The Loire by bike - Deluxe
The discovery of the Loire in its most beautiful hotels
© Le Relais de Chambord
© Le Domaine des Hauts de Loire
© Le Manoir Les Minimes
© Le Relais de Chambord
© Le Domaine des Hauts de Loire
© Le Domaine des Hauts de Loire
© Le Domaine des Hauts de Loire
© Le Domaine des Hauts de Loire
© Le Domaine des Hauts de Loire
© Le Relais de Chambord
Highlights
The largest castles and royal estates in Europe: Chambord, Chaumont sur Loire, Chenonceau
The Château de Nitray and its wine estate
The beautiful cities of Blois and Tours
The city of Amboise and Clos Lucé, laboratory of Leonardo da Vinci
Picturesque villages by the river
The Tourraine vineyard: Montlouis
From Chambord to Tours, discovering the most beautiful residences of the Renaissance
Discover the "Valley of the Kings" and the wine-growing landscapes of Touraine, thanks to its network of important cycle paths. Ride from town to town and from castle to castle and discover the richness of this natural and architectural heritage.
This trip is a daydream. You’ll stay in exceptional locations, specially chosen to guarantee a change of scenery and relaxation. Fall asleep at night in a comfortable château, hunting lodge or charming hotel, all reflecting the architectural excellence of the Loire Valley. In the heart of these royal estates, you will enjoy the services of your hotel (swimming pool, spa, treatments…) and the local and gourmet cuisine. On your last night, you’ll fall asleep facing the Château de Chambord.
Our extensive network of cycle routes offers cyclists a safe, comfortable and relaxing journey. From architectural wonders to vineyards, hop on your bike and ride through the Land of Kings. You’ll cycle through some of the Loire’s most beautiful scenery in an unspoilt natural environment. Starting in Tours, you’ll step back in time as you pass through the gates of the many magnificent Loire castles along the way: Blois, Cheverny, Chenonceau, Amboise, to name only the most majestic. And finally, Chambord, a masterpiece of the Renaissance.
In Chaumont sur Loire, get away in front of the gardens and contemplate the various landscape creations. Unmissable, the city of Tours bears witness to a flourishing past. You will find a warm and gourmet atmosphere. Surrounded by renowned vineyards and qualified as an international city of gastronomy, awaken your taste buds with local specialties.
The city of Tours has a flourishing past that cannot be ignored. You’ll find a warm, gourmet atmosphere here. Surrounded by famous century-old vineyards, the international city of gastronomy invites you to awaken your taste buds with its many local specialties. At Chaumont-sur-Loire, escape to the gardens and contemplate the various landscape creations.
If you’re a lover of French elegance, this is the trip for you. Get ready to experience history in the country’s richest valley.
Easy or 
Leisure or 
Fit From TOURS to MONTBAZON 60km 295m 
Starting from Tours, you leave the Loire to cycle towards the Indre River. Along the way, let yourself be surprised by the Villandry Castle, immersing yourself in the heart of the 16th century. Departing from Villandry, pedal through vineyards and forests to reach Azay le Rideau along the banks of the Indre.
A subtle blend of French traditions and innovative Italian-inspired décor, Azay le Rideau stands as an icon of the new architectural art of the Val-de-Loire in the 16th century. Its landscaped park, designed in the second half of the 19th century, provides it with a genuine natural setting.
Resume your journey from Azay le Rideau; your route takes the small road of the mills to conclude your stage in Montbazon. Take the time to visit the domain of the formidable Count of Anjou, Foulques Nerra, who overlooks the Indre Valley from the heights of his spur.
From MONTBAZON to AMBOISE, via les bords de l'Indre et du Cher 40km 151m
From Montbazon, follow the enchanting meanders of the Indre to the picturesque banks of the Cher. Cycle through bucolic landscapes, discovering the natural beauty that lines these two majestic rivers. Along the way, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of the villages dotting the banks.
