On your bike ride between La Tranche-sur-Mer and L'Aiguillon-La-Presqu'île, the La Belle-Henriette lagoon is a unique place, separated from the sea by a narrow strip of sand. Then, La Faute-sur-Mer, which stretches towards the Pointe d'Arçay, will delight you. Next, head to Saint-Michel-en-l'Herm via the Marais desséché (dry marsh). Between Vendée and Charente-Maritime, this stage of the Vélodyssée cycle route takes you to the so-called "dried" section of the Marais Poitevin. Cycle through vast expanses of marshland and farmland dotted with farms and cabins until you reach Marans, a pleasant riverside town bordered by the Sèvre Niortaise River. Be curious and explore the marina, the historic center, and the church with its futuristic bell tower, all of this town that lives to the rhythm of the water.
Gradients and elevation
Slope breakdown
Road types
- Cycle path
- Routes reserved for cyclists and pedestrians (greenways, cycle tracks, towpaths), separated from cars for maximum safety.
- Shared road
- Quiet minor roads with little traffic (unless otherwise stated in the stage details). Shared with cars (stay alert).
- Not specified
- Data unavailable or being assessed. Please refer to the detailed stage description.
- Provisional
- Section on a road or cycle path awaiting better-quality facilities (see stage details).
Surface
- Smooth
- Asphalt, tarmac or smooth concrete. Optimal comfort.
- Rough
- Fine gravel, compacted stabilised surface or worn tarmac. Less comfortable, vibrations possible.
- Natural
- Dirt, grass, roots or stones. Under 5%: short sections with little impact. Higher percentage: route suited to mountain or gravel bikes only.
- Not specified
- Data unavailable or being assessed. Please refer to the detailed stage description.
Itinerary
Mainly on small roads with sections on designated cycle lanes. An easy section.
Warning: Remain vigilant when crossing La Tranche-sur-Mer and La Faute-sur-Mer: there are few signs.
