Day 1 Arrival in Saint Pierre des Corps-Tours TGV station, located only 1h from Paris by train. You can also take a train to Amboise directly, about 2h from Paris.Transfer on your own to Amboise and settle at your deluxe 4 star hotel Le Choiseul. Orientation and bike set up at 4:30pm. Dinner on your own. (What to do in Amboise)

Day 2 - Ride To Vouvray Vinyards: A quiet bike tour on the other side of the Loire through gentle, verdant landscapes, far removed from the main roads - visit the Ecomusée du Pays de Vouvray for a presentation of wine growing and wine making in the 19th century as well as associated trades. 45km (B) Return to same hotel, dinner on your own.

About Vouvray wines: Vouvray is the largest white wine appellation of the Anjou-Saumur-Touraine region and it produces splendid wines from the dry and austere to the richest dessert wines, as well as excellent sparkling wines.

Day 3Amboise to Cheverny. The Loire, Touraine’s First Lady, will be your guide for a gentle bike tour via the stables and gardens of the Chaumont-sur-Loire XVIth century castle and the «Tintin» Château of Moulinsart at Cheverny, famous for its kennels and trophy room. Then cycle on to your 3* Chateau Hotel outside of Cheverny in a quiet country setting, dinner included.. 47km (B,D) Read about chateaux on this trip

Day 4Loop ride to Chambord. A flat ride will take you through the alleys of the 5000 ha Domain of Chambord to the most fabulous Unesc World heritage listed jewel of the Loire. An equestrian show in the stables of the Maréchal de Saxe or a barge tour along the castle may complete your visit. Return to the same hotel for dinner and the night. 60 km (B,D)

Day 5 Cheverny to Chenonceau. A scenic ride will take you to the Cher river valley and the Château de Chenonceau, erected by Henry II in the XVIth century over the Cher river and improved by Catherine de Medici. The castle hides several pieces of historical interest, furniture and tapestries. As you overnight in Chenonceau at a very comfortable 4 star hotel. At the chateau this night you may enjoy a Son et Lumière Show. Dinner included. Ride distance is 46km (B,D)

Day 6Chenonceau to Azay le Rideau. The charming Cher and Indre Valleys guarantee nice quiet routes through colourful landscapes which will take you to the scenic small town of Azay-le-Rideau. There, you can visit the Musée Maurice Dufresne, with its private collection «Yesterday’s toys, Today’s dreams» and the amazing collection of restored vehicles. The Château of Azay-le-Rideau is one of the most elegant creations of the early Renaissance. Stay in Montbazon at the deluxe Chateau d'Artigny, dinner included. 60km cycling. (B,,D)

Day 7Loop tour - Vinyards or Gardens . Today's ride will take you to vineyards of Chinon. Via the banks of the Loire river and the Château d’Ussé we reach the wine area of Chinon «Town of History and Art». Chinon offers various points of interest such as the XVth century Eglise Saint Etienne and the Eglise Saint Maurice with its XIIth century bell tower. The imposing medieval fortress with fine tapestry collection, Joan of Arc museum and medieval weapon systems offers a nice panoramic view. This route can be extended by a visit of the Château and gardens of Villandry – a unique example of Renaissance architecture and gardens -. Optional routes from 35-85 km riding to see Chateau of Usse. Return to same hotel and dinner on your own. (B)

Day 8 is departure day from Montbazon. Transfer options back to Tours possible by taxi. (B)