Explore the Charente by bike

Charente, the jewel of southwest France , is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. And what better way to explore them than by bike? Whether you are a fan of leisurely family rides or a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenge, the cycle paths and marked routes in this region offer an unforgettable cycling experience.

Discovering the Charente landscapes

Get on your bike and set off to explore the bucolic landscapes of Charente. From the rolling vineyards of Cognac to the green banks of the Charente, charming little villages and fields of sunflowers, each pedal stroke reveals a new facet of the region's natural beauty. The marked routes will guide you through quiet paths, far from the hustle and bustle of the main roads, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serenity of the Charente countryside.

Cycling roads and marked cycle routes in Charente

Charente has an excellent network of cycle routes and cycle paths ! These routes, whether national or European, offer an alternation between greenways dedicated to cyclists and small country roads with little traffic. A pleasant and ecological way to explore the department while roaming and at your own pace!

La Scandibérique ®, on the road to Santiago de Compostela

The Scandibérique ® is part of EuroVelo 3, a network of European cycle routes linking Trondheim in Norway to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. A route of 5,122 km , including 1,790 km in France, which notably follows the traditional routes taken by the pilgrims to Compostela. This cycle route crosses the Charente from Confolentais to Haute Saintonge, passing peacefully through Angoulême via the green belt of the Charente, a real river corridor along which small ports and locks pass, Cognac and Pineau hillsides. Along this route, the Charente reveals itself to the rhythm of its countryside, its vineyards as far as the eye can see and its small villages steeped in Romanesque art.

Find all the information: https://www.scandiberique.fr/

The Flow Vélo ®, from the countryside to the ocean

The Flow Vélo ® cycle route connects Périgord (Sarlat) to the Atlantic Ocean (Aix Island) over 350 km, crossing the Charente valley. This route winds along the Charente river, through the Cognac vineyards and offers beautiful stops such as Angoulême, Jarnac, Cognac or Saintes to discover the Charente at your own pace.

Find all the information: https://www.laflowvelo.com/

La Vélidéle

La Vélidale offers you an exceptional cycling adventure, linking Lake Vassivière in Creuse to Saint-Nazaire in Loire Atlantique, through five regional natural parks and numerous protected areas. Explore varied landscapes, from picturesque streets to large wild spaces, while discovering the Small Cities of Character and enjoying refreshing breaks near the lakes.

The Charente MTB Tour

Immerse yourself in the ultimate mountain bike adventure with the Tour Charente VTT, an exceptional route designed to delight mountain bike enthusiasts and enthusiasts. Unique in its kind, this long-distance route is the only permanent mountain bike route in the entire Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and ranks as the second longest mountain bike route in France, just after the great crossing of the Massif Central.

This route takes you through the varied landscapes of Charente, from the charming town of Confolens, nestled at the confluence of the Vienne and Goire rivers, to the renowned wine-growing lands of Cognac. Along the way, discover the green hills dotted with Romanesque churches and castles steeped in history in Barbezieux, Chalais and Villebois-Lavalette. A stop is essential at Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, classified among the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

Discovering the Charentais historical and cultural heritage by bike

During your cycling journey, let yourself be seduced by the rich historical and cultural heritage of Charente. Take a break in the charming villages with white stone houses and narrow streets, where time seems to have stood still. Explore the Romanesque churches and medieval castles that dot the landscape, witnesses to a rich and eventful past. Don't miss the many local markets either, where you can taste the delights of Charente cuisine and meet local artisans.

Prepare your cycling adventure in Charente

Before you head out on your adventure, make sure you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience . Check the condition of your bike and equip yourself with helmets, water bottles and detailed route maps. Also plan regular stops for rest and food, taking advantage of the many picnic areas and quaint cafes along the way.

In a large number of villages in Charente, campsites or motorhome areas provide access to showers, toilets and electricity for a few euros. The campsites are numerous and friendly, and the options for homestays are numerous! Enough to go on an adventure in complete peace of mind.

Whether you are alone, with family or friends, the Charente offers an unforgettable experience for cyclists. So get on your bike, breathe the fresh air of the Charente countryside and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this exceptional land.

Article and photos by Lesley Williamson

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