Loire Valley Wine Tour

This trip includes some of the best wine tasting of Loire Valley area : red wine from Chinon, sparkling Vouvray wine, Montlouis, Saumur Champigny… It combines the Loire Valley vineyards with the most beautiful and famous chateaux and villages of the area.
Most of the itineraries are on bike paths that travel through the vineyards without crossing a car. Because it can be frustrating to visit a wine country and not be able to bring some wine home, some of the wine tasting places offer a shipping service!
You have the option to take cooking classes to prepare your own meal to go with the delicious wine for an additional fee.

During the harvest season, cellar visits and wine tasting are subject to availability and security conditions. During this period, it may be difficult to book these activities. For more information, please contact your travel consultant.

Price from : 1180€
BIKE INCLUDED
Region : Loire
Duration : 7 Days / 6 Nights
Level : or
Type : On the way
Category : Bike
Trip : Self-guided
Activity : Hybrid
Dates : Starts any day

Click below to see hotels versions.

Day 1 :   Arrive in Amboise

From Paris, you can take the TGV to Saint Pierre des Corps and then a taxi to Amboise. Transfer on your own and settle into your hotel.

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and give information including a map explaining the Loire Valley wines and appellations. We will set up and equip your bike for you and answer your questions about this tour.

If you arrive early enough you can visit the nearby Royal Chateau of Amboise or the Clos Lucé (former home of Leonardo De Vinci).

Day 2 :   Loop Ride to Chenonceau With Wine tasting

Option 1 : 22 Miles - 36 Km  Option 2 : 31 Miles - 50 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 131 Meters  Elevation gain 2 : 349 Meters 

The ride today will take you through the vineyards of the Amboise area and to the famous Chateau of Chenonceau that you can visit at your own pace. During your visit you can see the cellar of Chenonceau and try the local wine made in the chateau itself!

Continue your ride towards the charming village of Montrichard and the cave of Monmousseau to discover their secrets of sparkling wines production. Return to Amboise, where you can continue to explore the historical center and chateaux.

Day 3 :   RIDE TO TOURS WITH VOUVRAY WINE TASTING

Distance 1 : 21 Miles - 34 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 290 Meters 

The morning starts with a beautiful ride in the vineyards of Montlouis. You will see and eventually meet wine producers working there. Stop in the charming village of Montlouis where you can go visit local producers’ wineries or keep on riding to the next wine area on the other side of the Loire River in Vouvray.

Vouvray is known for its sparkling wine (similar to Champagne). Finish your ride in Tours, a bike friendly town with nice bike lanes by the river. You can choose to have dinner in one of the many “bar à vin” wine bars listed in your travel book.

Day 4 :   CHATEAU DE VILLANDRY ON TO AZAY LE RIDEAU

Option 1 : 21 Miles - 34 Km  Option 2 : 29 Miles - 46 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 200 Meters  Elevation gain 2 : 250 Meters 

This morning you will ride on one of the nicest bike paths in the area. Only fishermen and cyclists take this peaceful lane that brings you to the famous gardens of the Chateau de Villandry. There are many possibilities for lunch in Villandry, you can try the vegetables that come from the gardens of the chateau in the restaurant nearby!

Day 5 :   Chinon Wine and Castle

Option 1 : 25 Miles - 41 Km  Option 2 : 32 Miles - 52 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 171 Meters  Elevation gain 2 : 326 Meters 

Your ride continues west and to the most famous wine area of the Loire Valley: Chinon. First you will go through the village of “vannerie” (weaved basketry) and through one of the most beautiful village of France: Crissay sur Mance. Then you enter the territory of Chinon vineyards! The longer riding option travels through the charming village of l’île Bouchard. Your destination of the day brings you to Chinon. Do not miss the fortress of Chinon, on the top hill of the town. The story says that it is there that Joan of Arc met the king to raise an army against England.

Day 6 :   From Chinon Red Wine to Saumur Sparkling White

Option 1 : 21 Miles - 34 Km  Option 2 : 29 Miles - 46 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 187 Meters  Elevation gain 2 : 300 Meters 

The day starts with an easy ride along the river bank. You can decide to do the long ride and visit the largest abbey of Europe: Fontevraud Abbaye. Not to miss is the “Tuffaut” troglodytic site (lime stone caves) and the picturesque Turquant, with its unique village of workshops of local artists and craftsmen located within the limestone caves. This evening there is another chateau that you can visit: Saumur Chateau. Settle in your hotel, if you want to try another wine cellar, our recommendations are noted in the travel book. There is also a wine cellar where you can ride your bike around!

Day 7 :   Departure Day

Departure after a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel.

Average / Day : Distance : 41.44 Km / 25.67 Miles - Elevation gain : 244.89 Meters

Click below to see hotels versions.


Day : Pre-tour Night, 1, 2

At a distance of 500 yards from the town center in the shadow in the raised garden, this residence dating from the begining of the 20th century (renovated in 2000) has been able to preserve the tradition of the "art de vivre" in Touraine. This charming hotel (without air conditioning) welcomes you with its familial and friendly atmosphere.


