The best road cycling routes around Vaudelnay
4.0
(25)
731
riders
186
rides
Road cycling routes around Vaudelnay traverse the scenic Maine-et-Loire department, characterized by its river valleys and extensive vineyards. The region's terrain offers a mix of gentle gradients along waterways and rolling hills through agricultural landscapes. Cyclists can explore routes that connect charming villages and historical sites within the wider Loire Valley, with predominantly gentle terrain and minimal climbing.
Best road cycling routes around Vaudelnay
- The most popular road cycling route is Fontevraud Royal Abbey – Montsoreau Castle loop from Montreuil-Bellay…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.5
(4)
37
riders
63.9km
02:53
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
15
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
10
riders
36.6km
01:33
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
41.3km
01:38
190m
190m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
7
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
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).
3
0
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/
4
0
The community's house of worship stands out on the horizon with its tower like a landmark.
0
0
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.
5
0
Dating from the 13th century, at the foot of the city ramparts, this bridge ultimately offers the best view of the Château de Thouars.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Vaudelnay?
Road cycling around Vaudelnay offers a diverse landscape. You'll find a mix of gentle gradients along the Loire and Thouet river valleys, as well as rolling hills through the region's extensive vineyards and agricultural areas. The terrain provides options for various fitness levels, from easy loops to more moderate distances.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Vaudelnay area?
There are over 170 road cycling routes available around Vaudelnay. This includes a wide range of options, with 42 easy routes, 123 moderate routes, and 8 more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes near Vaudelnay?
Yes, Vaudelnay offers several easy road cycling routes suitable for families. These routes often follow flatter sections along river valleys or through less strenuous vineyard areas. For example, the Ballastière Pond – The Argenton River loop from Le Puy-Notre-Dame is an easy 22.7-mile (36.6 km) trail that leads through natural areas and is generally completed in about 1 hour 32 minutes.
What historical landmarks or points of interest can I see along the cycling routes?
The region is rich in history and culture. You can cycle past significant sites like the Montreuil-Bellay Castle, which is featured on the Fontevraud Royal Abbey – Montsoreau Castle loop from Montreuil-Bellay. Other notable attractions include the Abbaye d'Asnières and the scenic Ballastière Pond. The broader Loire Valley also features charming villages, vineyards, and distinctive troglodyte dwellings.
Are there any routes that explore the local vineyards?
Absolutely. Vaudelnay is situated within the renowned Loire Valley wine region, and many road cycling routes wind through picturesque vineyards, particularly around areas like Montreuil-Bellay. The Saumur Wine Route is a highlight that allows cyclists to immerse themselves in the viticultural landscape.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Vaudelnay?
The best time for road cycling in Vaudelnay is typically during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for longer rides, and you can enjoy the blooming landscapes or the vibrant colors of the vineyards. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.
Can I access national cycling routes like the Vélo Francette or Loire à Vélo from Vaudelnay?
Yes, Vaudelnay is well-positioned to access major national cycling routes. Montreuil-Bellay, just 3 km away, is a key stage on the Thouet section of the Vélo Francette. This route allows you to explore agricultural paths and vineyards. The famous Loire à Vélo route, offering extensive cycling opportunities along the Loire River, is also within reach, providing enchanting landscapes and connecting charming villages. You can find more information about the Loire à Vélo route between Angers and Bouchemaine here.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Vaudelnay?
The road cycling routes in Vaudelnay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 22 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, which includes scenic river valleys and vineyards, as well as the opportunity to connect charming historical villages and landmarks.
Are there any circular road cycling routes starting near Vaudelnay?
Yes, many road cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For instance, the Le Puy-Notre-Dame – The Argenton River loop from Le Puy-Notre-Dame is an easy 41.3-kilometer (25.7 miles) route that takes you through river valleys. Another popular option is the Roadbike loop from Montreuil-Bellay, which covers 44.8 kilometers (27.8 miles).
Are there opportunities to combine cycling with other activities, like visiting natural parks?
Beyond the immediate surroundings of Vaudelnay, the broader Maine-et-Loire department offers various natural attractions. These include the sprawling nature area of Île Saint-Aubin near Angers, accessible by ferry for walks and bike rides, and Terra Botanica, Europe's largest botanical theme park. The Ballastière of Saint-Martin-de-Sanzay pond, located along a cycling route, also provides a leisure area with picnic facilities.
Are there any road cycling routes that follow rivers?
Yes, the region is shaped by the Loire and Thouet rivers, offering beautiful riverside cycling paths. The Saint-Médard Church of Thouars – Thouars loop from Montreuil-Bellay, for example, provides scenic views of the Thouet River and local architecture. The Vélo Francette also follows sections of the Thouet River, allowing cyclists to enjoy tranquil settings.
Most popular attractions around Vaudelnay
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
