bicycle tours loire valley france

THE BEST Loire Valley Bike Tours

Bike tours in loire valley.

• Gear Rentals
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Free cancellation
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• A la Francaise! Loire Valley
• Château de Chambord
• Chateau de Villesavin
• Vineyard et Vélo
• Loire Brakes
• Les Pommes Tapées
• Gratien et Meyer
• Chateau de Targé
• Forteresse royale de Chinon
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Vineyard cycle tours in and around Chinon, in the Loire Valley

2. Loire Valley Ebike Tour to Chambord FROM TOURS

3. Loire Valley Ebike Tour to Chambord from Amboise

4. Cycling and Wine in Saumur France

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Tour of a Vineyard, Winery & Cellar with Wine Tasting in Vouvray, Loire Valley

1.5 Hour Guided Tour in Poitiers

• Cycling and Wine in Saumur France
• Vineyard cycle tours in and around Chinon, in the Loire Valley
• Loire Valley Ebike Tour to Chambord FROM TOURS
• Sentiers de France
• 2CV LEGENDE ORGANISATION
• Loire Odyssée

Loire Valley: Bike Tours Information

Multi-Day Tours

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• A typical day
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• Loire Valley
• The lure of the Loire

Loire Valley bike tours

In the heart of Central France lies the Loire Valley, a region with an enchanted landscape of vineyards, fruit orchards, and farmland, lining the banks of the Loire River. The “Garden of France” includes historic towns like Nantes, Angers, and Orleans, rich with world-famous architecture and hundreds of chateaux. This romantic region was often a draw for poets, artists, and writers seeking inspiration.

With many cycle paths, one of the best is the Loire à Vélo, 250 km of carefully planned trails. Bike tours through the region follow dedicated, bike-only paths or country roads with minimal traffic. The landscape consists of flat plains and gentle, rolling hills. At the end of the day you’ll be rewarded with delicious cuisine – fresh-picked fruits and vegetables, or fish caught from the Loire River, to be enjoyed with locally produced wines.

• France bike tours

“We were a family of 12 ranging in age from 11 to 86. It was PERFECT! Wonderful hotels, fantastic food, a beautiful trail, good bikes, short rides each day so we could enjoy the features along the way like the chateaux and the Magic Museum in Blois.”

Learn more:

• Loire Valley bike tour reviews
• Loire Valley Tourism Site

France — You had me at “bonjour”

Loire a velo: orleans to the atlantic.

COUNTRY: France

Self guided from EUR € 1075

Self-guided: Daily: Mar 1 - Oct 31, 2023. Mar 1 - Oct 31, 2024.

Description: Along this route, you can choose programs of 5, 9, or 13 nights. Follow the cycling path "Loire à vélo." The "Loire à Vélo" trail runs through the Centre and Pays de la Loire regions. As of 2008, you are able to cycle through the Anjou, Touraine…

Nature, Villages & Castles of the Loire River Valley

Self guided from EUR € 1180

Self-guided: Daily: Mar 1-Oct 31, 2023. Mar 1-Oct 31, 2024.

Description: This cycling trip leads you along the peaceful Loire River, through the enchanting Sologne Forest, and to numerous historic estates and chateaux. You'll enjoy the short stages, which have been designed to allow you ample time to explore the sites. From…

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Destinations

Cycling tours & bike trips in loire valley.

Explore a wide diversity of bicycle tours through Loire Valley. We have 30 adventures that vary from 5 days to 13 days. With the greatest number of departures in May, this is also the most popular time of the year.

30 Loire Valley bicycle tours with 12 reviews

• Self-Guided Cycling

Cycle the Loire - Nevers to Orléans

• Self-Guided

Loire Valley Castles

• Active Adventure
• Fully Guided

Cycle the Loire Valley

• Personalized

Cycling the Chateaux of the Loire (5 destinations)

Cycling The UNESCO Loire Valley

Cycling The Chateaux Of The Loire (6 destinations)

Cycling The UNESCO Loire Valley - Deluxe

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Cycling the Chateaux of the Loire - Upgraded

Loire Valley Cycle

"I travelled solo on the self guided Loire Valley Cycle. This was my first experience..."

Loire Valley - Amboise Cycling Loops

Loire Valley Castles Deluxe

"Family of Three on self guided 6 day tour of Loire Valley: Great fun with mellow..."

Castles of the Loire Valley - Amboise to Blois

Loire Valley Classic - Villandry to Chambord Castle Tour

Loire valley bike tour reviews, travel styles, other regions in france.