Day : 3

In the heart of the city of Tours, hôtel Colbert gives you all the comfort of a country house hotel. Take advantage of our ideal location for your stay in Tours. We are right next to the business center, as well as the historic and touristic sites that the rich region of TOURS has to offer. hôtel Colbert is conveniently located on Colbert Street, the oldest street of Tours, with its numerous restaurants and adapted to all kind of budgets.Should you need a night walk or a morning jog, hôtel Colbert is at walking distance from the banks of the Loire or the inevitable plaza of Tours: “Place Plumereau.


Day : 4

Built rue Balzac in the village of Azay-le-Rideau, the hotel de Biencourt was during the 16th century a hotel named White Horse. It later became a place where the real tennis was played before becoming under the Second Empire a school for boys and the village first girls class.Ideally located in the heart of Azay-le-Rideau, just a stone's throw from the castle, you will find here the charm of the past with all the comfort you would expect when away from home. The courtyard garden is an oasis of peace to relax after a long day of discovering.


Day : 5

Hotel Diderot is like arriving at a friend's house with the charm of an authentic dwelling built in the fifteenth century and modified in the eighteenth century. It's just a few hundred meters from the town center, the medieval quarter and the chateau. On the terrace, you will remember your visits to chateaux or vineyards, while drinking a glass of the Chinon wine praised by Francois Rabelais.


Day : 6

Le Londres Hotel & Apartments is ideally located at the heart of the town centre, within walking distance of the château, pedestrian streets and restaurants. Le Londres has perpetuated the tradition of excellent entertaining since 1837. Since July 2005, Le Londres hotel has been undergoing sweeping renovation works. Inspired by its glorious past when it was the Grand hôtel de Londres, we have completely refurbished our hotel rooms with a strong desire to faithfully render the historical spirit of the place by choosing plush textures and noble materials (wood and iron works, tuffeau walls) whilst providing a strong dose of modern comfort in order to perpetuate the nice story that began 175 years ago!


Day : Pre-tour Night

Picture-perfect and as well cared for as all get out, this gorgeously stylish hotel is lucky enough to preside over a Loire riverbank under the shadow of Amboise great cliffside chateau. Set within its own compound and centered around a grass parterre, this quaintly shuttered manoir looks like it is on sabbatical from a Fragonard landscape -- a pavillon in the 18th-century style, it is a refreshing change from the usual Renaissance castle-style so prevalent in these parts. Inside, the grand staircase (note: no elevator), dining room, and main salon are all a-dazzle in daffodil yellow silks and gilt-framed mirrors, with ruby accents of the Louis Seize sofas and bergeres.


Day : 1, 2

This is a sumptuous 17th century house converted into a charming hotel in 2003 and upgraded into a luxury hotel in 2011 retaining its character. Hotel Le Clos d'Amboise**** is located in the very heart of the Royal City of Amboise, in the authentic and picturesque historic part of the city that contains Francois 1er chateau, and further on, Leonardo da Vinci's residence, the Clos Lucé.


Day : 3

A small luxury guest house with refined simplicity, la Maison Jules is set in a charming 19th century mansion, with gardens in the heart of the city of Tours, France.


Day : 4

In the heart of the Valley of the Kings, where the Touraine is the most authentic, sits Le Grand Monarque. Located in Azay le Rideau, the hotel offers a charming stay and relaxation. During your stay you'll discover its enchantment, a peace of mind to yourself, a great comfort, and an art of living accompanied with genuine French cuisine.


Day : 5

Hotel Diderot is like arriving at a friend's house with the charm of an authentic dwelling built in the fifteenth century and modified in the eighteenth century. It's just a few hundred meters from the town center, the medieval quarter and the chateau. On the terrace, you will remember your visits to chateaux or vineyards, while drinking a glass of the Chinon wine praised by Francois Rabelais.


Day : 6

On the Loire river banks, near the historic center town, beneath the Castle which gave immortal fame to the " Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry", this private mansion house built in the 18th century still echoes with the ardors of restoration heroes and military romance ...A historically graded fa?_ade, a magnificient staircase crowned by a trompe-l'oeil celling, designs of Percier and Fontaine, Napoleon's architects, ... so many historical marks that you contemplate with emotion.


Day : Pre-tour Night, 1, 2

Located at the edge of the Loire and at the foot of the Royal Castle of Amboise, homeland of Leonardo da Vinci, the hotel Le Choiseul is a charming house typically from Tours built in 18th century. The hotel enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the Valley of Loire castles. Le Choiseul has 30 rooms of 5 different categories, from the most elegant apartment to the most delightful room. They offer pleasant views over the Italian garden, the Loire and the Château d'Amboise.


Day : 3

A small luxury guest house with refined simplicity, la Maison Jules is set in a charming 19th century mansion, with gardens in the heart of the city of Tours, France.


Day : 4

In the heart of the Valley of the Kings, where the Touraine is the most authentic, sits Le Grand Monarque. Located in Azay le Rideau, the hotel offers a charming stay and relaxation. During your stay you'll discover its enchantment, a peace of mind to yourself, a great comfort, and an art of living accompanied with genuine French cuisine.


