur loop from Thouars is a moderate 103 km path that extends towards the Loire Valley, providing diverse terrain and views suitable for longer endurance rides.
Can I find routes that are part of long-distance cycling paths?
Yes, Thouars is integrated into the Vélo Francette route. Cyclists can join sections of this long-distance path from Thouars, heading towards destinations like Saumur or Parthenay, and experience well-maintained paths and varied terrain.
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