The best traffic-free bike rides around Anjou

Anjou offers nearly 70 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes, providing a wide range of options for exploring the region's diverse landscapes. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring a pleasant ride for everyone.

Yes, Anjou has 10 easy no traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An example is the Sunrise at Coynaud loop from Salaise-sur-Sanne, which offers a gentle 39 km journey.

Anjou's no traffic routes traverse a rich variety of landscapes. You'll cycle along the scenic Loire and Loir river valleys, through picturesque vineyards, and past unique troglodyte dwellings carved into hillsides. The region also features wetlands like the Basses Vallées Angevines, offering ever-changing scenery.

Many routes pass by historical and natural points of interest. You might encounter charming churches like the Saint-Pierre Church of Assieu, or cross significant structures like the Sablons Bridge. The region is also known for its magnificent châteaux and the unique car-free village of Béhuard on the Loire.

Yes, many of Anjou's no traffic road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Bois Marquis Garden – Saint-Pierre Church of Assieu loop from Roussillon is a moderate 32 km circular route.

The komoot community highly rates the no traffic road cycling routes in Anjou, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the stunning vineyard scenery, and the well-maintained paths along the rivers, making for a truly immersive experience.

The best seasons for no traffic road cycling in Anjou are typically spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are particularly vibrant with blooming flowers or rich autumnal colors. Summer is also popular, especially along the river valleys, though it can be warmer.

Yes, Anjou offers 10 difficult no traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders seeking a challenge. There are also 48 moderate routes, such as the 76 km Gorges and the Cance Valley – Péréandre Rock loop from Bougé-Chambalud, which provides a substantial ride with varied terrain.

Absolutely. Anjou is renowned for its wine production, and many no traffic cycling routes, particularly in areas like Saumur, Aubance, and the Layon slopes, traverse picturesque vineyards. These routes often offer opportunities to stop at local wineries for tastings, including the acclaimed AOC Savennières white wines.

Yes, Anjou is defined by its rivers. The region is crisscrossed by routes that follow the Loire, Loir, Sarthe, Mayenne, and Maine rivers. The famous 'Loire by Bike' (EuroVelo 6) and 'Loir Valley by Bike' routes offer extensive no traffic sections along these waterways, providing hours of scenic cycling.

Beyond the rivers and vineyards, you'll encounter diverse natural features. The region boasts significant wetlands, such as the Basses Vallées Angevines, which are Natura 2000 sites with flood meadows, ponds, and rich biodiversity. You might also cycle through forests and past limestone hills.

Many routes in Anjou provide excellent viewpoints, especially those that climb gently through vineyard-clad hills or along riverbanks. For example, the View of lavender fields – Barbe Bleue Pass - 352 m loop from Chambalud offers elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscapes.