Eurovelo 6

Vélo Notes

I’m not exactly sure how this Vélo tour came about—perhaps it had been building inside me for some time. A longing to be out there alone, adapting to whatever comes my way. The desire to see the world from a cyclist’s perspective, fully immersed in the present moment. This is just the beginning.

Following the Loire River felt like entering a cyclist’s paradise. The spirit of biking came alive again—the freedom of the open road, the thrill of exploration.

For now, I’m embracing what feels right: riding through the Loire Valley and into Burgundy, a region I return to time and again.

EuroVelo 6, known as the "Rivers Route," is one of Europe’s most scenic cycling trails. Stretching 4,450 kilometers (2,765 miles) from the Atlantic coast of France to the Black Sea in Romania, it weaves through 10 countries, offering a journey rich in culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Highlights of EuroVelo 6:

1. Start and End Points:

   • Start: The route begins in Nantes, France, along the Atlantic Ocean.

   • End: It finishes in Constanța, Romania, on the shores of the Black Sea.

2. Countries: The route passes through France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Bulgaria, and Romania.

3. Rivers: The EuroVelo 6 is known as the Rivers Route because it follows some of Europe’s major rivers, including:

   • The Loire (France)

   • The Rhine (Germany)

   • The Danube (Germany to Romania)

4. Scenic and Cultural Attractions:

   • Loire Valley (France): Renowned for its stunning châteaux and vineyards.

   • Black Forest (Germany): A picturesque region known for its dense forests and charming villages.

   • Vienna (Austria): The historic capital with its imperial architecture and cultural heritage.

   • Budapest (Hungary): Known for its thermal baths, historic sites, and vibrant culture.

   • Danube Delta (Romania): A UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its biodiversity and natural beauty.

5. Route Terrain:

   • The route is mostly flat, especially along the riverbanks, making it accessible to cyclists of various skill levels. However, there are some more challenging sections, particularly in the more mountainous regions like the Black Forest.

6. Cycling Infrastructure:

   • EuroVelo 6 is well-signposted and generally has good cycling infrastructure, especially in Western European countries. Cyclists can find dedicated bike paths, accommodations, and services catering to their needs along the way.

7. Travel Time:

   • The time it takes to complete the route varies depending on the cyclist’s pace and the time spent exploring along the way. Some might complete it in a couple of months, while others may take longer to fully enjoy the sights.

8. Cultural Experience:

   • EuroVelo 6 offers a rich cultural experience, allowing cyclists to immerse themselves in the local traditions, cuisine, and history of each region they pass through.

Whether you’re looking for a short cycling holiday or planning to tackle the entire route, EuroVelo 6 provides a unique opportunity to see Europe from a new perspective.