Chateau du Loir - Bessé sur Braye Green Route

Cycling in the Sarthe region, in the heart of the Loir Valley.

The greenway linking Montval-sur-Loir (Château du Loir) to Bessé-sur-Braye stretches for 33 km, offering a safe and easy route, ideal for a family outing on foot, by bike or e-bike. Built on a former railway line, it crosses varied landscapes, running alongside the Loir River and its hillsides, with many sites to discover.

From Montval-sur-Loir, the Montabon Railway Roundhouse will delight industrial heritage enthusiasts. Continuing along the route, the Lac des Varennes in Marçon offers swimming and water sports, perfect for a refreshing break. A stop in La Chartre-sur-le-Loir is a must to discover its renowned antique markets and charming narrow streets.

Ruillé-sur-Loir, at the foot of the greenway, offers the opportunity to visit the Domaine Lelais and taste the wines of the Loir Valley. Further along, in Poncé-sur-le-Loir, the Moulins de Paillard house a contemporary art center, while the village itself is notable for its Romanesque church adorned with frescoes and the gardens of the Château de Poncé. Nearby, the art glassworks welcomes visitors eager to witness the art of glassmaking.

The arrival in Bessé-sur-Braye is a beautiful one, with the Château de Courtanvaux, a jewel of local heritage. Along the way, picnic areas and campsites (Marçon, La Chartre-sur-le-Loir, Bessé-sur-Braye) allow you to fully enjoy the walk.

This greenway is part of the "Vallée du Loir à vélo" network and offers connections to other cycling routes, making longer trips easier. Before setting off, it's advisable to consult the map of the greenway from Montval-sur-Loir to Bessé-sur-Braye to best plan your journey.