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Plan your trip ahead

During a first experience:

For your first bike trip, start with shorter stages, with daily distances between 30 and 40 km. This will allow you to take the time to discover the landscapes, the local heritage and the activities along the way. Plan a pace of 10 km/h for the first few days.

Anticipate the reservation of accommodation:

During the summer season, for some spring long weekends or when parts of the route do not have a large offer, it is advisable to book accommodation in advance. You can consult the accommodation along the Indre à Vélo here.

Orientation on the course

The GPX track:

To help you find your way more easily, you can download the GPX track of the route directly ici or on the home page via the "Download the itinerary" button.

Signage :

The route is fully marked in both directions between Bréhémont (Indre-et-Loire 37) and Chambon-sur-Voueize (Creuse 23) for more comfort and safety. The signs are green and recognizable with the Indre à Vélo logo.

The road book:

He will guide you during your trip while telling you the stories that are part of the heritage present along the route. The road book is available free of charge at the Tourist Offices near Indre à Vélo and in some accommodations.

You can consult the roadmap here.

Choose your equipment well

The bike :

  • For a trip lasting several days, it is better to opt for a well-equipped all-terrain bike (VTC): comfortable saddle, lighting, luggage rack and several gears;
  • Check that it is in good condition or have it repaired by a professional cyclist. Adjust it to your height, inflate the tyres, check the brakes, think about the sound signal...
  • Prefer saddlebags to backpacks, it can be tiring in the long run;
  • Bring a small repair kit: puncture material and 2 inner tubes per bike, multi-tool, pump and connector adapted to your valves;
  • Don't forget the lock for the stops.

Equipment :

  • Comfortable and appropriate clothing, warm for the evening. Cap or hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Windbreaker and rain gear if necessary;
  • For long journeys, we advise you to bring cycling shorts, gloves and shoes;
  • Wearing a helmet is not compulsory (except for children under 12), but strongly recommended;
  • Bring water and energy bars to avoid fatigue;
  • Think of the first aid kit;
  • Think of the road book to download here or to pick up at the Tourist Office.

In short

  1. Prepare your itinerary in advance and plan regular breaks to rest and hydrate.
  2. Make sure you are in good physical condition before you go.
  3. Pack sufficient provisions for the trip, such as water, food, medicine, etc.
  4. Make sure you have a well-maintained bike in good condition, with inflated tires, working brakes, a lubricated transmission and lights.
  5. Wear proper safety clothing and equipment.
  6. Be prepared for emergency situations by carrying a repair kit for the bike and a charged mobile phone.
  7. Take time to relax and enjoy your trip, visiting villages and sights.
  8. Don't forget to protect yourself against the sun, by putting on sunscreen and wearing a helmet, hat or cap.
  9. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, keeping a reasonable distance from cars and respecting the rules of the road.
  10. Finally, be respectful of the environment and local communities by leaving no waste behind.

Happy cycling!