This stage begins in Alençon. The town is known for its exquisite Point d’Alençon lace. Find out more about the intricate technique used to produce it at the Museum of Fine Arts and Lace, or marvel at the rich architecture of the magnificent basilica before you head out of town on the quiet country roads. On arrival in Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei, listed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France® (a distinction awarded to the country’s most attractive villages), you will feel as if time has stood still. Take a few minutes to stroll around the village, which is also a designated Petite Cité de Caractère® (village with character), a favourite with artists. Then prepare for some more serious cycling as you climb into the Alpes Mancelles to admire the hills and valleys through which the River Sarthe runs. Have a well-deserved break at Domaine du Gasseau to sip a flower cordial in a tranquil setting. Then head off again towards Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, another Petite Cité de Caractère® nestled at the foot of the ancient screes.

At Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, take the time to drink in the beautiful landscapes. If you’re running out of steam, fuel up on the terrace of a “gastrobistro”, where you will find good food and a friendly welcome. Freewheel down to Fresnay-sur-Sarthe, into the mysterious atmosphere of this former walled town with its ruined castle and narrow lanes. Seek out a quiet spot by the River Sarthe, which runs through the town, and dip your feet in the water to cool off before you continue your ride through the countryside. Deserve a treat? Stop off at the Quincaillerie Café in Sougé-le-Ganelon for a coffee and, while you’re there, taste some of the local specialities. With your energy levels restored, head on to Beaumont-sur-Sarthe, a medieval town that will take you back through the centuries. Don’t miss the stunning view of the ruined castle from the Romanesque bridge over the River Sarthe.

The next stage of the route takes you off the beaten track, along quiet roads that criss-cross the countryside. At Neuville-sur-Sarthe, park your bike and wander along the riverbank to admire the idyllic panorama of the water mill. Then it’s back in the saddle and full steam ahead to Le Mans. This Ville d’Art et d’Histoire® (artistic and historical town) is packed with heritage sites to explore. Play hide and seek in the medieval streets of the Cité Plantagenêt, as the old town is known, contemplate the skill and might of the Romans who built the Gallo-Roman city walls, or wonder at the impressive bulk of Saint Julian’s Cathedral. At the end of an active day, cool down with a well-earned rest at a guinguettes riverside café. Order a slice of crunchy bread topped with rillettes, a local speciality similar to pâté. And if you’re in Le Mans between July and September, take an evening stroll to see the stunning Nuit des Chimères, when the façades and walls of the town are lit up.

This stage begins with a gentle ride along the pretty Boulevard Nature, starting from the quay at Le Mans port and following the River Sarthe. At Spay, stop off at Spaycific Zoo for a fun natural history lesson. The unusual mammals and birds will no doubt be the highlight of your children’s day! If your party is a bit older or more into sports, try wakeboarding or water skiing and then relax on the beach. Back on your bike, pedal gently on for a few kilometres until you reach Fillé village. At Île MoulinSart, learn all about milling at the Cyprien Mill, take in the contemporary art exhibition at the Art Centre or refuel with a meal at the Bistrot du Moulin. And, if your legs are still up to it, take to the dance floor at the guinguette!

At La Suze-sur-Sarthe, there’s no forgetting the close connection between the Vélobuissonnière® and our local rivers. Take to the water once again in a canoe or kayak, or on a stand-up paddle board. Or, pile into a pedalo – great family fun! If you’re really brave, try electric surfing on an eFoil and fly above the water! If that all sounds a bit too energetic, simply relax at the water sports centre with an aperitif and a platter of cured sausage. By now, your bike will be beckoning, so hop back on and head for Malicorne-sur-Sarthe, which holds “Ville et Métiers d’Art” (arts and crafts towns) status in recognition of local earthenware expertise. You can admire the work of local artists at the Museum of Earthenware and Ceramics, and children can give their creativity free reign at special workshops. Buy a piece of traditional tableware at Faïencerie Bourg-Joly to use on special occasions, then have lunch in an authentic restaurant overlooking the River Sarthe. Afterwards, it’s on to La Flèche, through the leafy hills of the Loir Valley. And once you run out of energy, bed down for the night in your comfortable accommodation for a well-earned rest. The adventure continues tomorrow!

Don’t leave La Flèche without a visit to the famous zoo. Children can even try their hands at being a keeper for a day – what an experience! La Flèche is recognised as one of Europe’s most beautiful zoos, and is the subject of a popular French TV series. See the stars of the show in the flesh! Then, follow the family-friendly green lane towards Baugé-en-Anjou to be transported back in time to the days of medieval knights. Park your bike at the convenient “bike stop” by the castle. Don’t miss the apothecary’s shop at the Hôtel-Dieu, the old hospital. The shelves of carefully worked jars create a fascinating and evocative atmosphere, even though some of the contents sound a bit grim to us today! Wander around the old part of the town and enjoy a relaxing evening in this Petite Cité de Caractère® with its typical Angevin charm.

The last stage of the Vélobuissonnière®, heading to Saumur, is something special. Start with a ride through the Loire-Authion Valley, known for its horticulture. On the way, the green lane between Baugé and Cuon offers a great view of the unusual twisted bell tower at Vieil-Baugé Church. Stop off at Longué-Jumelles and visit the restored Hydronef Mill, with its modern, fun museum where you can learn all about the history of the site. Then, pedal on to Vivy and Les Monteaux Lake, which makes the perfect picnic spot. Sit peacefully and observe the local flora and fauna. The finish line of your trip is in Saumur, a Ville d’Art et d’Histoire®. A visit to Saumur Château is highly recommended. Set dramatically above the River Loire, it’s a classic fairy-tale castle. Another popular place to tour is the Cadre Noir, where French-style horse riding is taught and elevated to an art during breathtaking displays. The troglodyte houses carved into the tuffeau stone cliffs are also fascinating, with their unique network of underground tunnels. Round off this final day with some delicious local specialities, such as the famous fouée (a type of filled bread roll) or galipettes (stuffed mushrooms) washed down with a glass of something bubbly. To make your last night really special, book into a toue cabanée boat moored on the Loire and look back over the highlights of your Vélobuissonnière® adventure!