Take a break in Montlouis, a village nestled in the heart of the renowned vineyards of the region. Explore the slopes and savor locally renowned wines. The vineyards of Montlouis add a delightful touch to your itinerary, offering an unforgettable tasting experience.
Your journey eventually leads you to Amboise, a city steeped in history and culture. Immerse yourself in the artistic and architectural effervescence of the region, with the backdrop of the Amboise Castle. Wander through medieval alleys, indulge in delicate cuisine at local cafes, and let yourself be immersed in the unique atmosphere of this historic city.
FROM AMBOISE, CHENONCEAUX LOOP 37km 208m
Leave the Loire riverbanks behind and head south. When you arrive in Chenonceaux, take the time to enjoy its famous eponymous castle built in 1513, one of the most beautiful in the Loire Valley. One of its original features is its atypical construction on the Cher river which makes it similar to a bridge. Head back to the royal city of Amboise.
- For a few more km 61km 316m
After your visit to the Chenonceau castle, enjoy a few more kilometers on your way to the authentic medieval town of Montrichard. There is even a beach in the summer if you want to take a dip. Return to Amboise by small country roads.
From AMBOISE to ONZAIN 22km 131m
The cycle route offers you a two-wheeled stroll through vineyards and along the banks of the Loire.
On the Loire à Vélo route, this day has been planned a bit shorter to allow you to fully enjoy two magnificent Loire Valley castles.
Before setting off, take advantage of the royal city of Amboise, the town of Leonardo da Vinci. His castle, the Clos Lucé, is his final residence. More imposing, the royal castle bears witness to the city’s defensive past with its strategic position, overlooking the river. This characterful city provides an opportunity to leave your bike for delightful walks, exploring its alleys or quays.
Then, on the route, garden enthusiasts can stop at the Chaumont-sur-Loire estate to enjoy the International Garden Festival, a rather unique annual event (Plan on a minimum of 3 hours for a complete visit of the estate, or 5 hours if you want to take the time to explore everything, including the castle, exhibitions, and garden festival).
From ONZAIN to CHAMBORD 46km 188m
Your itinerary unfolds as you trace the majestic Loire, guiding you to the royal city of Blois. From the river’s left bank, marvel at the elegant silhouette of the stone Tuffeau houses with slate roofs in Blois. Take advantage of lunchtime to explore the city and its castle, steeped in history.
The highlight of your getaway is approaching: the magnificent Château de Chambord. Take the time to absorb the grandeur of this architectural gem, perhaps from a restaurant or café terrace, for a truly regal pause. If you’ve arrived early enough, round off your day with a visit to the castle.
- For a few more km 57km 257m
Cycle along the majestic Loire and veer off your route towards the charming village of Cheverny.
Explore the vast green estates surrounding the architectural masterpiece of Cheverny Castle, the first castle opened to the public in 1922.
What makes this stop even more special is the dedicated Tintin exhibition at the heart of the castle.
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Tintin and his companions, with an exhibition tracing the history of this iconic comic book.
After exploring Cheverny and its unique exhibition, get back on the road to reach the imposing Château de Chambord and conclude your cycling journey of the day in style.
CHAMBORD
After breakfast, your stay comes to an end. If you haven’t had the time yet, don’t miss the opportunity to discover Chambord’s secrets by daylight.
Deluxe range
For an exceptional stay you enter some of the best residences, castles and mansions and sleep in princes and duchesses’ rooms.
Starting from 2180€/participant in Self Guided option | See detailed prices
Price includes
- Accommodation: 6 nights in a Double room
- 6 breakfasts
- 2 dinners
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 24/7
- Access to our exclusive travel application to follow your route, inform you about places of interest, restaurants, facilitate your assistance in case of emergency, find all your travel documents and our practical advice.
