The Spine Ride 2025 – Happy 10th Anniversary!
Photo by Karl Paul Baldacchino on Unsplash
This year marks the 10th anniversary of our riding exploits, and what a treat we have in store. For obvious reasons, many of our trips have centred around France and Germany; they are easily accessible for all, big countries with a lot to see, and relatively close, so we can keep the costs more reasonable. Last year, we rode through five countries on our journey from Belgium to Switzerland.
This year, our wheels are planted firmly in the heart of France as we pedal south from Paris to the river and make our way along the Loire Valley to the Atlantic Coast, approximately 600 km.
Day 0
We gather at Orly on June 11th, ready for the flattest course we have cycled in several years.
Day 1: Orly to Sigloy (75 miles/120 km, Some Hills)
The first and only day that we travel uphill a little as we meander through forests and national parks with the occasional sleepy French town and village en route.
Day 2: Sigloy to Blois (59 miles/95 km, Flat)
A short day to allow us to savour the beauty of Blois. Stunning architecture crowned by the Royal Chateau, which played host to numerous Kings and Queens of France. It is also the site where the Archbishop of Reims blessed Joan of Arc before the historic battle of Orleans.
Day 3: Blois to Chinon (73 miles/117 km, Flat)
Following the river for most of the day, passing through the “White City”—Tours (always looks that way to me from the motorway). Towards the end of our day, we head a little more southward and sandwich ourselves between The Loire and the river Vienne.
Day 4: Chinon to Mesanger (80 miles/135 km, Flat)
A longer ride, but the gentle downhill terrain will make the day pass quickly and easily. Arriving in late afternoon will give time to explore the ancient town with its castle standing for over a thousand years. This little town is rich in history and will be exciting to explore.
Day 5: Mesanger to St Nazaire (60 miles/100 km, Flat)
Our final day and coastal bound! Through Nantes, we wind our way to the mouth of the river where a lovely beach awaits. Trunks, or costumes on, and a well-earned dip in the sea is called for. Of course, the weather will be stunningly warm—it’s June, what else would you expect?
The European Spine Ride is an annual charity event open to all. If you are interested in joining and would like further details, send an email to Adam.
You can follow World Spine Care on Facebook and Instagram to get updates during the ride.
Support our ambitious riders and donate to World Spine Care Europe today.
Details of the charity and our work can be found at worldspinecare.org/europe.