• Southern France (380)
• Northern France (327)
• Provence (109)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees (91)
• Normandy (88)
• Bordeaux & Dordogne (53)
• Pays de la Loire (53)
• French Riviera (39)
• Alsace & Lorraine (37)
• Ile de France (26)
• Burgundy (24)
• Corsica (14)
• Champagne (12)
• Beaujolais (6)
• Brittany (5)

Self-Guided Cycling Tours

• Self-Guided Cycling (13)

Other types in Loire Valley

• Explorer (44)
• Family (35)
• Self-Guided (28)
• Personalized (22)
• Private (22)
• Fully Guided (19)
• Self-Guided Cycling (14)
• River Cruise (13)
• Historical (7)
• Eurovision (5)
• Active Adventure (5)
• 10 Best Cycling Tour Companies 20...
• 10 Amazing Private Bicycle Tours ...
• 10 Best Cycling Tours 2023/2024

International Versions

• Deutsch: Loiretal Fahrradreisen
• Nederlands: Fiets Rondreizen in L...

• Customized biking tour

Loire Valley : 23 cycling tour(s)

4-day family holiday in the heart of the loire valley castles.

• The variety of landscapes at each stage
• Chenonceaux, Amboise, Chaumont sur Loire ... the most elegant castles!
• The possibility to choose between short and long stages

Bike loop around Tours: between castles and "Loire à Vélo" cycling paths

• Stay 2 nights in the heart of the medieval city of Chinon
• Alternate between vineyards and waterways
• The historic treasures of Touraine

Loire à vélo: cycle tour from Saumur to the Atlantic sea

• The Loire wildest landscapes
• Discovery of the nice and peacefull city of Nantes
• After the “sweet Loire Valley”, the nice beaches of Le Croisic !
• Go back up the Loire to the Ocean

« Indre » and « Cher à Vélo »: between hidden treasures and essentials

• 2 nights in Loches to enjoy the superb medieval city
• Cycling routes along the Indre and Cher rivers
• The mix between essential sites and more confidential sites

Cycle tour around Blois and Chambord

• Your hotel located in the heart of the Blois
• The prestigious chateau of Chambord and Cheverny
• The ‘Pack-chateaux ‘BikingFrance’ in option

Family tour on Loire à Vélo: from Tours to Chinon

• Cycling paths appropriate for families
• Rigny-Ussé, the « sleeping-Beauty » chateau
• The medieval town of Chinon
• The château of Langeais with its air of fortified castle

2 days cycling tour: from Blois to Chenonceaux

• The elegancy of the château de Chenonceau spanning the Cher river
• A great range of scenery: Loire river, vineyards and forest
• Immerse yourself in the medieval time discovering the historic cities of Blois and Amboise

From Saumur to Chinon, bike escape off the beaten track

• The discovery of Fontevraud Abbaye and the astonishing chateau of Brézé
• The troglodyte discovery
• A cycling itinerary leading you off the beaten track
• In the heart of the prestigious Chinon and Saumur-Champigny vineyards

Loire à Vélo: cycle tour from Orléans to Tours

• Cycling itineraries on the « Loire à Vélo »
• Magic arrival facing the Château of Chambord
• A route on François 1st and Leonard Da Vinci’s traces

3 days biking in the heart of the greatest Loire Valley castles

• The main châteaux of the Loire Valley: Chambord, Chenonceaux, Cheverny, Chaumont, etc...
• The landscapes’ alternation: the Loire river banks, forest paths and vineyards
• The city of Amboise

3 days biking on Loire a Velo trail from Tours to Saumur

• The chateau of Azay-le-Rideau in its water and greenery setting
• The abbatial church of Candes-Saint-Martin
• Troglodytes and Chinon and Saumur vineyards
• Chinon and Saumur vineyards

Loire à Vélo: bike tour from Nevers to Orléans

• The Canal de Briare and its canal-Bridge, World Heritage Site by UNESCO
• The beautiful landscapes offered by « Loire Natural reserve »
• Discover the « Kilometre Zero » of the « Loire à Vélo »
• The Sancerre wine

A family cycle tour in the Loire Valley

• The petrifying caves and the Villandry Renaissance gardens
• A child ‘discount’ up to -50%
• An easy and accessible to all itinerary

Loire à Vélo: cycle tour from Blois to Tours along the great chateaux

• Discovery of the Loire Valley greatest chateaux: Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau, Amboise!
• A bit of shopping in Tours … while visiting the old town!
• Loire à Vélo cycling paths!

Deluxe bike tour in the Loire Valley chateaux region

• Stay in the greastest charming chateaux-hotels
• The unmissable chateaux of Chambord and Chenonceau
• The wealth of the local gastronomy and Chefs’ talents

5 days on Loire a Velo trails from Blois to Saumur

• The architecturale wealth in every stopover town
• The variety of the Loire wines: Vouvray, Montlouis, Saumur-Champigny, etc...

