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Highlights

This Loire Valley Cycling Tour -- the luxury hotel option to visit the charming Loire Valley by bicycle -- offers the perfect itinerary for rejuvenating both mind and body. The tranquil waters of the Loire, Indre, and Cher Rivers flow through the heart of this scenic region known for its vineyards, orchards, and magnificent castles. The flat-to-rolling terrain is perfect for cycling and is filled with trees and colors.

For many visitors, the Loire Valley conjures images from the fairy tales of childhood. This tour starts in Amboise, an important cultural town with both a castle and historical sites. The cycling will take you to chateaux that are visiting such as Chenonceau and Azay le Rideau, and also the kind you stay in such as Chateau d'Artigny - one of the most famous in whole France. You will also cycle through some important wine regions and have the chance to explore some well known gardens. All the best of the Loire Valley by bicycle!

To see

- Royal Chateau of Amboise or the Clos Lucé (former home of Leonardo De Vinci).
- Chenonceau Castle
- Chateau Bourdaisiere
- Donjon of Montbazon
- The castle of Azay le Rideau
- Chateau of Langeais
- Chinon castle
- The famous and historic Abbaye de Fontevraud
- Saumur castle
- Montreuil Bellay chateau

Gastronomy

Fricassee of snails with Sancerre, the Crottin of Chavignol, the Valencay, 1550 chicken with saffron, the Blois orchard, the rillette, the cremet d'Anjou, the caramandes, the tuffline

Wine

Muscadet, Pouilly Fume, Sancerre, the light red Saumur, Bourgueil, Chinon

Feedbacks


PROGRAM

J-1

Arrival in Amboise


Take the train to **SAINT PIERRE DES CORPS TGV station, located only 1h from Paris by train. Transfer on your own by taxi to Amboise and settle at your charming hotel. Please note that if you arrive to the Amboise train station, there are very few taxis and most of the hotels are not walking distance. (If you are staying at Hotel la Breche, you have the option to take the train to the Amboise station and walk to your hotel).

If you arrive early enough, take the time to visit the nearby Château of Clos Lucé or the Royal Chateau of Amboise.The Chateau of Clos Lucé is accessible with a short walk outside the main center of Amboise (well signed), best known as being the house where Leonardo da Vinci was invited to live by King Francois I - Leonardo lived here from 1516 to the time of his death in 1519.


Accommodation : Hotel Le Choiseul**** - Amboise show
Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,dinner (no drinks),bedroom and breakfast

J-2

From Amboise LOOP to Chenonceau


A short and moderately flat ride will take you through the forests and alleys of the Amboise countryside passing by the Parc Mini Chateaux (great for kids) and then dropping down to the fabulous Chenonceau castle that must be discovered with plenty of time to visit. Chenonceau, erected by Henry II in the XVIth century over the Cher river and improved by Catherine de Medicis. The castle hides several pieces of historical interest, furniture and tapestries. For the long option you will continue on to Montrichard, La Genaudière and St. Regle before returning to Amboise.

Distances : 36 or 53 km (21 or 32 mi).

Elevation : 279 or 415 m.


Accommodation : Hotel Le Choiseul**** - Amboise show
Included : bedroom and breakfast

Activity

Canoeing underneath Chenonceaux - 4 Km

If you have chosen the canoeing activity, remember to look at the activity map to see the meeting point.

- start from the canoe base camp for a loop to Chenonceau , with the best view ever on the most famous chateau in the Loire Valley.

Note : from 6 years old and must be able to swim. It's not possible for 1 person !

- Canoeing is a water-based activity, so bring a change of clothes if necessary.


J-3

From Amboise to Montbazon-Veigne


Depart with a nice paved bike lane in the middle of the vineyards of Montlouis. You then have the opportunity to visit Chateau Bourdaisiere (Only garden and tomato conservatory). Then carry on to Montbazon just south of Tours and your deluxe lodging.

Distance : 41 Km (25 mi).

Elevation : 305 m.


