The Loire Valley from a different point of view ! How many people see the Castle of Chenonceau from a canoe ?! You can on this trip; as well as experiencing zip lining, cycling and hiking! Discover the old town of Tours on an easy orienteering course, and taste some local chocolate in Amboise. 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. This multi activity trip still takes you to the highlight castles, villages, and allows you to experience the best of the Loire but in a totally different way !
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 program will take you to chateaus such as in Chenonceau and Azay le Rideau, and also the kind you stay in if you choose to upgrade. You will also visit some important wine regions and have the chance to explore some well-known gardens.
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.
To
see
- Chenonceau Castle
- The famous gardens of Villandry and castle
- Azay castle
- Sache, chateau of the famous writer Balzac
- Chateau d’Usse and Chinon
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
We very much enjoyed our self-guided cycling tour. We had great support and communication in the planning. Throughout our week everything went off as planned.
Mark B.
This was my second experience with Discover France and had, again, an amazing time with my children. If you want to discover, on your own, little cities in France, this is what you have to do.
Linda G.
Our first but certainly not our last trip to beautiful France! The routes were well laid out, the app worked well, the bikes were comfortable and the hotels were excellent.
Ingrid A.
We truly had a glorious time and only have compliments for you and your company. Equipment, information, assistance, accommodation were faultless and Solène at Discovery France took care of us from the first e-mail of enquiry until the end of the cycle trip. We truly can’t wait for our next adventure with Discover France. Anna.V
Hands down, the best adventure organization I've worked with abroad. This will be my 5th time returning with Discover France in 2025. Their programs are unforgettable, with VIP access that surpasses other TDF organizations. They focus on the ride, course, and ensuring the best experience possible. While other programs offer extras, Discover France stands out for its exclusivity and small groups. No expert rider is needed, but comfort on a bike is essential. Their support vehicle, with special French credentials, accompanies you throughout. The best organization ever!
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accommodations
over large chains.
Standard : 3* or 4* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accommodations
over large chains.
Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
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 Pavillon des Lys**** - Amboise
show
Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom, city tax and breakfast the next morning,dinner (no drinks)
J-2
From Amboise LOOP to Chenonceau
Canoeing and chocolate tasting today ! 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. Once at Chenonceau, ride to Civray, just a mile away to start your canoe ride ! You will drop off your bikes there, and they will take you to the start of the itinerary. You will then canoe downstream for almost 2 hours, and pass under the Chateau de Chenonceau. Pick up your bikes and ride back to Amboise where you can enjoy a reward : a chocolate tasting in front of the chateau of Amboise !
Notes :The canoe rideBalade 4 - 4km starts at 1:45pm
Canoeing is a water-based activity, so bring a change of clothes if necessary.
Distances : 36 or 53 Km (21 or 32 mi).
Elevation : 279 or 415m
Note : If you choose an other balade (6km) The canoe ridestarts at 1:45pmwith a shuttle up river. Please don't be late since you'll miss the shuttle if you do .You'll still have the opportunity for canoeing but you'll have to paddle up river which will slightly change your itinerary.
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.
Chocolate tasting
Chocolate tasting in the best chocolate place of the Loire Valley : "chocolaterie Bigot" in Amboise including 1 drink (hot or cold) and a variety of 4 chocolates.
Open Daily from 9:00am - 7:30pm
J-3
From Tours LOOP hiking
In order to discover Tours in detail, we propose exploring the city center. Tours has a lot to offer and plenty to visit : the Michel Colombe Statue, The Saint Gatien Cathedrale, the Wilson Bridge, the old town of Tours, Saint Martin Basilica,...
Distance : 5.3km (3.6 mi).