Family cycling trip from Blois to Amboise

• The easy bike stages, between cycle paths and marked out itineraries
• The visit of chateaux de Chambord, Cheverny and the last home of Leonardo Da Vinci.
• Remember Tintin world at the château de Cheverny
• Enjoy the “natural bathing spot”, entirely environmental

The Loire Valley's greatest chateaux by bike

• Discovery of the most prestigious chateaux: Chambord, Chenonceau and Cheverny
• Varied landscapes between the ‘Loire by bike’, forest and vineyards
• Possibility of canoeing on the Loire and Cher rivers

Family cycling tour in the Loire Chateaux country

• ‘The secrets of Marlinspike’ exhibition in Cheverny
• Discover the chateaux of Chambord and Cheverny

Bike stay between Chambord and Cheverny

• 3 days in the heart of Sologne, between forest and chateaux
• Short stages to Chambord and Cheverny
• For the gourmand: The handmade chocolate factory Max Vauché, nearby your hotel

Bike escapade in the heart of Chambord country

• The elegance and tranquility of your acccommodation, in the heart of a beautiful countryside
• Taste the Cheveny's wines !
• About 3 or 4 bike excursions in varied landscapes: Chambord forest, vineyards and Loire banks

Cycle tour around Amboise

• 4 bike excursions from Amboise, including the unmissable château of Chenonceau !
• Plunge back into the fabulous world of Leonardo Da Vinci
• The outstanding Vouvray vineyards

The hidden treasures of the Loire à Vélo routes, from Tours to Saumur

• A mix between cycling paths and outstanding sideroads
• The elegant chateau d'Azay le Rideau and the surprising château de Brézé
• Montsoreau and Crissay-sur-Manse : ones of the « Most Beautiful Villages of France »
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Self-guided cycling tours in the Loire Valley

Who's cleaning these windows? Imagine a massive outdoor art gallery exclusively devoted to architecture and you'll get a clear idea of what to expect on this tour. Quite simply, it's awe and wonder — manmade style. Chateaux large enough to apply for statehood ornament the entire valley, causing visitors to repeatedly gush "wow," "amazing," and "I'd sure hate to have to clean all of those windows..."

This might be our only tour where a bicycle flat is not viewed with disdain, but rather as a welcomed excuse for stopping and gaping some more at the architectural wonders. The Chateau de Chambord , near Blois, with its 440 rooms and 365 fireplaces, crowns the valley's "You've Got To Be Kidding" list. While the Chateau de Chenonceau comes a close second with its fairy-tale design arching across the Cher River. For grandeur of a different sort, Villandry's Renaissance garden , and Amboise, Leonardo da Vinci's last residence, also rate high on the awe meter.

The valley's emphasis on spectacular also carries over to its cuisine. Fresh trout and salmon, countless varieties of goat cheese, and mushrooms from the Saumur caves (the world's largest mushroom producer) make meals taste like how the chateaux look. And its wines rival those from the Burgundy region making them perfect for toasting to beauty, grandeur, and not being the one responsible for having to clean all of the valley's chateau windows.

In the Loire Valley, we offer self-guided tours that make the most of the virtually traffic-free bike route " La Loire a Velo ." We offer three comprehensive 7 night/8 day tours:

• Between Orleans and Tours
• Between Blois and Angers
• A circular route around Tours

We also offer a 4-night Short Escape . Regardless of the tour you choose, your itinerary will take you to some of the most amazing Chateaux of the Loire Valley .

2023 Loire Valley Tours

Self guided tours for leisure riders.

• Loire Valley
• From Blois to Angers: Fairytale Castles Along the Loire River
• From 1,055 euros | 7n / 8d

• Cycling in the Valley of Kings: Orléans to Tours
• From 1,095 euros | 7n / 8d

• Chateaux and Castles: Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau & Villandry
• From 1,015 euros | 7n / 8d

• Cycling along the Velodyssey from Nantes to La Rochelle
• From 1,125 euros | 7n / 8d

• A Royal Short Escape in the Loire Valley
• From 635 euros | 4n / 5d

• A micro adventure in the Loire Valley: From Tours to Saumur
• From 495 euros | 3n / 4d

• Last Minute

Loire Valley Cycling Tours & Walking Holidays

Destination

Bosnia and herzegovina, czech republic, liechtenstein, netherlands, north macedonia, switzerland, türkiye/turkey, united kingdom, bike & boat, multi-activity, vessels & boats, advanced search.

Majestic chateaux, magnificent gardens, endless vineyards and the graceful sweep of France’s longest river—you’d be hard-pressed to find a more romantic embodiment of French culture, cuisine and landscape than the Loire Valley.

A sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Listed treasure, this is a region of rich history, sumptuous architecture and vibrant culture, and one that’s superbly suited to outdoor adventures.

Cycle past opulent riverfront castles and ramble through royal gardens, historic vineyards and postcard-perfect villages. Cruise the calm reaches of the Loire River, indulge in incredible local food and wine and explore the lavish architecture of the French Renaissance.

Our unique guided and self-guided adventures are designed to bring you the highlights and hidden gems of this spectacular region. Join us as we discover the historic heart of France!

Find your Loire Valley trip

Loire Valley Cycle

Introductory to Moderate

Loire Valley Castles

Introductory

Cycle the Loire - Orléans to the Atlantic Coast

Classic Loire Valley by Bike

Loire Vineyard Trails

Cycle the Loire - Nevers to Orléans

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Essential information, popular activities in loire valley.

