Cycling the chateaux of the Loire

Relaxed cycling through one of the most beautiful regions of France
Visit numerous magnificent chateaux
Savour the wonderful food and wine that this area is famous for

This is a wonderfully relaxed ride through a most quintessentially French corner of this beautiful country.

The Loire Valley conjures up images of architectural masterpieces, beautiful rolling countryside, world renowned vineyards, and picturesque villages wafting the irresistible smell of freshly baked bread from their local boulangeries.

The pace of this trip is laid back, giving ample opportunity to visit the opulent chateaux of Chambord and Chenonceaux, enjoy gentle cycling along the banks of the Loire and of course savour the wonderful local flavours during lazy lunches.

The distances aren't too challenging and we include four circular rides, allowing you to unpack for more than a night and properly explore some of the lovely towns during the evening. Our journey starts in Blois, perched above the river Loire, and then meanders gently through Amboise and Azay le Rideau before finishing in the pretty town of Chinon.

This relaxing ride really will give you a true taste of France.

Michelin Guide Listing

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

What makes this trip responsible?

We use local leaders who are committed to responsible tourism and helping to preserve the way of life in their area. Our local operator uses small family run hotels and restaurants which are staffed locally and the produce used is sourced from local markets and farms. The hotel and restaurant staff are always very welcoming and provide an excellent opportunity for you to learn more about the area you are visiting. Our local operator is also involved in the development of cycle networks in rural areas.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: France

Day 1

Start Blois.

Day 2

We start our circular ride following the Loire River before making our way to Chambord to visit the famous chateau.

Day 3

Ride south to Montrichard. En route we pass many pretty Loire villages, including Cheverny, Chitnay and Fougeres-sur-Bievre before reaching the Cher River and visiting some Roman ruins at Thesee.

Day 4

Circular ride to Amboise and Chenonceaux through vineyards and past troglodyte houses. The stunning 'Chateau des Dames' in Chenonceaux will blow you away with its beauty.

Day 5

Ride along the banks of the Cher River before following the Indre to Azay le Rideau, where there is time to visit the chateau and the village before we end our day in Chinon, our base for the next three nights.

Day 6

Circular ride following the Vienne River to Candes Saint Martin before heading to the magnificent abbey of Fontevraud.

Day 7

Today the surrounding vineyards will form the backdrop to our circular ride to Crissay-sur-Manse.

Day 8

End Chinon.

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