Accommodation : Domaine de la Tortiniere**** - Montbazon-Veigne show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)

J-4

From Montbazon-Veigne to Luynes


You start with a nice ride through rolling countryside to the site of the castle of Azay le Rideau (option to visit the Chateau of Villandry). Here, alongside the Indre River, this is one of the more classical chateaux from the Renaissance period. You will then cross the Loire river to discover the chateau of Langeais. After a visit you will start cycling toward Luynes with a nice and relatively long countryside ride.

Distance : 51 km or 54 km or 70 km (32, 34 or 43 mi).

Elevation : 326 or 281 or 346 m.


Accommodation : Chateau de Beauvois**** - Luynes - Saint Etienne de Chigny show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)

J-5

From Luynes to Chenehutte


Your day starts with a taxi transfer to the wine town of Chinon. Transfer is scheduled for 9:00 am.

Chinon is famous for its castle as well; dating back to Joan of Arc and medieval times. From Chinon, you will have a leisure ride toward the famous and historic Abbaye of Fontevraud. This double monastery with royal heritage dates back to the year 1110. It is still a functioning abbey and open to visitors. After your visit, continue to your hotel nearby with gourmet dinner.

Distances : 44km (27mi)

Elevation : 280 m.


Accommodation : Chateau le Prieure**** - Chenehutte show
Included : luggage transfer,client transfer,bike transfer,dinner (no drinks),bedroom and breakfast

J-6

From Chenehutte LOOP to Montreuil


From Chenehutte, visit Saumur and its grand château overlooking the town. The Château de Saumur was built in the 10th century by Thibault le Tricheur, Count of Blois. Originally, it was a fortress designed to protect the town from Norman invasion. Today's loop will take you to Château de Montreuil Bellay. Return to Chenehutte.

Distance: 50Km (31mi).

Elevation gain: 450m.


Accommodation : Chateau le Prieure**** - Chenehutte show
Included : bedroom and breakfast

J-7

Departure from Chenehutte


You can take your time getting started in the morning, enjoy breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Trains are available from Saumur to Paris or to other destinations.


Included : breakfast

CUSTOMIZED
TOUR

This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Arrival city is Amboise : accessible via train from Paris to St Pierre des Corps

Taxi to your first hotel : 1 hour by TGV

Departure from Chenehutte, located at 20 minutes (bus or taxi) from Saumur. Then they are direct trains to Paris. (2h25m)

BIKES


included

Hybrid Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.

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

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30 unisex (or equivalent)

All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.

Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L

Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff 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

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."




optional

Road Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)

With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.

Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.

Included with your bike rental :

  • Front pannier containing:
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 2 spare tubes
  • 1 hand pump
  • Rear pannier
  • Helmet
  • Odometer
  • Lock
  • 2 souvenir water bottles
  • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.

Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Road Bike - Excellence

More info

Bike rental description :

PINARELLO Pinarello X3 - 105/Di2 (Excellence) (or equivalent)

Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next

road.

Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.



Included with your bike rental :

  • Front pannier containing:
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 2 spare tubes
  • 1 hand pump.
  • Helmet
  • 2 souvenir water bottles
  • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Road Bike - Premium

More info

Bike rental description :

TREK Emonda SLR 7 (Premium) (or equivalent)

The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise.

Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.

Included with your bike rental :



  • Front pannier containing:
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 2 spare tubes
  • 1 hand pump
  • Helmet
  • 2 souvenir water bottles
  • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Gravel Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)

A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.

Available sizes :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.

Included with your bike rental :

  • Helmet
  • Bottles (2)
  • Front bag (S)
  • Rear saddlebag (L)
  • Computer
  • Padlock
  • Patch Kit (tire levers, spare tubes, multi-tool, patches, pump)
  • Pedals : flat, cages or own available

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."

Details

Included


ACCOMODATIONS

- 6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath

MEALS

- Daily breakfast at each hotel, 4 gastronomic dinners included at your hotel

BIKES

- Hybrid bike rental included

GEAR

- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)

SUPPORT

- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed Road Book, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)

TRANSFER

- All luggage transfers

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.
- Multirisk travel insurance

Other questions?

See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.