Accommodation : Hotel Oceania l'Univers**** - Tours
show
Accommodation : Chateau de Beaulieu*** - Joue les Tours
show
Included : Orienteering,luggage transfer,bedroom, city tax and breakfast the next morning
Going first to Savonnieres and then to the famous gardens of Villandry, which were designed to be in complete harmony with the Renaissance architecture of the chateau. You will ride alongside the Cher and Loire Rivers and along the Loire a Velo route. Then you will continue to Azay le Rideau, your final destination for today, famous for its Chateau on the Indre River, originally built in the Middle Ages to protect the passage from the road going from Tours to Chinon. The long option gives you the opportunity to visit Sache, chateau of the famous writer Balzac.
Distances : 34 or 46 Km (21 or 28 mi)
Elevation : 200 or 250 m
Accommodation : Le Grand Monarque**** - Azay-Le-Rideau
show
Accommodation : Le Grand Monarque**** - Azay-Le-Rideau
show
Included : luggage transfer,Wine tasting,bedroom, city tax and breakfast the next morning,dinner (no drinks)
Visit the most modern winery of the Loire Valley and learn everything about wine growing.
J-5
From Azay le Rideau to Chinon via Langeais
Ride from Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon for a full day of cycling around castles. Your first stop is in Langeais, where the Chateau was the temporary lair of lawless armed bands during the Hundred Years War. After this Chateau, continue to a different theme, Chateau of Usse, a fairytale castle which is reputed to have inspired the story of Sleeping Beauty and a "must" for all Walt Disney's fans. You will then finish by riding to Chinon, house to a few interesting museums, where you can taste some of the local wine, made famous in the writings of Francois Rabelais.
Loop around Chinon with different options : riding, walking or Adventure Park ! Today the choice is yours ! We offer 3 different options for activities depending on your preferences !
• Hiking : A nice hike of 8 km will take you around Chinon through its vineyards and back.
NOTE : For the HIKE, you should bring a lunch with you if you plan to have a picnic. You have no restaurants or bars on the way.
• Biking : A 44 km ride through sunflower fields and vineyards to take in your last peaceful days in the Loire Valley.
NOTE : For the RIDE, you will find bakeries, restaurants and snacks in the village of Ile Bouchard.
• Adventure Park : for the adventurous ones, you will have the option to ride to the park (34km) where you will enjoy activities in the trees ! Please note that the park is open daily in April, July and August, on weekends in May, June and September, so if you want to go there, make sure today falls on a weekend during those months. Return to Chinon.
NOTE : For the Adventure Park, you will find sandwiches onsite but you can also bring your own picnic. Last departure 3 hours before closing.
J-7
Departure from Chinon
You can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Easy train access back to Paris via Tours. We are happy to help with train info, added nights in Paris, car rental, or other services in France.
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
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."
The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30unisex (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."
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.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Details
Included
ACCOMMODATIONS
- 6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast at each hotel, 1 Dinner (Basic), 2 dinners included (Standard & Upgraded)
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
ACTIVITIES
- Adventure Park Entrance
- Chocolate tasting
- Canoe
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
Other questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
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 Ist’s chateau, and further on, Leonardo da Vinci’s residence, the Clos Lucé. 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 stands apart with its discreet charm, its situation in Rue Rabelais a few paces from the pedestrian shopping streets which criss-cross the old city. and with the large house opening onto the park and terrace overlooking an immense lawn with century-old trees. The swimming pool nestles among rose bushes and cedars.
http://www.leclosdamboise.com/en/
The Pavillon des Lys Hotel is a 4 star Boutique Hotel with 9 bedrooms ans suites. The hotel is located right in the heart of the Royal town of Amboise. Its ideal location, in the city center, right next to the Amboise Castle and the Clos Lucé Castle, the last house of Leonardo da Vinci. The hotel has offer a green garden of 17200 sqft, and courtyards. The rooms and suites are very spacious and several rooms have the Amboise Castle and Saint Hubert Church view, you will sleep under Leonardo da Vinci protection.