- Application fee
- Taxes
- The itinerary trackable on the following supports:
- Loan of a Bicycle GPS uploaded with full itinerary of the trip
- Cycling practical guide including maps & restaurant recommendations for lunch & dinner
- Day 1 : A personalized greeting with our team at the beginning of the trip to receive your travel documents
Price does not include
- bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Drinks, visits & other personal expenses
Homemade and fully tested itineraries
- Routes selected for their cycling and touristic interest entirely tested and away from traffic
- Accomodations selected for their hospitality, atmosphere, services and quality meals
- A flexible organisation to suit you needs and wishes: You choose the date you want to you leave on! We check the availability of each accomodation to make sure it is possible.
Close assistance
- One of our guides greets you on your first day. He will hand out all the needed documents for the trip (hotel vouchers, maps of the area,GPS, practical guide), get you settled on your bikes (for rental bikes).
- Phone assistance, you can reach the Abicyclette team whenever you need
- A Luggage transfer service which respects your hours of rest (we pick them up after 10:00 and deliver them before 16:00)
Follow your itinerary anyway you like – modern, practical, traditional
- We loan you a GPS so that you can easily follow your itinerary without having to look for your way around (bike support included)
- A practical cycling guide with all the useful information (addresses, highlights for the day, topo maps, and touristic information)
You can also
- Rent a high end quality bike for real comfort, cycling pleasure and reliability a long trip requires.
- Suscribe to a Cancelation or Multi Risk insurance policy which cover you in case something unexpected comes up.
On our guided tours (for groups on demand), we accompany you every step of the way
- One of our state qualified instructor and professional cycling guide accompanies you every step of the way
- Full board (all meals covered unless asked otherwise)
- A picnic buffet set up for lunch with a wide choice of fresh and local produce
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Touring bikeAn upright and easy going position Mixed aluminum frame, telescopic fork. Straight handlebars. Disc brakes. Transmission Shimano 24 to 30 speeds. Supplied equipment per bike
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EbikeWith an autonomy of almost 120km, cycling has never been so easy! Supplied equipment per bike
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Children BikeRecommended bike size (to be confirmed when booking) :
Supplied equipment per bike
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Trekking bikeA layed out and dynamic position Mixed aluminum frame, telescopic fork. Straight handlebars. Disc brakes. Transmission Shimano 24 to 30 speeds. Supplied equipment per bike
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Bike trailerThule Chariot Cross 2 Supplied equipment per bike
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Getting here
Departure city : TOURS
Coming by car
- at 2h30 from PARIS
- at 3h30 from BORDEAUX
- at 4h30 from LYON
Parking*
- Interparking Palais Jaurès – TOURS
- Parking Champ Girault – TOURS
- Parking Vinci Gare – TOURS
Coming by train
- Tours train station - 1h30 from Paris
- Saint Pierre des Corps train station - 1h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Tours airport
Arrival city : CHAMBORD
Coming by car
- at 2h15 from PARIS
- at 4h15 from BORDEAUX
- at 4h30 from LYON
Coming by train
- Blois train station - 2h30 from Paris
- Saint Pierre des Corps train station - 1h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Tours airport
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
How to get back to the starting point
- By train from Blois to Tours in 35min (hotline)
- Return by car in 1h to your starting point
- Private shuttle: see detailed fares or contact us
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
Duration 7 days and 6 nights
Level Easy ou Leisure ou Fit
Departure date From March 15th to November 8th
Destination
Loire Valley
Themes Greenways & Canals
Heritage
Electric bike trips
Fine wine & Dining
See detailed prices
Personalized service 
Expert
TOURS
Arrival on your own and check in to your hotel. Orientation with our guide today. Take the time to visit the cathedral or the “guinguette”, a bar on the bank of the river with a lively atmosphere.
Meeting with our local guide
Before your first ride, meet our local guide at your departure point. This is the perfect time to catch up on the latest practical advice, find out about the addresses and experiences you shouldn’t miss, answer any questions you may have, make the final adjustments to your bike and get your trip off to the best possible start.