Most people think cycling in the Loire Valley is flat, easy, and predictable. It can be — but if you stick to the checklist routes, you miss what makes this place special. In this video, I share 10 hard-earned tips to help you ride the Loire Valley properly: when to ride, where to leave the river, how wind, heat, gravel, and small climbs shape the day, and why villages often matter more than famous châteaux. This isn’t about ticking boxes or chasing distance. It’s about rhythm, light, atmosphere, and letting the landscape guide you. If you want to experience cycling in France slowly, thoughtfully, and with purpose — this is the Loire Valley done right.
Watch the Anjou Velo Vintage film here https://youtu.be/EjZgRhXLScg
For more information on cycling in the Loire Valley
Loire Valley Cycling – The Complete Guide to Cycling France’s Most Beautiful Region
Honest picks — I actually own and use all of these. These are affiliate links, so I get a small commission if you buy through them (at no extra cost to you). It helps keep the channel going.
Camera — Insta360 Ace Pro 2
My main camera for cycling videos. 8K, flips up for vlogging, sharp in low light. Replaced my old action cam and I haven’t looked back.
https://amzn.to/4qMBP7I
360° camera — Insta360 X-series
For the wide shots and the moving footage where you want to reframe later. Worth it if you’re filming rides solo.
https://amzn.to/3OocaVg
Microphone — Hollyland Lark A1
Clip-on wireless mic. Clean audio even in wind. Single biggest upgrade to video quality I’ve made — a good mic matters more than a better camera.
https://amzn.to/3ZJ3oUf
Bike computer — iGPSPORT
What I use for route recording and navigation. Solid alternative to Garmin at half the price.
https://amzn.to/4r1Mg7D
Tripod
Large, stable, survives being left out in the Alps.
https://amzn.to/4aCpcGd
Help support the channel and buy me a coffee
https://buymeacoffee.com/morethan21bends
#CyclingInFrance
#LoireValley
#BikeTouring
#CyclingLifestyle
#FrenchCycling
3 Comments
I was born in the Loire ball and would love to return. Not alone, but with a like minded group that wants to spend time riding the entire distance.
This is some of the best cycle touring advice I have ever heard. Having visited the Loire three times recently, I'm 70, I agree with it all. Eat and drink and view sloowwllyy!
Which of these 10 tips surprised you most?"