Day : 5

Hotel Diderot is like arriving at a friend's house with the charm of an authentic dwelling built in the fifteenth century and modified in the eighteenth century. It's just a few hundred meters from the town center, the medieval quarter and the chateau. On the terrace, you will remember your visits to chateaux or vineyards, while drinking a glass of the Chinon wine praised by Francois Rabelais.


Day : 6

Peacefully set in a four acre park, right in the midst of Saumur, Verrieres allows you to discover the charm and History of the Loire Valley. Verrieres has nevertheless kept its private mansion atmosphere, with its authentic decoration and its period furniture.

Bikes available for your tour

The characteristics of this bike are presented as an example and are not guaranteed
Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.

Hybrid bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - ( or equivalent)
INCLUDED

The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.

Available in men and women versions. Available sizes : Men's M, L, XL ; Women's S, L

  • Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
  • Included with your bike rental :
  • Helmet
  • Lock
  • Hand pump
  • 2 spare tubes
  • Rear pannier
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 1 souvenir water bottle
  • Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request

Accessories


INCLUDED

Roadbook for Discovery allows you to travel freely with all the information you need for your trip: Stages, points of interest, itineraries with interactive guidance, travel documents.

All in offline mode, you download your file before leaving, then you have all the information necessary for your trip. (Phone not provided).


INCLUDED

Our roadbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. We have invested significant time and incorporated the feedback of our customers over many years (since 1997!) to make our roadbooks even better. Our roadbooks include: color maps, highlighted routes, touristic information, orientation points to reach hotels, and easy to follow step by step directions (cue-sheets). Please note that for custom itineraries you will not have cue sheets. Only maps and GPS routes.


INCLUDED

Our Travelbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. You will find information about the hotels, itinerary, regional informations...

Click below to see activities per trip version.

Extra activities can change based on the tour dates

ACTIVITIES INCLUDED

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Daily Elevation Profiles
Average / Day : Distance : 41.44 Km / 25.67 Miles - Elevation gain : 244.89 Meters
Day 2 :   Loop Ride to Chenonceau With Wine tasting

Option 1: 22 Miles - 36 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 131 Meters 

Option 2: 31 Miles - 50 Km  Elevation gain 2 : 349 Meters 

Day 3 :   RIDE TO TOURS WITH VOUVRAY WINE TASTING

Option 1: 21 Miles - 34 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 290 Meters 

Day 4 :   CHATEAU DE VILLANDRY ON TO AZAY LE RIDEAU

Option 1: 21 Miles - 34 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 200 Meters 

Option 2: 29 Miles - 46 Km  Elevation gain 2 : 250 Meters 

Day 5 :   Chinon Wine and Castle

Option 1: 25 Miles - 41 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 171 Meters 

Option 2: 32 Miles - 52 Km  Elevation gain 2 : 326 Meters 

Day 6 :   From Chinon Red Wine to Saumur Sparkling White

Option 1: 21 Miles - 34 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 187 Meters 

Option 2: 29 Miles - 46 Km  Elevation gain 2 : 300 Meters 

Included

  • 6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
  • Daily breakfast at each hotel, 1 dinner included 
  • Hybrid bike rental included
  • 4 Wine tasting (with 3 wine tasting with possibility to ship you wine to the USA)
  • 1 light lunch during a wine tasting
  • Orientation in person with our local guide
  • Detailed ROAD BOOK, including details maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
  • Guidance Application (phone not provided)

  • All luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive trip literature
  • Technical and emergency support available at all times

What's not included

  • Airfare to and from the trip
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Drinks
  • Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.

Informations & Recommendations

Arrival city is Amboise, which accessible via train from Paris to St Pierre des Corps. 1hour by TGV or train to Amboise 1hour 35min.

Departure from Saumur with direct trains to Paris. (2h25m).

Tour rates

Contact our tour consultants for more information and an exact rate based upon your travel dates.

Price from* & per person Double occupancy Single supplement
(traveling with a group)
Solo traveler
(traveling alone)
Basic 1180 € 160 € 1730 €
Standard 1390 € 310 € 2090 €
Upgraded 1850 € 590 € 2790 €
*Rates vary according to hotel availability and specific start date. Please contact us for triple room rates

Activities

Category Activity Price
Wine tasting Caves Ambacia Included
Wine tasting Château de Gaudrelle Included
Cooking Class Château de Gaudrelle +215 €/person
Group 2-3 pax
Wine tasting Domaine de Noire Winery Included
Wine tasting Chateau de Parnay Included

Extra activities can change based on the tour dates

Accessories

Accessories
Guidance Application Included
Biking Roadbook Included
Travelbook Included

Bikes available


Bikes available Options per person
Hybrid Bike Rental
    Standard Included
Road Bike Rental
    Standard 135 €
    Premium 275 €
Electric assist bike
    Standard 135 €
Kid Bike Rental
    Standard -40 €
Tandem Bike Rental
    Standard 40 €

I bring my bike Discount of -90€ if you ride with your own bicycle.



Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.

Services available

Services available
Cancelation insurance 6%
Luggage transfer
    On a 2-person basis 155 €/pers

Bot scann is mandatory