Information : The must-see Loire Valley cycling tour
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D.Darrault - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
H.Baussanne
C. Mouton - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Gillard et Vincent - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
D. Darrault - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Gillard et Vincent - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Gillard et Vincent- CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Presentation
Do you have a few days to spend in a region rich in history and gastronomy? Don't hesitate, choose this cycling trip along the Loire to discover the history of France. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the perfect place to cycle with family or friends, through the changing landscapes of the Loire Valley, past castles, vineyards and forests.
You'll love
Discover 3 best-known châteaux, Chambord, Chaumont and Chenonceaux
Pleasant, well-marked itineraries
3 star category accommodation
An enchanting natural setting, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Arrival in Blois in the afternoon and take advantage of the late afternoon to discover the château. The setting sun adorns the imposing spiral staircase in beautiful pinks and reds.
Settle into your room.
Dinner at leisure and night in 3 star hotel.
D2
Bike ride to Chambord castle
44km – Duration 3h
This morning, we cycle up the Loire to Saint Dyé sur Loire. You then leave the banks of the river and enter the countryside, once the court's favorite hunting grounds. Watch out for deer! A few kilometers further on, the Château de Chambord comes into view. Take the time to explore every nook and cranny, climb to the roof and stroll through the gardens.
Dinner at leisure and night in 3 star hotel.
D3
Cycling from Blois to Chaumont sur Loire
18km (or 37km) – Duration 1h15 (or 2h)
This time, let the current carry you downstream to Chaumont sur Loire. Catherine de Medicis' château opens its doors to you. After your visit, take a detour through the park and its listed trees, and of course the gardens. Here, gardening is an art, and every year, the International Garden Festival takes place behind the stables: colors and scents to delight the whole family!
Your next stop is Amboise. Make your way to Chaumont station to complete the day's itinerary by train. The bravest can finish the tour by bike.
Dinner at leisure and night in 3 star hotel.
D4
Back ride to Chenonceau castle
43km – Duration 2h
If you didn't have time the day before, devote part of the morning to discovering Le Clos Lucé. This house and garden was Leonardo da Vinci's last home. An exhibition presents the incredible creations of this genius, and life-size models are dotted around the garden.
The second part of the day takes you to the Château de Chenonceau on the banks of the Cher. Known as the "château des dames", it was once the home of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis. The incredible history of this château is matched only by its beauty. Return to Amboise at the end of the day.
Dinner at leisure and night in 3 star hotel.
D5
Departure
Departure after breakfast.
You will take a train back to Blois to collect your vehicle.
Type of roads : Cycle paths, vineyard/agricultural tracks and quiet country roads
Type of bike required: mountain bikes
Organisation
This cycling trip around the Loire castles is more about discovery than sport. Your luggage is transported from accommodation to accommodation by us, and a route booklet accompanies you throughout your stay. We also provide logistical and technical assistance.
On long stays, you change accommodation every other day, so you can explore the surrounding area or simply take time out to rest.
Accommodations (**and *** hotels) have been chosen for their atmosphere, quality of welcome, architecture and environment. Some stages of the tour are offered without evening meals. At these stages, there are numerous and varied catering options.
N.B.: the accommodations described above are given for information only and are subject to change according to availability at the time of final booking.
Access
By car
Highway A10 : Paris / Bordeaux, exit Blois (170 km) Nationale road RN 152 : Paris / Orléans / Blois (180 km)
By air
Paris or Tours airports + train to Blois SNCF train station. Accomodation is 10 mn walking from the train station.
By train
Blois SNCF trai station. Accomodation is 10 mn walking from the train station.
Comments
Global note
5.0
Well-organised trip. The stopover hotels were carefully chosen and the staff were very friendly.
This trip gives you a whole new perspective on the Châteaux of the Loire. (translated from french)
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