Cycling holidays in Charente and Limousin

Charente Waterways Cycling Holiday

Trailing willows and emerald waters

Charente WaterwaysEnlarge

A linear tour through the network of quiet waterways and tranquil canals, pretty villages and sandy beaches, ending up in the lovely port of La Rochelle. Cycling is mostly flat, with some enjoyable climbs and many dedicated cycle trails that criss-cross the Venice Verte.

View Prices & Book

Guide Price

£939

Prices per person (based on two sharing).

Book this holiday

Book online or call 01580 214 010

 

Charente Waterways Cycling Holiday

 

Charente and Limousin

Route Map

Rail Travel

Outward: Depart St Pancras International station, change stations in Paris, arrive Niort early evening. Transfer from station to hotel not included - 10 minute walk.

Return: Hotel is 400m from La Rochelle station, change stations in Paris, arrive St Pancras International station early evening.

  • Day 1 Arrival Niort
    • Settle into your hotel, situated close to Niort’s main square. There’s plenty of history on offer; why not explore the remnants of the 15th century keep?
  • Day 2 Day trip from Niort - 28 miles (44.8km)
    • A pleasant day trip which takes you along the slow moving waters and canals of the ‘Green Venice’. Why not hire a boat to discover its network of emerald green waterways before heading back to Niort.
  • Day 3 Niort to Fontenay le Comte - 28 miles (44.8km)
    • Your leisurely exploration of the watery labyrinth of the Marais Poitevin continues as you head towards Fontenay through peaceful back lanes. Pass by quiet waterways scattered with water lilies, and home to a variety of migratory birds. Visit one of the last working watermills at Nieul sur l’Autise.
  • Day 4 Day trip Fontenay le Comte - 10-30 miles (16-48km) - 10 miles (16km)
    • Today you have the chance to explore the historic Mervent forest, rich in oak and chestnut. It’s a hilly ride offering idyllic views over flatlands and lakes. ‘One of France’s prettiest villages’, the village of Vouvant is worth exploring. Or why not take it easy and just wander around Fontenay itself, soaking up the atmosphere.
  • Day 5 Fontenay le Comte to La Rochelle - 41 miles (65.6km)
    • There are only a handful of bridges across the marshes, so the run to La Rochelle is longish, but flat. Your day begins along the Autise river as you pass low-roofed houses and head for the small port of Marans. You may wish to learn more about the region’s culture at ‘La Maison du Petit Poitou’ in Chaillé-les-Marais, or stop at the mussel farm in Esnandes. As you approach La Rochelle the wetlands give way to sand dunes and fresh marine air. Your hotel is located in a prime position in the picturesque old port.
  • Day 6 Day trip from La Rochelle - 20-55 miles (32-88km)
    • The idyllic Ile de Ré is well worth a visit, explore the whole island (16 miles long) or just relax on one of its white sandy beaches. In the evening enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic before dining in the restaurant with panoramic views over the town of La Rochelle.
 

Charente Waterways Location & Route

Key:

 
Hotels you will be staying at:

Charente Waterways View Hotels & Cuisine

  • Hotel - Hotel Mercure - Niort

    • The Mercure Niort Marais Poitevin is a modern bright and spacious hotel in the centre of town but under the shade of large trees in its garden. The 79 rooms are spacious and comfortable with their own bathrooms.

      Hotel Facilities

      • Town location.
      • 2 Resaurants.
      • Bar.
      • Swimming Pool.
      • Private outdoor parking.
      • Internet access.

      View full details

       
  • Hotel - Le Rabelais Fontenay Le Comte

    • This Logis de France hotel, only 5 minutes from the town centre, set in a flowered and shaded park, Hotel le Rabelais makes for a relaxing base, and is ideally located for exploring the Mervent forest.

      Hotel Facilities

      • Beautiful gardens.
      • Open air swimming pool.
      • Relaxing cosy lounges.
      • Suitable for families with children.

      View full details

       
  • Hotel - L'Oceanide La Rochelle

    • This hotel is part of the Mercure chain, and has therefore been selected for its ideal location as opposed to any innate French-ness. Situated between the historic town and the new port, it's a great spot to explore bustling La Rochelle and near enough to venture onto the island of Ile de Ré.

      Hotel Facilities

      • Well located in the heart of the city.
      • Upper level restaurant with view of La Rochelle.
      • Within 1km of the station.
      • Many attractions on your doorstep.

      View full details

       
 

Charente Waterways Prices & Book

Own Travel

£939 Prices per person (based on two sharing).

Rail Inclusive

£1199 Prices per person (based on two sharing).

Ferry Inclusive

£992 Prices per person (based on two sharing).

 

High season (14 July - 1 September) add £30. Starting days: Saturday, Sunday. In July and August - any day start.

Use the form below to send us a Booking Request for this holiday and we will contact you to arrange the details.

Booking Request Form
Please Note: Do not enter your credit/debit card details here. Should we need them, we'll get back in touch with you.

Want to know more?

Why not give us a call and we'll help you pick a holiday that suits you.

To book or tailor this holiday call us on 01580 214 010