The Loire by bike in the Cher
The Loire by bike, the longest cycle route in France, starts in Cher
"The amazing Loire à Vélo cycling trail runs through one of the most beautiful regions of France following the majestic River Loire from Cuffy, in the Cher, to the Atlantic."" (Guide du Routard). The 800km trail, the longest cycle route in France, starts at Cuffy where the River Allier flows into the Loire and runs along the eastern border of the Cher département. Sometimes the trail follows the river Loire itself and at others its Canal Latéral. It is not a difficult trail in cycling terms with no major obstacles and it gives you time to stop and admire the myriad of treasures which border the river. Cycling through this 126km section of the Loire is an eco-friendly and sensory experience through a wilderness of unspoilt vegetation and abundant wildlife. Before setting out on this long haul, start off with a visit to one of the Loveliest Villages in France, Apremont-sur-Allier, to enjoy the wonderland atmosphere of its beautiful park and medieval houses beside the River Allier. Then go to ‘Kilometre Zero’ and… start pedalling !
The first of the essentials to see along the route is right at the starting point in Cuffy at the Bec d’Allier where the River Allier flows into the Loire. An amazing photo opportunity ! Then off you go along the Loire or the Canal as far as Marseilles-lès-Aubigny, an enchanting riverside village and harbour on the main part of the Loire with migratory and local birds, beavers, wading birds and gulls all busy on and by the river. Next stop is Beffes, where the clear waters of the old flooded quarry at Chabrolles have become a major Regional Diving Centre.