The busy market town of Vire has ancient roots, but it was heavily reconstructed after Allied bombing in 1944. Look beyond the present day and you’ll find remains of the 12th century fortifications built by Henry I, ruler of England and Normandy. And do try Vire’s culinary speciality – the Andouille smoked sausage.
Itinerary
You rejoin the greenway which connects Vire to the Bay of Mont St. Michel to the west of Vire on the RD 185a in the direction of Villedieu les Poeles. A secure route up to Sourdeval and onwards. Stopping point at Sourdeval. Take care when crossing the RD 577 to the south of St. Germain de Tallevende (fast moving vehicles).
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.
Not to be missed
Lake Dathée is an ornithological reserve located several kilometres from the Vire, which also offers water sports (sailing, catamaran, kayaking, etc.) as well as an 18-hole golf course.
The Porte Horloge de Vire (gate house), the main entrance to the city, was constructed in the 13th century.
