The Canal des 2 mers by bike – linking the Atlantic with the Mediterranean
750 kms of water-side cycle paths, firstly along the Gironde estuary, then the Canal de la Garonne and finally the famous Canal du Midi.
Charentes – a spectacular starting point
Cycling the Canal des 2 Mers in Charente-Maritime is a great way to undertake this nationally renowned route. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Europe’s largest estuary! The story begins where the waters of the Gironde River and the Atlantic Ocean meet. The estuary is a place where countryside and seaside come together and where calm reigns supreme.
Every corner and every bend throw up new and ever-more beautiful perspectives upon this wild and wonderfully unspoilt natural habitat.
The Charente section: from Royan
Make the most of the town of Royan before saddling up! Travel back in time to the 50s with a tour of the local architectural highlights. Visit the phare de Cordouan, the oldest active lighthouse in France (some people say there’s nothing quite like it anywhere on the planet!), or just sunbathe on one of the many local beaches! In any case, you’ll definitely have to take a dip, because your next chance won’t be for another 750 km!
Everyone likes to get off to a good start, so it’s good to know that this trip commences with a well-shaded cycle path running alongside the sea – not a bad beginning! You’ll soon enter the forest of Suzac, a kind of transitional zone between the oceanic and riverine environments.
Then you’ll need to change down the gears to tackle hillier country and even get to the top of some limestone cliffs. Erosive forces have also led to caves being formed in this area – the most famous of which are at Meschers-sur-Gironde – an absolutely amazing sight!
Vitrezay, 70 km of unspoilt scenery!
The route continues through Talmont-sur-Gironde, a short distance away. It’s easy to see why this medieval town, perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Gironde estuary, is a member of the Plus Beaux Villages de France (most beautiful villages in France) association. Don’t forget to take a selfie at the cliffs of the falaise de Caillaud, with its picture-perfect backdrop.
Cliffs give way to a softer, more rolling landscape, covered in vines and arable crops. Lower-lying areas feature marshland and harbours.
The route continues to Vitrezay and the local nature reserve (Pôle Nature), where you’ll discover an array of activities aimed at unlocking the secrets of the estuary and the surrounding countryside, not to mention showcasing the stunning scenery of the Charente-Maritime.
Enjoy your journey by bike along the canal des 2 mers