Angoulême to the Ile de Ré by bike, Flow Vélo and Vélodyssée

This self-guided trip follows the Flow Vélo along the Charente river from Angoulême, the "capital of comic strips," through vineyard country to Cognac, home of the famous spirit. Riders continue through the Saintonge region to Saintes, taking in its Gallo-Roman amphitheatre, then on to the naval town of Rochefort with its Corderie Royale and transporter bridge.

The route then shifts to coastal riding, following the Vélodyssée past Châtelaillon and the fishing village of Les Boucholeurs to La Rochelle, with its arcaded old town. An optional final day offers a loop of the Île de Ré, taking in La Flotte and Saint-Martin-de-Ré, oyster beds and salt marshes.

Accommodation is in 3-star hotels throughout, with the route combining river greenway, vineyard back roads and Atlantic coastline.

Highlights

• Charente riverside cycle paths through Cognac vineyard country
• Cognac town and the option to visit a historic cognac house
• Gallo-Roman amphitheatre in Saintes
• Rochefort's Corderie Royale and transporter bridge
• Coastal ride via Châtelaillon and Les Boucholeurs to La Rochelle
• Optional Île de Ré loop, including La Flotte and Saint-Martin

Surface and terrain:
Mostly flat riverside cycle paths and back roads, with one hillier day (Saintes to Rochefort). No major climbs.

Suitable for:
Riders wanting a relaxed, self-guided ride combining river, vineyard and coastal scenery.

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