http://www.pavillondeslys.com/english/index.php
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 Ist’s chateau, and further on, Leonardo da Vinci’s residence, the Clos Lucé. 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 stands apart with its discreet charm, its situation in Rue Rabelais a few paces from the pedestrian shopping streets which criss-cross the old city. and with the large house opening onto the park and terrace overlooking an immense lawn with century-old trees. The swimming pool nestles among rose bushes and cedars.
http://www.leclosdamboise.com/en/
The Pavillon des Lys Hotel is a 4 star Boutique Hotel with 9 bedrooms ans suites. The hotel is located right in the heart of the Royal town of Amboise. Its ideal location, in the city center, right next to the Amboise Castle and the Clos Lucé Castle, the last house of Leonardo da Vinci. The hotel has offer a green garden of 17200 sqft, and courtyards. The rooms and suites are very spacious and several rooms have the Amboise Castle and Saint Hubert Church view, you will sleep under Leonardo da Vinci protection.
http://www.pavillondeslys.com/english/index.php
The Oceania L'Univers is a historic hotel, marked by the illustrious guests who have stayed here. Facing the city hall, this hotel now welcomes you following a complete refurbishment of the rooms: high ceilings, warm colours and even a balneo bath in some rooms Everything has been done to preserve and emphasise what it is that makes this place so charmingly authentic. Thanks to the new colour scheme, new materials, new furniture and facilities, our hotel provides remarkable comfort to weekend visitors or anyone staying in Tours.
https://www.oceaniahotels.com/
This oasis of tranquillity, hidden away in the countryside, has welcomed guests for rest and relaxation since 1976. The Château de Beaulieu, a 3-star hotel in the heart of the Loire Châteaux region, is well known for its chic and relaxed style. You will be staying in an elegant family residence, where the attentive and personal service will ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible. The hotel boasts elegant rooms, 9 of which are located in the castle itself. They all combine stylish furniture, high-quality fabrics, soft lighting and modern bathrooms. The hotel's chef is proud to introduce you to his refined yet simple cuisine. The restaurant menu is inspired by the daily market, regional products, the herbs grown in the château’s vegetable garden and the rhythm of the seasons. You will find some great French classic dishes on the menu, such as the Sainte Catherine de Fierbois squab with a foie gras crust, and a warm Grand-Marnier soufflé.
http://www.chateaudebeaulieu37.com/uk/index.php
This ancient post house from the 18th century has become a charming boutique hotel. The tuffeau stone – a very clear Loire Valley limestone typical of the Renaissance chateaux – and the exposed beams give to this boutique hotel a special charm. For your comfort, all the rooms have a free Wi-Fi connection, a LCD TV screen with international channels, a personal safe, and air conditioning.. Its courtyard, with its centennial trees, is an oasis of peace.Nested in the centre of the lovely little town of Azay-le-Rideau, and just 150m away from its famous and charming chateau, the hotel is ideally situated to visit the Loire Valley and its greatest castles.
http://www.legrandmonarque.com/
This ancient post house from the 18th century has become a charming boutique hotel. The tuffeau stone – a very clear Loire Valley limestone typical of the Renaissance chateaux – and the exposed beams give to this boutique hotel a special charm. For your comfort, all the rooms have a free Wi-Fi connection, a LCD TV screen with international channels, a personal safe, and air conditioning.. Its courtyard, with its centennial trees, is an oasis of peace.Nested in the centre of the lovely little town of Azay-le-Rideau, and just 150m away from its famous and charming chateau, the hotel is ideally situated to visit the Loire Valley and its greatest castles.
http://www.legrandmonarque.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
France Bike Tours
Europe Bike Tours
Europe Luxury Bike Tours
Epic Cycling
Cycling Challenges
Italy
Spain
Holland
United Kingdom
Portugal
Ireland
Switzerland
Croatia
Baltic States
DURATION 7 days/6 nights
PRICE FROM 1591 €
COLLECTION
Multisport - Standard
DIFFICULTY
CATEGORY
Highlights
To
see
Gastronomy
Wine
Feedbacks