FAQ

Rates

Tour rates vary based on hotel availability and specific start date

PRICE FROM / PER PERSON
UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION
Double occupancy *
2400 €
Single supplement **
412 €
Solo traveler ***
2820 €

* Please contact us for triple hotel rates. ** Traveling with a group. *** Traveling alone.

Upgrade your bike

From / Per person

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard
115€
Road Bike - Standard
115€
Road Bike - Excellence
260€
Road Bike - Premium
320€
Gravel Bike - Standard
115€

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

Cancellation insurance 6%

UPGRADED HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

Hotel Le Choiseul**** - Amboise

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. Three 16th and 18th-century houses nestle together by the River Loire, enclosed in Italian-style gardens, that skirt troglodyte caves... Le Choiseul promises an historical experience in an exceptional location. The hotel has 30 rooms of 5 different categories, from the most elegant apartment to the most delightful room. All the rooms are elegantly decorated in keeping with their location and enjoy modern comforts, they offer pleasant views over the garden, the Loire and the Château d'Amboise. Sit on the sunny garden terrace and enjoy the delightful gardens with a collection of original Italian sculptures.
http://www.grandesetapes.com/en/castle-hotel-choiseul-amboise

Hotel Le Choiseul**** - Amboise

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. Three 16th and 18th-century houses nestle together by the River Loire, enclosed in Italian-style gardens, that skirt troglodyte caves... Le Choiseul promises an historical experience in an exceptional location. The hotel has 30 rooms of 5 different categories, from the most elegant apartment to the most delightful room. All the rooms are elegantly decorated in keeping with their location and enjoy modern comforts, they offer pleasant views over the garden, the Loire and the Château d'Amboise. Sit on the sunny garden terrace and enjoy the delightful gardens with a collection of original Italian sculptures.
http://www.grandesetapes.com/en/castle-hotel-choiseul-amboise

Domaine de la Tortiniere**** - Montbazon-Veigne

The Domaine de la Tortinière is a boutique hotel in the heart of the châteaux of Loire Valley. The hotel is situated just 15 kilometres from Tours in the Touraine area, where the most beautiful châteaux in the Loire Valley region are waiting to be discovered and reveal their secrets. Our charming bedrooms combine classic style with modern comfort and conveniences and, in some cases, a magnificent view over the Indre valley. Guests may savour a gastronomic meal out in the open or in the dining room at the Domaine de la Tortinière’s restaurant before setting off on another exploration of the Loire Valley châteaux.
http://www.tortiniere.com/en/

Chateau de Beauvois**** - Luynes - Saint Etienne de Chigny

This very attractive manor dating from the 16th and 18th Centuries west of Tours is surrounded by 99 acres park and faces Lake Briffaut. Since its transformation in 1967, the Domaine has been constantly embellished and enlarged, but its style has been maintained. The Domaine de Beauvois has 36 rooms of 5 different categories, all located inside the Manor house. It is an oasis of peace sought after by stars of the arts and show business, such as Robert de Niro, Jessye Norman and Grace Kelly or the leading racing drivers in the Le Mans 24 hour race.
https://www.beauvois.com/

Chateau le Prieure**** - Chenehutte

Chateau Le Prieuré Saumur - La Maison Younan offers accommodation in Chènehutte-les-Tuffeaux, 21 km from the Biopark of Doué-la-Fontaine. It offers a bar, a gourmet restaurant, a terrace with panoramic views of the Loire River and meeting rooms. All rooms have flat-screen cable TV, a desk and a minibar. Their private bathrooms come with a bathtub, hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy meals at the hotel's gourmet restaurant, Castellane, upon reservation.
https://www.prieure.com/en/

Chateau le Prieure**** - Chenehutte

Chateau Le Prieuré Saumur - La Maison Younan offers accommodation in Chènehutte-les-Tuffeaux, 21 km from the Biopark of Doué-la-Fontaine. It offers a bar, a gourmet restaurant, a terrace with panoramic views of the Loire River and meeting rooms. All rooms have flat-screen cable TV, a desk and a minibar. Their private bathrooms come with a bathtub, hairdryer and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy meals at the hotel's gourmet restaurant, Castellane, upon reservation.
https://www.prieure.com/en/