Poitiers
Atlantic Route AT03
Note: More routes and maps may be added to this page as they become available.

These notes are intended to help you choose which areas to head for. Cycling routes close to Bike Express drop off points are available from the CTC. These routes are scenic, following quiet roads and a few include alternative ‘off road’ sections.
A city with a rich historic and artistic heritage, Poitiers lies amidst undulating countryside dissected by many river valleys. To the east and south east the Vienne and Gartempe Valleys are recommended. They offer gentle cycling alongside some parts of the river valleys but undulating and more strenuous cycling otherwise. Further south lies Limousin where low gears are a distinct asset for tours of this beautiful, unspoilt but hilly area!

Some 80 kms to the west (using quiet roads) lies Niort – and just to the west of Niort lie the ‘Poitou Marshes or Fens’. This Parc Naturel Regional consists of a dense network of canals and has been referred to as the Venise Verte’ (Green Venice). A lovely area to explore, many of the waterways are lined with tall trees, cool and shady in the summer! Further west the old port of La Rochelle and the islands of Re, Oleron and Aix are popular with visitors to the area.