Cycling for a relaxing weekend in nature
A weekend cycling trip between the Loire plain, the Monts de la Madeleine, the vineyards of the Roannais region, and the hills of the Brionnais. You can enjoy the tranquility of the towpath along the Roanne to Digoin canal or test your legs in the Monts de la Madeleine: we can adapt the routes to all levels!
Welcome to a cycling tour between the Loire plain, the Monts de la Madeleine and the hills of Brionnais! Get ready for a thrilling adventure in the heart of varied and picturesque landscapes, where every pedal stroke reveals new treasures.
Our loop circuits, designed around our guest rooms bordering the Roanne to Digoin canal, are suitable for all levels, whether you are a beginner looking for a gentle ride or an experienced cyclist looking for challenges.
For those who enjoy leisurely rides, let yourself be charmed by our routes winding along the canal, on the Véloire, a greenway between the Saône and Loire rivers, offering soothing panoramas and encounters with local flora and fauna. These picturesque circuits are perfect for exploring with family or friends, at your own pace, without rushing.
For the more athletic and adrenaline-seeking, our cycling holidays take you to conquer the Monts de la Madeleine and the hills of the Brionnais, where the rolling landscapes promise thrills and breathtaking panoramas. Push your limits and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the scenery unfolding beneath your wheels, between verdant valleys and rugged ridges.
Whatever your level or desires, our loop trails will meet all your expectations and offer unforgettable moments of escape in the heart of the unspoiled nature of the Brionnais region. So, hop on your bike, let the wind carry you, and set off to discover the hidden treasures that dot our magnificent region.
The highlights of this hiking trip
- Varied landscapes between the Loire, vineyards and the Monts de la Madeleine
- Trails adapted to all levels, from relaxation to sport
- Villages of character such as Semur-en-Brionnais and Charlieu
- A nature immersion along the canal and the Véloire
- A comfortable stay in a bed and breakfast, ready to cycle without a worry
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Destination
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Start time
Melay (71340) -
Departure time
9:00 -
Arriving time
17:00 -
Equipment
Helmet required
Picture gallery
Day 1
Get ready for a day of adventure and discovery in the heart of the land of the 7 hills, the magnificent Brionnais, one of the most beautiful bocage in France! Your cycling trip will take you to discover three emblematic treasures of the region: Semur-en-Brionnais, Anzy-le-Duc and Charlieu.
Semur-en-Brionnais
Begin your exploration by discovering Semur-en-Brionnais, a true medieval gem perched atop a verdant hill. Stroll through its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the timeless atmosphere that pervades this place. Don't miss its castle, a testament to the region's turbulent history, and admire the panoramic views of the surrounding area from its ramparts.
Anzy-le-Duc
Continue your journey towards Anzy-le-Duc, where one of the most beautiful Romanesque churches in southern Burgundy stands majestically. Founded in the 9th century by the monks of Saint-Martin d'Autun, this church captivates visitors with the purity of its architecture and the richness of its sculpted decoration. Don't miss its crypt, unique in the Charolais-Brionnais region, which testifies to the antiquity and prosperity of this historically rich site.
charlieu
End your day on a high note with a visit to Charlieu, where history unfolds around every corner. Stroll through its historic center and be charmed by its half-timbered houses and picturesque alleyways. Don't miss its Benedictine abbey, a true masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, and marvel at its Gothic cloister. Enjoy the town's lively atmosphere by wandering through its colorful markets and sampling local specialties.
Full board accommodation in a bed and breakfast
We can offer you routes perfectly suited to your level: whether you are a beginner or experienced cyclist, we will have the route that suits you!
Day 2
Today, we suggest heading towards the Monts de la Madeleine, with landscapes very different from yesterday's. We'll be exploring mid-mountain terrain, but also vineyards. Your cycling route will take you to three unmissable stops: Le Crozet, Ambierle, and the Lespinasse forest.
The Crozet
Begin your journey by exploring Le Crozet, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Monts de la Madeleine. Let yourself be captivated by its picturesque streets and authentic atmosphere. Take the opportunity to soak up the tranquility of the place and admire the spectacular panoramas offered by the surrounding mountains.
Ambierle
Continue your journey towards Ambierle, renowned for its vineyards and historical heritage. Stroll through its medieval streets and discover its architectural treasures, such as the Church of Saint-Martin and its twisted spire, a true emblem of the village. Take the opportunity to taste local wines and discover the secrets of winemaking in the Roannais region.
Lespinasse forest
End your day on a high note by venturing into the mysterious Lespinasse forest, a haven of peace and unspoiled nature. Explore its winding paths and let yourself be captivated by the tranquility of this vast forest.
This cycling tour is self-guided and at your own risk. We will provide you with a tour pack, which will be sent to you by post or email three weeks before your arrival date, containing:
- The contact details for the accommodations.
- The IGN maps will be highlighted.
- The route in .gpx format for GPS.
Departure from Melay, on the day of your choice.
Parking: You have the option of parking your vehicle in a free public car park in Melay (or in the car park of the bed and breakfast where you stayed if you arrived the day before).
Train access: shuttle bus from Roanne station or Le Creusot – Montchanin TGV station to Marcigny.
Dispersion at Melay.
In the event of abandonment along the way, skipped stage or other unused service due to the hikers, no refund can be demanded.
We may sometimes need to slightly modify the indicated itinerary: either due to organizational issues (problems with accommodation availability, changes in terrain conditions, etc.). These modifications will always be communicated to you at the time of booking.
You are the sole judge of your strengths and your ability to manage unexpected situations (fatigue, weather, presence of animals, changes in terrain, etc.).
We decline all responsibility in case of error on your part regarding orientation (error or change of route) or time management (departure too late in the morning, picnic break too long...).
You must be able to follow a route using a 1/25000 map, a route sheet written by us and clues on the ground.
What you need or don't need:
Shampoo and shower gel are not provided in the accommodations.
You will only be carrying a backpack containing your belongings for the day including your picnic, so we recommend a 40-litre backpack (an insulated backpack is a plus for carrying your picnic).
Equip yourself with rain gear.
To avoid the consumption of plastic bottles, consider bringing one or two reusable water bottles per person of at least 1,5 liters, which will be filled every morning before your departure.
Don't forget the small emergency pharmacy (antiseptic, bandages, blister plasters, aspirin, mosquito and tick repellent, tick remover, sunscreen, earplugs...).
Bed linen and towels are provided in each accommodation.
For 2 to 3 participants sharing the same room: €130 per person, full board
For 4 to 5 participants sharing the same room: €115 per person, full board
These rates are for people sharing the same room and bathroom.
For single people, for people wishing for separate rooms, a supplement will be indicated when the quote is drawn up.
In all cases, these prices are given as an indication only; depending on your requests, a quote will be drawn up before booking.
These prices include:
The complete organization of your hike.
Accommodation during the hike, including full board from picnic lunch on day 1 to picnic lunch on day 2
Luggage transport.
The routes on the IGN map for each day of hiking.
GPX tracks for each day of hiking can be downloaded before your arrival.
These prices do not include:
Drinks outside of meals and personal expenses.
Accommodation the day before and the last day of hiking (optional).
Transportation to the starting point of the hike and back.
Electric bike rental (optional).