Just two hours south of Paris, and on the left and right banks of the Loire des îles, a gourmet and energetic adventure awaits visitors in search of a two-wheeled journey of discovery.

What better place to start the trip than the Coteaux du Giennois wine region? Setting off from the Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire tourist office, the vineyards of Pouilly meet alongside the Loire river. Along the way you’ll have to climb the famous hill- whitout to many efforts - to reach the winemaking village of Les Loges, an essential stop for any visitor.

Further on, La Tour du Pouilly-Fumé is another highlight of the trip. Those eager to discover more about wine will learn how to taste the local white wines like a pro before climbing the steps of the Belvédère de Saint-Andelain to admire the vines that stretch as far as the eye can see.

At this point, keen cyclists will seize the chance to leave the signposted loop to reach Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire via the La Loire à Vélo cycle route and the Piton Sancerrois, where a new 42 kilometre loop, also signposted, awaits. Supporting material can be picked up from the Cosne-Cours-sur-Loire tourist office. For a less taxing trip, it also provides electric bike rental, as does the Pavillon du Milieu de Loire in Pouilly-sur-Loire, and Cycles Sancerrois in Saint-Satur, not far from Sancerre.

From July to September the area’s flagship summer event, It’s Wine Time, offers entertainment and wine tasting three evenings a week in the three appellations of Sancerre, Pouilly Fumé and Coteaux du Giennois. On Thursday take a trip to the Loire’s beaches, on Friday it’s time to visit a site laden with history and on Saturday, stroll through the vines and explore the delightful winemaking villages to learn more about the region’s terroirs and grape varieties, and the local approach to tending the vines.

A trip to Sancerre, Pouilly and Giennois guarantees relaxation and fun, whether you visit as a couple, family or with friends. And to take advantage of special offers on all activities why not pick up the Wine Pass, available at the Tour du Pouilly-Fumé, the Maison des Sancerre and in tourist offices located in each of the three appellations!