Saumur to Camping Mignardiere

The morning's ride from Saumur covered everything from smooth as glass bitumen to rough dirt & gravel with some short but steep - think 25%- climbs through charming stone villages and onto bridge crossings. After the Loire À Velo sign turned us abruptly right into what can only be described as a wall, we resolved to be choosy about which signs to obey. We continuously pass turreted small villas and castles.
First coffee today was in Avoine- a very busy little hub.
After a long stretch of beautifully sealed, but sunny, road on a levee we grabbed a baguette & éclair at Brehemont. The rest of the way to Villandry included sweeping views of the Loire and 600 or 700 metres of pavé that wasn't so lovely.
The gardens at Villandry are worth a look - restored to their original 16th century format, they are remarkably beautiful. A great spot for a siesta.
A further 14km and we pulled into Camping Mignardiere at Balin Miré. Currently enjoying the pool!Read more