Bike & Barge

Renaissance extravagance

Loire à vélo

A Château that spans a river

Wine country

Making the Loire Valley affordable

Trips only include what you need like accommodation, meals, bikes on cycle trips, luggage transfers, maps and route directions on self guided trips and an experienced local guide for group trips, as well as the peace of mind that comes with complete backup and support.

Explore the Loire Valley at your own pace

On self guided trips you can expect to receive up-to-date and well researched route notes and maps, seamless luggage transfers and competitive pricing on all essential services. Many self guided trips also have daily departure dates, allowing you to enjoy the convenience and flexibility a self guided trip offers.

Enjoy flexibility and choices

Cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land or sea - we can help you explore Europe exactly the way you want.

Chateau hotels

Set on large grounds, these large French country houses or castles are often family run and named after the local wine. The building and rooms are often decorated to match the history of the building, complimenting the local food and wine experiences.

Think of it as your floating hotel, where each day you experience a different sunrise and sunset location. Unpacking only once, berths range from two lower or bunk bed style but can be upgraded to larger berths with double beds. The bar and dining area is always a popular hangout at the end of each day’s activity. The crew includes an onboard cook.

Charming local hotels

In the Loire region, we use a range of 2-3 star hotels, often family run. These charming hotels provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose hotel locations that add to your experience.

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Where to Go

Explore the 15th-century Château d’Amboise, which was the residence of King Charles VIII and features Leonardo da Vinci's tomb, royal chambers, gardens and underground passageways

Blois is a picturesque medieval town with a vibrant centre that is best known for its imposing chateau

Discover why the Château Chenonceau is the most photographed chateau in the Loire Valley

Get lost in the extravagant Chateau de Chambord, which boasts over 400 rooms

Sample the wines of Touraine, Chinon and Saumur as you walk or cycle between the region’s famous vineyards

Follow France’s longest river through the Loire Valley on the 800km Loire à vélo cycle route

Visit Orléans, best known as the town Joan of Arc saved from the English

Enjoy local wine as you cruise down France’s longest river on a barge custom built for crusing on the French canals

The months of June to August are busy times with temperatures ranging between 15 - 25 degrees Celsius (59 - 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and sometimes slightly higher.

Time in Loire Valley

France is +2 hours ahead of GMT/UTC

French (official)

In most areas some English will be spoken

International Dialing Code

Electricity in France is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www.schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-countries-list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.

Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.

Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.

We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.

We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.

Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.

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Only a short train ride south of Paris, the Loire Valley is recognized as a world heritage site. Touring this french region, you ride from one amazing castle to another : Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Villandry … to name only a few.

Although, the Loire Valley is best known for its many castles, it also boasts lovely historical towns such as Orléans, Blois, Amboise, Tours, Saumur … picturesque villages, and many vineyards from which the Loire Valley wine ins made. Come and discover this beautiful part of France !

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Loire Valley Castles and Beauval Zoo in family

The Loire Valley in family ! We have designed this trip to be accessible to all. A stay to discover the castles of Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau and...

Loire Valley Secret Castles and Wine

This Loire Valley Cycling Tour was created to take you to another part of the region not covered by other trips, and do it at a reasonable rate. The...

Loire Valley Walking Tour

Easy Loire Valley hiking trip to Chambord, Cheverny, Chaumont Sur Loire, Cheverny, Amboise and Chenonceaux ! The Loire Valley has seen many of France's...

Loire Valley Bike & Canoe Tour

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...

Loire Valley Wine Tour

You discover a large selection of Loire wine on this trip. From Chinon red wine to bubbly Vouvray wine. White and rosé wine from Montlouis, Azay le...

Loire Valley Castles Deluxe

This Loire Valley Cycling Tour -- the luxury hotel option to visit the charming Loire Valley by bicycle -- offers the perfect itinerary for rejuvenating...

Amboise Cycling LOOPS

The Loire Valley, Cher and Indre Rivers are a harmonious combination of non navigated rivers, rich vineyards and vast forests. Discover the landscapes,...

Loire Valley Family Trip : from Tours to Chinon

This stay in the heart of the Loire Valley is ideal for the whole family! Indeed we invite you to explore the Loire and its castles on itineraries...

Chateau de Chambord to Atlantic Coast

This extended bike tour is a picturesque way to travel from Blois along the Loire River all the way to the Atlantic Coast. On the way you will visit the...

Castles of the Loire Valley Classic Tour

This bike tour is a great way to discover castles of the Loire Valley. Start your trip in picturesque Amboise before cycling to the famous Chateau de...

Loire Valley Classic - Villandry to Chambord Castle Tour

This extended bike tour travels around all the famous and breath-taking Loire Valley Castles. You will start in Villandry and its beautiful gardens,...

