Self Guided Cycling in the Loire Valley of France

A relaxed week of self-guided cycling amidst the beautiful scenery, chateaux and vineyards of the Loire Valley

The Chateau of Chenonceaux on the River Cher

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. In addition to these fine buildings, the Loire Valley is famous for its wine, with flourishing vineyards set amidst the leafy forests, green valleys and charming villages - ideal for undemanding cycling.

Vineyards thrive on the fertile soil around the river and its tributaries, and many producers are well-prepared to receive visitors and are more than happy for them to try a glass or two. The historic market town of Amboise, nestled under its fortified chateau, makes a perfect starting point from where we wend our way between the Loire and Cher rivers, visiting some of the prettiest chateaux along the way.

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 (accessible by train from London, see dates and prices box).

Day 2

Ride to riverside town of Montrichard. Visit the famous Chateau of Chenonceau on the River Cher: its moat is part of the actual river and its arches reach across to the far bank.

Day 3

Cycle through quiet villages of the Sologne to Bracieux, with optional stops at the Chateau of Fougeres, and the grander 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, passing a 16th century castle and the pretty village of Les Montils.

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

The final day in the saddle cycling across open, rolling countryside to Amboise. There is time to visit the Clos Luce, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci, and the castle itself in this pretty riverside town.

Day 8

End Amboise.

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Trip Notes contain all the detailed information you need. A full day by day itinerary, accommodation details, guides and other practical information. Download Now

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