A 6-day tour of Saumur and the Loire Valley
This 135km tour invites you to explore the riches of the Saumur region and the Loire Valley, an area where natural and historical heritage blend harmoniously. From the majestic Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, the necropolis of the Plantagenets, to the châteaux and elegant residences, via the troglodyte dwellings dug into the tufa and falun, this walk is a complete immersion in the heart of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park.
PRACTICAL TIPS AND INFORMATION :
This loop, signposted along its entire length, can be done from Saumur and is ideally completed in 6 days. It is accessible to all levels of ability, with a few changes in altitude to be expected in the wine-growing and forested areas. Depending on your preferences, it can be divided into 6 stages.
CAR-FREE HOLIDAY :
Saumur is easily accessible by train, with a station located right in the town centre. This means you can get straight to the heart of the town without needing a car, and everything you need to make the most of your stay is within easy reach.
BREAKDOWN OF THE LOOP :
- Saumur > Gennes: 26.9 km - Marked GR® White and Red and GR®P Yellow and Red
- Gennes > Doué-la-Fontaine: 22.3 km - Signposted GR® White and Red and GR®P Yellow and Red
- Doué-la-Fontaine > Montreuil-Bellay : 28.5 km - Signposted GR® Blanc et Rouge and GR®P Jaune et Rouge
- Montreuil-Bellay > Saint-Cyr-en-Bourg : 14.4 km - Signposted GR® White and Red and GR®P Yellow and Red
- Saint-Cyr-en-Bourg > Montsoreau: 25.5 km - Signposted GR® Blanc et Rouge and GR®P Jaune et Rouge
- Montsoreau > Saumur : 17.8 km - Signs GR® Blanc et Rouge and GR®P Jaune et Rouge
ACCOMMODATION ON THE ROUTE :
Throughout your walk, you'll find comfortable accommodation located directly on the route, ideal for taking a break or extending your stay. If you would like contact details for accommodation providers, please contact the Saumur Val-de-Loire Tourist Office, which will be able to provide you with all the information you need.
TO DISCOVER ALONG THE WAY :
Discover the many and varied treasures along the way:
- The Loire Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering panoramic views of the river and its surroundings.
- The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud: Visit this majestic abbey, a veritable necropolis of the Plantagenets, a testimony to medieval history.
- Castles and beautiful homes: Admire the castles and historic homes dotted along the route, symbols of a rich past.
- Troglodytic dwellings of tuffeau and faluns: Explore the dwellings dug into the cliffs of tuffeau and faluns, characteristic of this region.
- The Thouet: Follow this peaceful stream as it guides you through unspoilt countryside and peaceful landscapes.
