How to reach Lake Vassivière by train?

1. Find the nearest train station

The closest train station to Lake Vassivière is Eymoutiers/Vassivière. From this station, it takes approximately 48 minutes by bike to reach the starting point in Royère-de-Vassivière.
You can view train stations near the routes by selecting the “Train Station” icon in the “ⓘ” section here : 

https://en.lavelideale.com/cycle-route 

2. Plan your journey with Tictactrip

To get route suggestions tailored to your trip, use the Tictactrip tool available at the bottom.
Enter your departure point (Vassivière or Saint-Nazaire), your destination city, and your travel dates.
The tool will offer train itineraries, taking into account connections and different modes of transport.

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3. Manage your connections

The train journey from Vassivière is not direct and requires several connections.
You’ll need to take multiple trains (TGV and TER) and therefore make multiple reservations.

Example of a possible route :

• Eymoutiers/Vassivière → Limoges (TER)
• Limoges → Orléans or Les Aubrais (TGV or INTERCITÉS)
• Orléans or Les Aubrais → your departure city (TER or TGV)

4. Book your tickets and a bike space

When booking your train tickets on the SNCF website, make sure to include your bike:

• Tick the "Add a bike" option during booking.
• Check that bike spaces are still available — otherwise, your bike may be refused if not disassembled.

If your journey includes different types of trains (e.g., TGV and TER), it is recommended to book each segment separately, as the reservation procedures may vary.

Types of trains with bike space booking options

Trains with mandatory and paid reservation :

• TGV INOUI : Mandatory reservation (€10 per journey). Limited spaces must be booked when purchasing your ticket. Some models (e.g., double-decker TGVs) do not have bike spaces.
• INTERCITÉS : Mandatory reservation (starting at €5 depending on the line). A seat is assigned near the bike space.

Trains with reservation required depending on the route :

• (Varies depending on specific lines – check details when booking.)

Trains with no mandatory reservation :

• TER (regional trains, with some exceptions) : Free bike transport, no reservation needed, subject to availability.
• OUIGO : Non-folded bikes require a paid reservation on certain lines; otherwise, bikes must be disassembled and placed in a carrying bag.

⚠️ Restrictions: Tandems, trailers, and recumbent bikes are not allowed on most trains.

5. Travel planning summary

• Use the Tictactrip tool to find travel options and connection details.
• Book each segment of your trip on the SNCF website, making sure to reserve a space for your bike.
• Check availability of bike spaces and ⚠️ plan ahead for train changes.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to plan your journey efficiently and reach La Vélidéale with ease !