Véloire follows the upper Loire country from the spa town of Montrond-les-Bains towards Paray-le-Monial. France Vélo Tourisme describes a 140 km journey with two distinct characters: small roads through the Forez countryside and Loire gorges south of Roanne, followed by a greenway alongside the Roanne-to-Digoin canal.
From Montrond-les-Bains to Roanne
The southern part begins in Montrond-les-Bains and follows small roads through the Loire countryside. Between Balbigny and Roanne the terrain becomes more pronounced, with the route passing through the Loire gorges. Roannais Tourisme describes this as a shared-road section, where riders should be alert to motor vehicles.
France Vélo Tourisme recommends the Montrond-to-Roanne section for cyclists with some experience. The contrast matters when choosing a trip: a journey along the whole Véloire asks for a different level of confidence from a ride on the northern greenway alone.
North from Roanne
At Roanne, the route takes on a waterside character. The local greenway follows the former towpath beside the Roanne-to-Digoin canal, passing locks and the marina at Briennon. The port at Roanne itself is a useful place to orient a shorter ride.
Beyond the canal-side stretch, the local network offers views of the Loire near Pouilly-sous-Charlieu and Saint-Pierre-la-Noaille. A metal bridge crosses the Sornin, while a connection leads towards Charlieu. The Department of Loire describes the onward route through Iguerande into the Saône-et-Loire greenway network.
Places to pause
Briennon’s marina makes a natural canal-side stop, with the church of Saint-Irénée overlooking the water. Near Mably, the Gravière aux oiseaux offers an opportunity to observe the plants and wildlife of a wetland setting.
For a cultural detour, Charlieu has a Benedictine abbey, medieval lanes and timber-framed buildings. Roannais Tourisme also identifies the hospital museum and silk museum as places to explore. At the northern end of the longer itinerary, Paray-le-Monial’s basilica provides a landmark before a possible continuation on EuroVelo 6.
Planning the ride
France Vélo Tourisme says the route between Montrond-les-Bains and Paray-le-Monial is signed in both directions with the Véloire logo and national identifier V71. Its guide distinguishes the flatter greenway north of Roanne from the hillier shared roads to the south.
The Loire can overflow after heavy winter rain, so check conditions before travelling in such weather. The Department of Loire also describes further extensions towards the Saint-Étienne area and an eventual ViaRhôna connection as future plans; they should not be treated as part of the completed trip.