south

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:

Reaching the islands ;
River crossings ;

Add to a roadbook

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):

- Minibus shuttle + Bike: During the summer season, a free shuttle service provides a safe crossing between Saint-Brevin-les-Pins and Saint-Nazaire. This free service will run from 1st July to 1st September. Booking is not necessary (subject to availability). The shuttle runs every hour between 9am and 12.30pm and 2.30pm and 7pm. Between 15th July and 18th August, the shuttle will run every 30 minutes at the same time, due to the high number of passengers during this period. In Saint-Nazaire, the ferry will run from Boulevard des Apprentis, near Rue de la Loire. In Saint-Brevin, it will depart from Place Bougainville.
Learn more about the free ferry service

- 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: +332 40 21 50 87.
Learn more about Aléop buses and transporting bikes

If you encounter any issues with the above telephone number, you can fill in the following contact form.
Follow this process : Click on ‘Car’ then select ‘Loire Atlantique’. For the "Code postal" mention "44600" and for the city, "SAINT-NAZAIRE" and write your request. If you wish to be called, please enter your contact details on the form (the form is in French but you can fill in your request in English)

- 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

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.

Elise, the blogger behind Mimie Boutique, has written a detailed article on access to the islands, as well as unusual crossings such as the Pont Transbordeur and the Passage du Gois.

Read the article

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!

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