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REASONS TO DISCOVER LOIRE VALLEY

Loire Valley Castles

There are about 3000 castles in the area! Here are some of the most remarkable :

• Chateau de Chambord – Originally built as a hunting lodge for Francis I, this structure has withstood the test of time. It is one of the  most recognizable châteaux in the world  and the largest, by far, in the Loire Valley. The magnificent building boasts several huge towers, 440 rooms, 84 staircases and an incredible 365 fireplaces. It’s surrounded by a park and a game reserve, complete with red deer for hunting purposes. It is certainly a sight to behold.
• Chateau de Chenonceau – Built on the  Cher River  allowing the chateau’s unique architecture to be reflected in the water is the “Castle of the Lady.” It is nicknamed to honor the different ladies who played a primary role in designing the castle as it stands today, from its exterior appearance to the rooms inside. Renaissance furniture, a vast ensemble of 16th and 17th centuries tapestries and a great number of masterpieces are a few of the treasures of its visit.
• Chateau Chinon – Located on the  Vienne River , the Chateau de Chinon has housed as well as imprisoned many influential French leaders in the past. It was here that Joan of Arc visited the disguised King Charles VII to convince him to build an army to liberate France from England. The Templar Knights carved symbols while incarcerated in the castle’s dungeon, which can still be seen today. The castle is divided by a dry moat into three parts, Fort Saint-Georges to the east, Château de Milieu in the center, and Fort du Coudray to the west.
• Azay-le-Rideau – Recognized as a  French national monument , this castle is one of the earliest French Renaissance chateaux. Azay-le-Rideau is built on an island on the  Indre River . Its foundations rise straight out of the water. You do not want to miss visiting this striking structure.

Chartres and its Cathedral

Chartres’s breathtaking cathedral is considered to be one of the best examples of gothic architecture in the entire world. It is therefore a  UNESCO World Heritage site  and its towers are listed as a French National Monument. Rebuilt on the site of a holy cathedral destroyed by lightning and fire, the  Chartres Cathedral  was designed and erected to honor the sacred relic Sancta Camisa, which miraculously survived fire and destruction unharmed. The cathedral’s magnificent exterior opens to an even more awe-inspiring interior, with its brilliant colors and detailed stained glass windows. Medieval carvings adorn the doors and porches while hand carved sculptures provide testament to the Christian beliefs while drawing a comparison to the close ties that were believed to exist between God and the Kings and Queens who ruled during that time. A walk through the Chartres cathedral is truly a walk through history.

Gardens of Villandry

The gardens surrounding the  Chateau de Villandry  are often referred to as the most beautiful gardens in the world. Among the 15 acres of different gardens featured at Villandry, there is a water garden, vegetable gardens and incredible ornamental flower gardens, all of which are strategically laid out in formal patterns and linked together with low hedges. Give your legs a break from pedaling, while you take a stroll through an assortment of picture-perfect gardens. Like all the castles in the Loire Valley, the Chateau de Villandry is part of what makes the  Loire Valley a World Heritage site  and it is currently open to the public for tours.

Loire Valley Vineyards

A trip to France would not be complete without a visit to the Loire Valley. Perfectly  located nearby Paris , it offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the French countryside with quiet riverbanks and countless vineyards. The Loire Valley is known for its great wine, and  cycling  through the villages and vineyards you must go on a  wine tasting tour ! Although most people come to the Loire Valley to visit the ancient castles, the gorgeous landscape is often the reason why they come back. If you are looking for picturesque towns off the beaten path, the Loire Valley is the perfect region, as it hosts several of the  “Most Beautiful Villages of France”

Amboise and its castle

Amboise was once home of the French royal court and The  Royal castle  became one of the favorite royal residences. It was rebuilt in the 15th and 16th centuries and introduced Italian style and taste into the Loire Valley. Nearby is a smaller castle, Le Clos Lucé, where  Leonardo Da Vinci  lived and worked for a few years. Today it is a museum dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci, and gives good insight into his work and genius in different fields such as art, civil and military engineering, architecture and urban planning, anatomy, botany… Make sure you visit the  “Parc Mini Châteaux”  a 2 ha park with the most significant châteaux of the Loire on a 1/25 scale. Really amazing!

LOIRE VALLEY FOOD AND WINE

As you probably already know, the Loire Valley is  wine country . From the dry white Muscadet, Pouilly Fume and Sancerre wines to the light red Saumur, Bourgueil and Chinon, the Loire Valley wines are famous worldwide. Our  Wine Tour  gives you the opportunity to take part in wine tasting sessions of some of the most delicious French wines. Don’t miss out!

The Loire Valley also offers some fine cuisine. Try the very typical Fricassee d’escargots au Sancerre –  snails cooked in Sancerre wine ! And don’t leave without tasting the goat cheese specialties: the  Crottin de Chavignol  and the Valancay. Served warm on a bed of greens or in a cheese pie, they are delicious.

LOIRE VALLEY GEOGRAPHY

The Loire Valley is located in the center of France, with the  Loire River  symbolically dividing the country in 2. This slow moving river, the longest of France (1012 km), crosses the beautiful regions of  Touraine  (the area around the city of Tours) and Anjou (the area around  Angers ). Both valleys are covered with vineyards producing some of the best wines in France. And they are also home to many castles (more than 3 000!). Among the most famous  Châteaux of the Loire Valley,  our tours will bring you to the Chateau de Chambord, Chateau d’Amboise, Chateau de Chenonceau and many more!

