3 ferries and a bridge

In planning the approximate route,  a lot of good advice from others has been read.  These are other cyclists who have ridden the same route previously and who've advocated the use of certain ferries to avoid hassle.

After we've landed in Santander on our first day, just after noon, it's likely that we'll take a ferry across the harbour to Pedrena and so cut out the heavy Santander traffic that many people have warned about.  This will set us on our way towards Santona and a modest first day's cycle.  Ferry times and fares are on the internet at http://www.losreginas.com/i/servicio.htm

Santander-Pedrena ferry

On day 2, there's a short ferry crossing between Santona and Laredo which will kickstart the next leg and save an unnecessary circumnavigation of the estuary between the two towns - about 5 km.

Again, the internet reveals fares and costs at http://www.excursionesmaritimas.com/

Santona-Laredo ferry

Thereafter, the next proposed ferry crossing (below) is in France, between Le Verdon-sur-Mer and Royan.  This allows busy Bordeaux to be by-passed and allows the route to stay predominantly coastal.  Information on schedules and fares can be found at http://www.bernezac.com/passages_eau_royan_verdon.htm

Le Verdon-sur-Mer - Royan ferry

After Royan, the next major river crossing is the Loire near St Nazaire.  There has been a great deal of discussion in forums about the wisdom of cycling across the 3.5km long, 3 lane bridge.  Some say it's too busy and too dangerous, especially in windy conditions.  The alternative is a significant detour east to a ferry crossing at Le Pellerin or taking the no.17 bus across the bridge, which travels only at limited times each day and means having to book a day in advance.

There's no doubt that the bridge crossing is spectacular - it leaves an indelible impression from having driven over it many years earlier.

Most of the opinions read were given before modifications took place in 2010.  Prior to 2010, the cycle lane was 500mm wide and the speed limit was 90km/hr.  In 2010, the bike lane became 1.25m wide and the speed limit was reduced to 70km/hr.  There is still no physical barrier between cycles and road vehicles however.

Whether or not to cross the St Nazaire bridge is worthy of more detailed consideration nearer the time.  Perhaps, we should see what the weather is like and how we feel before deciding.