This Collection explores a route through the south of the Aunis, a beautiful natural region in the department of Charente-Maritime on France’s west coast. Aunis is bordered by the Charente to the south and, to the east, by a vertical line running between the communes of Saint-Crépin and Marsais. The region is characterised by expansive marshland criss-crossed by numerous canals that feed the Charente river. This level landscape is ideal for cycling, offering a great mix of relaxation and discovery.

I've divided this 164-kilometre (102 mi) Collection into three Tours. Along the way, you'll come across many points of interest that provide excellent opportunities to stop off and explore. Freewheel along landscaped trails, enjoy the wild expanses of the Rochefort marshes, or learn more about the local history – whatever takes your fancy.

The start is at Rochefort station, which is served daily by regional and inter-regional trains from Nantes, La Rochelle, Saintes and Bordeaux. Many regional trains accommodate bikes, while Intercity trains require you to reserve a bike space in addition to your seat. The station has a free car park.

At the first roundabout, head for Rochefort marina and then the transporter bridge, which is open from April to early November. When the bridge is closed, you’ll need to take the Martrou viaduct, which has a dedicated traffic-free lane for cyclists, and then follow the cycle link to continue on the route. You’ll pass through Rochefort marshes before turning off towards the north bank of the Charente. From here, the Tour continues through a landscape marked by countless canals near the Canal de Genouillé, finishing at Tonnay-Boutone.

The scenery throughout the second Tour is characterised by large cereal plains with far-reaching views. Moving away from the southern tip of the Aunis region, you’ll ride through farmland and cross the Gères at Surgères, a river and spring that feed the Charente downstream. The route finishes with a visit to the Lac de Frace on the outskirts of the town of Aigrefeuille-d'Aunis.

The third Tour is a completely different experience to the previous two. While the start of the route takes you back to the Rochefort marshes and their intriguing maze of canals, travelling along the western edge of the southern Aunis region brings you to the coast at the charming seaside resort of Fouras. Enjoy the panoramic sea views and the charm of the carrelets – traditional fisherman's huts perched on stilts – which are typical of the region.

Throughout this Collection, you'll be riding mainly on quiet secondary roads and non-tarmac surfaces such as compressed stone pavements, so a gravel or mountain bike is a good choice. Whichever bike you ride, make sure you take a puncture repair kit with you.

The towns dotted along the route boast a wide range of shops and services, including restaurants and hotels. If you’re visiting in high season it’s worth booking as early as possible to guarantee a place to stay.