Road Tripping from Bonneville to Pornic: Scenic Routes and Pit Stops

So you've decided to drive from Bonneville, located in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, to the charming coastal town of Pornic in Pays de la Loire. The route is just over 500 km and promises breathtaking views of mountains, vineyards, and coastline. But with so many options to choose from, which route should you take? And how long will it take to get there? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

The Direct Route: A Speedy Drive

If speed is of the essence, then the most straightforward route is to head north via the A43 highway and then take the A85 towards Tours, before joining the N249 to Pornic. This route covers a distance of approximately 546 km, and without traffic, the drive will take around 6 hours. However, this route lacks the picturesque views of the French countryside, and you may miss out on some excellent spots for a coffee break.

The Scenic Detour: A Drive for the Senses

If you're looking for a more scenic drive, we recommend taking the route that passes through the Department of Allier and the small town of Moulins. This drive takes you through rolling green hills and charming French villages. Take the D207A route heading towards Digoin and then continue on to Roanne before taking the A89 towards Nantes. From there, join the N165 and follow the signs to Pornic. This distance covers approximately 606 km, and the drive will take about 7 hours. Along the way, there are plenty of places to stop for refreshments, including the historic town of Roanne, famous for its gastronomy.

The Coastal Route: Embrace the Sea Breeze

For travelers who want to take in the stunning coastline of western France, we recommend the coastal route. Heading south via the A43, take the A7 along the Rhône River before joining the A54 towards Arles, where you'll turn onto the A9 heading towards Montpellier. Join the A61 and then take the A62 before finally turning onto the A83, which will bring you to Pornic. This route covers approximately 700 km, and the drive will take approximately 8 hours. But with stunning views of the Mediterranean sea, beautiful beaches, and charming coastal towns along the way, the drive is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Recommended pit stops along the way

No road trip is complete without some great pit stops, and there are plenty of options along the drive from Bonneville to Pornic. Moulins is a charming town worth exploring, especially for those who love art and architecture. The town is known for its historic watermills and the Centre National du Costume de Scène - a museum showcasing the costumes of French theatre productions. Other pit stops along the way include the towns of Roanne, Saint-Étienne, Montpellier, and Nîmes.

Conclusion

There you have it, some great options for your journey from Bonneville to Pornic. Whether you're looking for speed, scenery or coastal vistas, we're sure you'll find a route to suit your preferences. But remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so take your time, enjoy the scenery, and don't forget to stop and smell the roses (or the croissants). Happy road tripping!