Self Guided Cycling in the Loire Valley of France

Visit numerous magnificent chateaux
Relaxed cycling along quiet country lanes
Excellent local food and wine

The Loire is the longest river in France, rising in the Massif Central and flowing over 1000km to the Atlantic Ocean. Along its lower reaches, the hunting grounds and lodges of kings and noblemen have grown into extraordinarily ornate chateaux. You will be transported into a fairytale land as soon as you arrive in this magical valley.

Our starting point, the castle of Amboise overlooking the Loire river prepares us for the glorious architecture to come and also the beauty of this special area. From Amboise our ride will take in the famous Chateau of Chenonceau, built over the river Cher and the Chateau of Chambord. Both are architectural masterpieces, with perfectly coiffeured gardens and will transport you back in time.

Our ride will guide us back to Amboise giving us time to visit the Clos Luce, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci. The Loire Valley offers us ideal relaxed cycling through quiet country lanes meandering back and forth from the Loire river.

There is so much to see of interest that our cycling distances are short giving us ample opportunity to enjoy the magnificent chateaux, picnic in the picturesque countryside or enjoy a wine tasting in one of the world class vineyards, which thrive on the fertile soil around the river and its tributaries.

Please note there is also a weekend version of this trip also available - see Loire Cycling Weekend (LSW)

Michelin Guide Listing

Michelin Guide writes: Cycling The Loire Valley (Feb 2011)

What makes this trip responsible?

Cycling is a fantastic way to travel while minimising your impact on the environment. Pedalling under your own steam we help the economy of the small villages and communities that we pass through and we use a local operator who employs local staff and uses small, family run hotels.

Take the Train

Here at Exodus we feel the need to offer our clients an alternative to air travel within Europe and to destinations where taking the train can be a viable alternative to flying.

Working in cooperation with Rail Europe, our sales team will be happy to reserve your seats and tickets can be booked 3 months prior right up until the day of departure, subject to availability. Suggested train times and further information can be found within the Trip Notes.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: France

Day 1

Start Amboise.

Day 2

Ride to the riverside town of Montrichard. Visit the famous Chateau of Chenonceau on the River Cher.

Day 3

Cycle through quiet villages of the Sologne to Bracieux, with optional stops at the Chateau of Fougères, and Cheverny.

Day 4

Today is free to relax in the village or cycle through the forests to the Chateau de Chambord - famous for its extraordinary collection of turrets and its double spiral staircase.

Day 5

Riverbank ride following the lazy Loire to Chaumont-sur-Loire.

Day 6

Today is free to visit the chateau in town standing high above the river, cycle along the riverbank to the mediaeval city of Blois or explore the villages to the south on optional rides.

Day 7

Final day cycling across open, rolling countryside to Amboise. There is time to visit the Clos Luce, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci.

Day 8

End Amboise.

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