From Saumur to Niort

At Saumur, the route heads south once again, following the Le Thouet à Vélo cycle route. The Thouet River serves as your guide up to the town of Parthenay. Along the way, discover another river-trading valley dotted with fortified settlements. The rich Thouet heritage includes old castles, churches, bridges and mills, as well as an underground fountain… plus the climate is more clement as you head south and the pace of life becomes gentler.