LOIRE VALLEY HISTORY

For centuries, the  Loire River  was used for transportation between the Atlantic and the heart of France. During the Hundred Year’s War, the river marked the boundary between French and English territory. It has always played an important and critical part in the History of France.

Most of the  Loire Valley castles  were not built to protect people against enemies but to illustrate the prosperity of France. Indeed, it is in the Loire Valley that the king Francois Ist (1515-1547) and his court chose to build castles to be able to lead a life-style inspired by the new humanist values of the Renaissance and to celebrate beauty, luxury and refinement.

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Destinations

Cycle routes.

Loire Valley bike trip

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20 trip(s) match your search:

A long week-end of holidays in the Loire Valley

Cycle amongst the Loire valley châteaux from Blois to Tours

A cycling week from Tours to Saumur: our favorite in the Loire

A 4-day escape between Tours and Saumur (canoe+bike)

A cycling week in family from Blois to Amboise

Bike weekend around Chambord - Loire Valley

An authentic cycle tour around Amboise  

Cycling in the Loire Valley from Blois to Saumur

*Luxury trip* Cycling the Loire Valley and its vineyards

*Luxury trip* Bike the Loire Valley and experience the French luxury

2-week bike trip in the Loire Valley, from Orléans to the ocean

A 3-days bike tour around Blois and the Loire valley

• Cycling holiday Loire Valley, Orléans-Tours

Loire Valley, Orléans-Tours

Castles, vineyards & gardens.

• 36 km average per day
• Arrival Orléans
• Departure Tours
• Quiet routes in a beautiful landscape
• Castles, wines and french delicatessens
• Château of Chambord
• Orléans & Tours
• Self-Guided Tour
• Individual Tour
• Bike & Hotel
• Cycling level 2

Did you know that the Loire is the only large river in Western Europe that still follows its natural course? Not canalised or dammed, but a true winding river, with sandbanks, rapids — a natural habitat. This makes for a varied and intimate landscape that justly bears the name of The Garden of France.

Follow the cycling path ‘Loire à vélo’ from Orléans to Tours. You will ride on well-signposted cycle paths and minor roads with little traffic. And of course, you will ride along this string of jewels of beautiful castles, abbeys, historical towns and picturesque villages. Discover the royal valley by longing the majestic river from Orléans to Tours where thousands of treasures are waiting for you: historical heritage and testimony with numerous chateaux, wonderful landscapes of different natural areas, regional gastronomy delights.

Daily program

Discover Orléans, the “City of Art and History” liberated in 1429 by Joan of Arc from the English siege.

Longing the wild river banks for a stage in calm and serenity through the charming and very flowered city of Beaugency.

Leave Beaugency by the river banks passing via the prestigious château of Chambord: the widest Château of the Loire Valley masterpiece of the Renaissance period. Then, follow the direction of Blois which presents a rich historical heritage with the château offering a brilliant illustration of the evolution of French architecture from the middle Ages to the 17th century.

Follow the small countryside routes until the chateau of Chaumont overlooking the Loire River, before reaching Amboise and its royal chateau from 15th –16th century. Few streets further on, is the last home of Leonardo Da Vinci: Manorhouse of ‘Clos Lucé’.

Ride through the vineyards of Montlouis to discover the numerous cellars that offer sweet white or sparkling wines. Then, enjoy the lovely chateau of la Bourdaisière, birthplace of Gabrielle d’Estrées, the favourite of King Henri IV. Continue to the heart of the city of Tours to discover the old quarters sheltering the famous 'Place Plumereau' and its half-timbered houses.

Your cycling holiday ends today. There is a good train connection back to the airport from the railwaystation in Tour.

Along the Loire

A cycle route has been constructed along the Loire. This route is sign-posted. Cycletours has selected the most beautiful part for you to explore. The distances are never long, so you have enough time to visit a castle along the way.

What else do you need to know?

Prices for 2023

Per person in a double room  category Standard

• Every day from March 1 - October 31  € 675,-

Surcharge single room  € 269,- Half board  € 225,-

Per person in a double room  category Superior

• Every day from March 1 - October 31  € 815,-

Surcharge single room  € 415,- Half board  € 265,-

Per person in a double room  category Deluxe

• Every day from March 1 - October 31  € 1.116,-

Surcharge single room  € 614,- Half board  € 275,-

For all categories Supplement solo-traveller € 195,- "Chateaux" package, p.p. € 74,-

Extra night in Orléans (incl. Breakfast) Per person in a double room  category Standard March - October  € 75,- Surcharge single room  € 55,-

Per person in a double room  category Superior March - October  € 94,- Surcharge single room  € 75,-

Per person in a double room  category Deluxe March - October  € 155,- Surcharge single room  € 115,-

Extra night in Tours (incl. Breakfast) Per person in a double room  category Standard March - October  € 69,- Surcharge single room  € 55,-

Per person in a double room  category Superior March - October  € 89,- Surcharge single room  € 55,-

Per person in a double room  category Deluxe March - October  € 129,- Surcharge single room  € 119,-

