Cycling the River Loire: The Way of St. Martin

The River Loire invites cyclists to explore it. Without a stifling cycle way artificially created along the river's banks, the route is instead accompanied by an abundance of country lanes, tempting cyclists to find those hidden gems which make this journey an unending pleasure.The route has something for everyone. It includes dramatic vistas from high above the Ardeche Gorge, lazy days of flat riding through fields of indolent cattle, the chance to explore vineyards producing some or the world's finest vintages and the great collection of castles and palaces which line the river's banks.Accommodation is plentiful, whether you prefer the cheapest gtes d' tape, the friendly chambres d'h tes, or the comfortable hotels. Wherever cyclists stay, they will be welcomed warmly and their needs will be well catered for.This book, divided into twenty-three comfortable stages, includes a dramatic approach to the source of the River Loire at Le Gerbier de Jonc, a route alongside the whole of the river and suggestions of how to return to the U.K.

A complete cyclist's guide from Orange in Provence to the route to the river's source, then down the Loire. The guide takes the rider from the wild Massif Central through to the gentle countryside of central France and includes tactics for getting there and getting the best from the route.

Guide to cycling the entire length of the River Loire. Maps and illustrations throughout.