La Vélo Francette links Ouistreham on the Channel coast with La Rochelle on the Atlantic. The route crosses Normandy, Pays de la Loire and Poitou-Charentes, following waterways through smaller towns and changing countryside.
Ouistreham, Caen and the Orne valley
From Ouistreham’s ferry terminal and the coast near Sword Beach, the first section follows the Orne canal towards Caen, passing Pegasus Bridge. Beyond Caen, a former railway greenway follows the river into Suisse Normande.
The Orne’s meanders and granite gorges lead towards Clécy and Pont-d’Ouilly. The option through La Roche d’Oëtre involves hillier minor roads and a viewpoint over the wooded Rouvre gorge.
River towns towards the Atlantic
Domfront, Mayenne and Laval connect the northern countryside with the Mayenne valley. Farther south, the itinerary reaches Angers and shares sections with La Loire à Vélo towards Saumur.
The Thouet then links places including Montreuil-Bellay, Thouars and Parthenay, before the journey continues towards the Marais Poitevin and La Rochelle.
Choosing your itinerary
The official website presents 23 sections with individual descriptions, surfaces and riding character. Use those details to select suitable stretches: the route combines greenways, towpaths and minor roads, with differing levels of climbing.