![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/france/poitou-charentes/26965792310/belvedere-1.webp)
Gravel Route 2: Abbey and Charente River
A gravel cycling route starting from Saintes
Explore ancient abbeys and enjoy scenic views along the Charente River
Map
![Map miniature of "Gravel Route 2: Abbey and Charente River" cycling inspiration in Poitou-Charentes, France. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/france/poitou-charentes/saintes/gravel/208569.webp)
Embark on a gravel adventure that combines history and natural beauty. This route takes you to the Abbey of Fontdouce, a beautifully preserved medieval abbey surrounded by serene landscapes. You'll also pass through Dompierre-sur-Charente, a charming village located by the river. Chaniers awaits you with its picturesque waterfront and lively atmosphere. Belvédère offers another scenic viewpoint, providing a perfect spot for a short break.
gravel
51 km
360 m
Tough
Route profile
Highlights on the route
0 km
0 km
Start: Saintes City centerSaintes: Immerse yourself in nature and history while cycling in Saintes
Saintes, located in the Poitou-Charentes region of France, offers a pleasant cycling experience for road and gravel cyclists. The locality features picturesque landscapes, including vineyards, rivers, and charming countryside, making it an ideal destination for cyclists seeking scenic rides. Cyclists can explore the Saintonge region, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful historic towns. Nearby, the charming island of Île d'Oléron attracts many cyclists with its stunning coastal routes and relaxed atmosphere. With its combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Saintes is a fantastic choice for cyclists looking for a diverse and rewarding cycling experience.0 km
0 km
SaintesTownSaintes, an ancient city with Roman heritage and impressive architecture
18 km
18 km
Abbaye de FontdouceAttractionAbbey of Fontdouce, a well-preserved medieval abbey surrounded by peaceful countryside
37 km
37 km
Dompierre-sur-CharenteVillageDompierre-sur-Charente, a charming village located by the banks of the Charente River
44 km
44 km
ChaniersVillageChaniers, a picturesque village known for its beautiful waterfront
51 km
51 km
BelvédèreViewpointBelvédère, a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscapes
51 km
51 km
Finish: Saintes City centerSaintes: Immerse yourself in nature and history while cycling in Saintes
Cycling routes from Saintes:
Saintes-Belvédère Gravel Route 2: Abbey and Charente River Saintes-Écurat-Archingeay Saintes Gravel Adventure Saintes-Écurat-Crazannes Bussac-sur-Charente Adventure Gravel Route 1: Saintes Loop Road Route 1: Scenic Countryside and Historic Villages Gravel Route 4: Countryside Views and Roman Arenas Gravel Route 3: Medieval Castles and Scenic Landscapes
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Les Gonds](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/les-gonds-5.webp)
![Image of Fontcouverte](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/fontcouverte-5.webp)
![Image of Saint-Georges-des-Coteaux](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/saint-georges-des-coteaux-5.webp)
![Image of Chaniers](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/chaniers-3.webp)
![Image of Saint-Savinien](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/saint-savinien-2.webp)
![Image of Pons](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/pons-4.webp)
![Image of Gémozac](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/gemozac-4.webp)
![Image of Pont-l'Abbé-d'Arnoult](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/pont-l-abbe-d-arnoult-5.webp)
![Image of Cherves-Richemont](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/poitou-charentes/cherves-richemont-5.webp)