I want to cross rivers or visit the Atlantic islands
Visiting islands and crossing rivers on La Vélodyssée
While there are hidden treasures to explore all the way along La Vélodyssée, travellers must surely feel an irresistible pull to the ten or so islands dotted along the coast. Various rivers and canals will also sweep you along with their current, guiding you through the surrounding countryside to your next destination.
So, do you fancy an escapade to the Atlantic islands? Do you want to cross the rivers along La Vélodyssée with your bike? ‘How To’ guide:
Crossing the Saint-Nazaire bridge
It is not recommended to cycle across the Saint-Nazaire bridge. Unfortunately, it isn’t really suitable for cyclists and can present an obstacle on a bike trip!
Three options for travelling from Saint-Brevin-Les-Pins to Saint-Nazaire (or vice versa):
- Aléop bus – number 317: Throughout the year, this bus runs daily between Saint-Brevin town centre and Saint-Nazaire railway station. The buses are equipped to carry up to eight bikes per journey, so that cyclists can cross the bridge safely. You are strongly advised to book your place the day before at the latest: +339 69 39 14 14.
Learn more about Aléop buses and transporting bikes - Taxi + Bike: Taxis in Saint-Brevin (+332 40 27 23 07) are fitted with ‘standard’ bicycle racks.
Learn more about taxis in Saint-Brevin - Du Vent dans les Rayons : This private transport company offers made-to-measure transport for all types of bikes and trailers. Maximum capacity 8 people. Further information: +336 72 46 42 80.
More informations on this service - Azimut VTC - Stéphane Blanc : This service offers transport for 2 bikes and 3 people on the Saint-Nazaire bridge. For more information: 06 40 06 40 30 / azimut.vtc@gmail.com // New service - website under development
Reaching the islands
Île de Batz
Île de Batz is a well-preserved gem of an island in North Finistère. Every day, there are regular 15-minute crossings to Île de Batz from the old port of Roscoff. For an extra €9, you can take your bike with you on the boat. EAPCs, tandems and trailers are also allowed.
Learn more about routes, fares and times
Île de Noirmoutier
Located in the north of the Vendée, Île de Noirmoutier is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the island boasts everything from forests and sandy beaches to polders and salt marshes, feel free to consult us for inspiration before you go!
- Travelling to the island by the bridge:
The Noirmoutier island bridge, which links Barbâtre to the mainland via Fromentine (La Barre des Monts), is open to the public free of charge, 24/7. It’s worth noting that there is a cycle path on the bridge. - Travelling to the island by the Passage du Gois:
The Passage du Gois is not recommended for cyclists. It may be difficult and dangerous. The Passage du Gois is a submersible causeway stretching over 4 km in length from Barbâtre to Beauvoir-sur-Mer. It is only passable at low tide. If you decide to take this route, don’t forget to consult the tidal schedule first. The Passage du Gois is accessible for 1.5 hours before and after low tide.
Île d'Yeu
Île d’Yeu is 17 kilometres from the mainland (≈30/45 minutes). Two companies operate services to and from the island, but only Yeu Continent accepts bikes.
Learn more about routes, fares and times
Île de Ré
The easiest way to get to Île de Ré is over the bridge. It is completely safe for bikes, thanks to a cycling lane that is separated from the traffic by a wide concrete wall. In July and August, you can also travel to Sablanceaux-Plage on the eastern tip of the island in a bus kitted out exclusively for bikes ! Departure from Place de Verdun in La Rochelle.
Looking for inspiration? Here are a few ideas for bike rides on the island.
Île d'Aix
This is the only completely traffic-free island in Charente-Maritime! So, the only way to get there is by boat. The Île d’Aix maritime service runs ferry boats between Fouras and Île d’Aix 365 days a year, come rain or shine. Bikes are allowed on board.
Learn more about routes, fares and times
Île Madame
This tiny island of 0.78 km² is accessible only by a submersible causeway at low tide. So don’t forget to consult the tidal schedule before crossing!
Île d'Oléron
It is best to cross by boat, which is safer than the road. The ferry boat takes pedestrians and cyclists across to the island from July to early September. From La Vélodyssée, the most practical route is from La Tremblade (on the mainland) to St-Trojan-les-Bains (on the island).
Learn more about the ferry boat
Now you know everything! Now all you have to do is hop on your bike and head for the sea air of La Vélodyssée. Have a great trip!