Rental bikes:

• Hybrid  € 99,-
• E-bike  € 177,-

Supplements: Reservation costs  € 20,-  per booking Contribution  Dutch Guarantee Fund   € 5,-  per person (Insolvency Protection)

• 5 Nights with breakfast in double room with shower&toilet in 2/3-star hotels (standard version) or in 3- or 4-star hotels (Superior version) or in mostly 4- star hotels (DeLuxe version)
• Transport of luggage between hotels
• 1x travel folder (per room) including coloured maps
• Detailed route directions (FR/EN/DE) and tourist brochures
• GPS-tracks (on request only)

Not included

• Reservation costs € 20,-
• Contribution  Dutch Guarantee Fund   € 5,-  per person (Insolvency Protection)
• Half board (5 dinners; drinks excl.), surcharge
• Drinks, lunches, and personal expenses
• Entrance fees to the monuments
• ‘Chateaux’ package, surcharge (including: see under ‘Special details’)
• Rental bike, helmet included
• Personal bike transfer
• Train ticket for return transfer
• Luggage transportation on last day
• Personal insurance/ Cancellation insurance

Special details

• Operated by local partner
• Please take good notice of our  Terms & Conditions
• No bike insurance available for this tour
• The program is subject to change without notice
• ‘Chateaux package includes entrance fees to: Château de Meung sur Loire; Domaine de Chambord (château + gardens); Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire (château + Garden Festival); Park Leonardo Da Vinci in Amboise

From Paris, take highway A10 Exit «Orléans centre». For more detail, do not hesitate to visit: goo.gl/maps/QXqlS GPS point : N 47°89’79” / E 1°89’24”

About your personal car: Possibility to park the car during your trip at the hotel (guarded & closed car park): 7 € per night NB : to reach the hotel at the end of the tour, you have to go by train From Angers station to Orléans station. For more information, do not hesitate to visit: www.sncf.fr

From Paris Austerlitz station Arrival Orléans station (town centre). For more information, visit : www.sncf.fr From Orléans station: by taxi : about 15€/20 € (day) / 20€/26€ (nights, weekend and bank holidays) by Bus : take line n°10 until Quai St Laurent (about 25 min) by Tramway : take line Tram A direction « Hôpital de La Source » and go down at the station «Quai Royale Châtelet » (about 9 min), then reach by foot « Quai St Laurent » (about 5 min).

From Roissy CDG airport : Roissy Charles de Gaulle T.2 train station > St Pierre des Corps train station > Orléans train station. From Orly airport or Beauvais airport: taxi or shuttle transfer : Austerlitz train station > Orléans train station. From Tours airport: taxi or shuttle transfer : Tours train station > Orléans train station. From Nantes airport: taxi or shuttle transfer : Nantes train station > Orléans train station.

(Please note that the hotels listed are only examples and are subject to change. You will find your final hotel in the hotel list, which you will receive before departure)

Escale Oceania Orléans sits along the banks of the River Loire. It offers modern en suite rooms with a shower, a TV, and a 24-hour front desk. A full buffet breakfast is served provided every morning. and can be served in your room. There is also a cosy lounge bar. 

Located in the historic centre of Orléans, this 3-star hotel is just a 5-minute walk from the Maison de Jeanne d’Arc.  With a modern decoration, the soundproofed guest rooms all have air conditioning. You can enjoy a drink at the bar in the Hôtel d'Orléans. 

Situated on the banks of the Loire River, Empreinte Hotel & Spa is offering a range of wellness facilities and a bar. A buffet breakfast, including sweet, savoury items and local products is served every morning in the breakfast room.

It is set in traditional settings fitted with classic furnishings and modern facilities. La Tonnellerie is a former wine-merchant's house located in a picturesque village near Beaugency. 

L'écu de Bretagne is situated in the quiet medieval village of Beaugency. It features an outdoor, heated swimming pool, and WiFi is free of charge in the entire property. The air-conditioned rooms all have en suite facilities with free toiletries. 

Located in Blois, 400 m from Blois Castle, Hôtel Restaurant Le Monarque boasts a restaurant and a bar. Each room is equipped with a private bathroom with a hairdryer.  A buffet breakfast including cold meats, eggs and hot drinks is served every morning.

Best Western Blois Château is located 5 minutes from Blois city centre and 150 m from Blois SNCF train station. Each air-conditioned rooms is equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, satellite TV and a fully equipped private bathroom. All rooms have access to the executive lounge.

Mercure Blois Centre is located 500 m from Blois city centre. Guests have access to the fitness centre and wellness area, including indoor heated pool, a sauna, steam room and hot tub. All the air-conditioned rooms have a seating area and a courtesy tray with tea and coffee are also provided.

The Originals Boutique, Hôtel Chaptal, Amboise (Inter-Hotel) is located in the city centre of Amboise, near the Clos Lucé and Amboise castles, and the Loire River. It offers free WiFi access. All the rooms are soundproofed and air-conditoned. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast in the dining room every morning.

