La Pente et Côte - VTT Raid

A sporting raid in the heart of the Bourgueil vineyards

La Pente et Côte has become one of the unmissable VTT and gravel events in the Centre-Val de Loire region. Organized by the association Sport Nature Bourgueillois, this event takes place in the land of the famous Bourgueil vineyards, in the heart of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, between Tours and Saumur, near Chinon. The exceptional natural setting — Bourgueil forest, vineyard slopes, Loire riverbanks, and castles — makes each outing a unique experience.

Routes for all levels

The event offers a complete sporting program adapted to all types of participants. For VTT, five routes are available: a 25 km family circuit, followed by distances of 40, 60, 80, and 100 km for the more ambitious. The gravel section offers five routes ranging from 64 to 157 km, allowing exploration of the paths and small roads along the Loire. Three hiking routes of 8, 15, and 25 km complete the offering for walkers. The routes primarily use the Bourgueil forest and vineyards, with numerous single trails and very little paved sections.

The Trail des Grands 20 as an opener

The sporting weekend begins on Saturday morning with the Trail des Grands 20, a running race offering distances from 9 to 42 km through the forests and vineyards of Bourgueil. A non-timed Nordic walking event is also offered, further broadening the audience for this day dedicated to outdoor sports.

Verte Tout-Terrain Label and nature spirit

La Pente et Côte has obtained the "Verte Tout-Terrain 2022" label awarded by the French Cycling Federation (FFC), recognizing its commitment to environmentally friendly sports practice. The event was also selected by the Departmental Council of Indre-et-Loire to be part of the Touraine Outdoor Challenge. Registrations include refreshments on the routes, a fouée (local bread) and a drink at the finish, as well as a bottle of Bourgueil wine for participants in the 80 and 100 km raids — a nod to the local terroir.