This hotel is just 50 m from Château d’Amboise. It offers a terrace and a lounge bar and restaurant. Each of the soundproofed guest rooms at Hotel Bellevue is equipped with free WiFi access. Breakfast including fresh fruit, bread and cakes is served in the spacious breakfast room or on the terrace on sunny mornings. 

Hotel Le Manoir Saint Thomas is located near the Château d'Amboise. It offers a large outdoor swimming pool with a terrace and sun beds, and a free bottle of Liqueur de Fraises. The rooms are air-conditioned and feature a traditional decoration.

The Citôtel Criden is close to the TGV railway station, the Vinci convention centre, historical areas. The hotel has 33 spacious rooms, all with free Wi-Fi access and a private bathroom. You can enjoy a drink in the bar and lounge. A buffet breakfast is prepared every morning.

Best Western Plus l'Artist Hotel is a 10-minute walk from the Old City centre and 150 m from the train station. A full breakfast buffet is served daily. Guests are invited to relax in the hotel's bar or on the terrace.

Hotel L'Univers Tours features accommodation with a bar, private parking, a spa and wellness centre and a terrace. Among the facilities of this property are a bistro-style restaurant. Guests are welcome to take advantage of a Turkish bath and a hot tub.

All rental bikes are equipped with 1 rear pannier (saddlebags 40l.), 1 front pannier with holder, 1 repair kit, 1 pump, 1 lock, 1 counter and 1 helmet.

By this tours you can rent the following bikes:

Local hybrid 21-gears 10 days

Local electric bike 9-gears 10 days

Your room is available from 3 p.m. on the day of arrival. Upon check in, you receive the following items: – hotel vouchers for the other hotels – luggage stickers – the detailed itinerary of your trip day by day and colour maps – tourist information about the area, cities and different sites you will be able to visit along your stages – some information leaflets about the area.

Your stay is based on bed & breakfast. Normally breakfast is served between 7.30 a.m. and 9.30 a.m.

No lunch is included. As you will ride through villages where you could meet shops (butcher, baker, grocer’s shop, restaurants…) where to buy for your picnic.In your itinerary, you will see notes ‘Food & drinks’ which means that you will be able to meet shops on these places. If any notes are mentioned on one stage, you will have to look for food before leaving (some hotels propose picnic).

Also, keep in mind that generally, in small villages, shops are closed on Sundays and Mondays. This is why we suggest you have always some snacks with you!

Luggage transport

Please leave your luggage for the luggage transfer (1 suitcase or large bag per person) before 9.45 a.m. at the reception (do not forget to use the luggage tags). Usually you’ll find your luggage from 4 p.m. in the next hotel but at least at 5 p.m. Do not leave any securities or cash in your luggage.

For a successful cycling holiday it is necessary to have a good bike. If you bring your own bicycle check it carefully before departure. Pay special attention to tires, brakes and gears. If you bring your own bike don’t forget to bring a repair kit with you. You can leave your bike in the therefore intended place in the garage. Don’t forget to bring comfortable cycle clothing. Since 2008 you are obliged to wear a safety vest when you’re cycling in France outside the city area after sunset or at low visibility.

The rental bicycles can be requested at the hotel reception upon arrival. The 21-speed bicycles come with a map holder, panniers, lock, repair kit and pump, counter, bike helmet and safety vest. You don’t have to pay a surety but you’re personally responsible for your rental bike in case of damage or theft.

Itinerary, maps and information concerning this trip you will receive upon arrival. If there are any mistakes in the descriptions please inform so we can correct these for future guests.

We advise you to wear comfortable shoes and various layers of practical clothing to be prepared for sudden changes of climate and temperature; don’t forget a K-Way or a poncho, both indispensable in the event of rain, besides a light jacket for cold days and evenings. Sunglasses, a hat, protective suntan cream and insect repellent sprays are important, especially in summer. Cycling trousers and gloves are advisable but not essential. Also remember to bring a first aid kit with you.

Related tours

Loire valley, orléans-angers.

Follow the cycling path ‘Loire à vélo’

• Routes along the Loire river
• Castles, wines and delicatesses
• Garden of Villandry
• Saumur, Chinon & Fontevraud

Loire Valley, Tours to Angers

Cycling along the Loire, the garden of France

• Castles & Vineyards
• ‘Sleeping Beauty’ chateau
• Medieval city of Chinon
• Abbey of Fontevraud

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LOIRE VALLEY TRAVEL

Destination management company for tour operators who want to operate in france.

Loire Valley Travel is the leading French company offering bicycle tours in France for 30 years and cooperate with more 50 Tour-Operators all over the world.

We are organizing “self-guided” cycling tour packages in Loire Valley and in a large number of French regions, making its exclusive skills available to your customers.

We can also customize our self-guided packages to meet the travel needs of leisure or corporate groups.

We have a large experience of cycling tours for individuals and groups, which concerns the production and selling of these tours.

2 rue Jean Moulin

41000 Blois, France

[email protected]

​Tél : 33 (0)2 54 78 62 52

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