3-day bike getaway in the Loire Valley
- From 259 € / pers.
- 3 days / 2 nights (3 days of biking)
- From April to October
- Level: rather easy
- Average: 43 km/day
- Electric bicycle available
- Luggage transfers included
Highlights :
- The numerous royal castles, which you can almost all visit
- Blois, Amboise, or Tours, historical cities as typical as charming, nestled along the Loire River
- A route following the course of the majestic Loire, known as the last wild river in Europe
- An easy route, alternating between small country roads and greenways
Highlights :
- The numerous royal castles, which you can almost all visit
- Blois, Amboise, or Tours, historical cities as typical as charming, nestled along the Loire River
- A route following the course of the majestic Loire, known as the last wild river in Europe.
- An easy route, alternating between small country roads and greenways
From 259 € / pers.
- 3 days / 2 nights (3 days of biking)
- From April to October
- Level: rather easy
- Average: 43 km/day
- Electric bicycle available
- Luggage transfers included
THE LOIRE VALLEY CHÂTEAUX BY BIKE
Set off on an unforgettable cycling adventure through the heart of the most majestic Loire Valley châteaux. This unique experience will introduce you to the region that, during the Renaissance, became the cherished home of the kingdom’s greatest monarchs.
For a few days, step into the shoes of the iconic King François I (or his royal consort—your choice!) and travel from château to château on your trusty modern-day steed. Your favourite residences, including Chambord, Chaumont-sur-Loire and Chenonceau, will punctuate Your Majesty’s route along the way. You will meet your subjects in the historic towns of Blois and Amboise, beautifully nestled on the hillsides overlooking the Loire. The widespread use of tuffeau stone in local architecture gives them a truly romantic atmosphere, making them royally beautiful.
Between these highlights, you will wander through delightfully pastoral landscapes, mostly along greenways and quiet country roads. From time to time, you will also follow what is known as the royal river, which—despite being the region’s backbone—has retained its wild character. A few wine cellars will also tempt you along the way, inviting you to sample the finest wines of Touraine.
And your luggage? No need to worry—your loyal subjects will transfer it from one accommodation to the next. All you have to do is pedal and enjoy the scenery, like a true monarch.
There is no doubt that you will return refreshed from this royal escape, with the feeling that this corner of France is a perfect illustration of the very best it has to offer. So, saddle up, Your Majesty! The Loire Valley awaits your distinguished presence.
YOUR 3-DAY ITINERARY
Whether for a long weekend or a midweek break, this short cycling escape in the heart of the Loire Valley takes you to the châteaux of Chambord, Chaumont-sur-Loire and Chenonceau in a single circuit. Each stage allows enough time to visit the château you encounter along the way without rushing.
If you would like a tailor-made itinerary, do not hesitate to contact us—we will be happy to create an offer suited to your needs.
Enjoy your trip!
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
This 3-day escape is primarily intended for those living near the Loire Valley (Paris, Nantes, etc.), as the arrival day also includes the first cycling stage, and a 43 km stage is also planned for the final day. If you are travelling from further afield, we recommend adding an extra night in Blois at the start and in Amboise at the end of your trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Blois and loop to Chambord
43 km | 
+140 m | ⏱︎ 3h24
Your adventure begins in Blois, the very essence of a French Renaissance town. The charm of its narrow streets, white-stone houses, small squares overlooking the river, and its impressive royal château make it a perfect postcard of what a typical French town of the period looked like.
This first day’s ride takes you to the Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of the French Renaissance and undoubtedly the most extravagant of the Loire châteaux. Surrounded by vast game-filled forests—once a renowned hunting ground—the immense royal building suddenly appears, standing majestically amidst formal French gardens. With its famous double-helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci, its towers, chimneys, and forest of dormer windows and lanterns, it is truly unique and offers a spectacular sight. Inside, you will discover richly decorated rooms reflecting former royal grandeur, before enjoying the view from the rooftop!
On the way back, you rejoin the Loire at St-Dyé-sur-Loire, and from there follow its banks all the way back to Blois.
🚲 Longer option (50 km | Elevation gain: 160 m | ⏱︎ 3h56)
Those wishing to extend the ride can take an additional detour by following the river upstream to Muides-sur-Loire, where they can cross the bridge and return to Blois along the opposite bank.
Day 2: Blois - Amboise
44 km | +230 m | ⏱︎ 3h40
You leave Blois following the river downstream towards Chaumont-sur-Loire, an idyllic riverside village in the shadow of its impressive château.
The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is renowned for its International Garden Festival. The gardens, which change theme each year, are a hub of creativity and innovation, attracting designers from around the world.
You then enter the Touraine wine region before reaching your destination for the day: the royal town of Amboise. Its cobbled streets, traditional houses and colourful local markets will once again transport you back in time. Amboise also lives in the shadow of its château, which overlooks the river and offers superb views.
The town is also home to the Clos Lucé, the final residence of Leonardo da Vinci, now a museum dedicated to his work.
This visit is a great introduction to the wines of Touraine: it not only presents the cellar but also teaches you about wine history and aromas, followed by a short oenology session (including a tasting, of course!).
Day 3: Loop to Chenonceaux
43 km | +210 m | ⏱︎ 3h15
Today you head towards the Cher Valley to discover the Château de Chenonceau, which spans the river with remarkable elegance—often described as distinctly feminine. The main residence of Diane de Poitiers and later Catherine de’ Medici, the “Ladies’ Château” was largely designed by the women who lived there. Beyond its exterior beauty, its gardens and furnished interiors are equally worth the visit.
End of the trip upon your return to Amboise.
💡 To return to Blois (if needed), you can either take a regional train (approx. 20 minutes) or opt for a private transfer.
💡 If you have opted for rental bikes, you can return them to our partner in Amboise before departure.
ACCOMMODATION
Whatever level of comfort you choose, we favour authentic, human-scale accommodation that offers comfort, friendliness and a sense of wellbeing. We also ensure they are well located: easily accessible by bike and, whenever possible, close to amenities and points of interest.
AVAILABLE COMFORT LEVELS
2/3 ★ hotels or equivalent guesthouses
Simple yet welcoming accommodation, selected for its hospitality and location.
3 ★ hotels or charming guesthouses
A selection of addresses combining modern comfort and authenticity.
4 ★ hotels or characterful guesthouses
Accommodation combining high levels of comfort with premium services.
Photos are provided as examples to illustrate the type of accommodation in each category.
Always included:
- Breakfast
- Private bathroom
- Bike storage
- Restaurant(s) within walking distance
- Convenient location
CHOICE OF BIKE
Whether you choose a rental bike or bring your own, it is essential to have a bike suited both to the route and to your own needs.
RENTAL BIKES
We offer high-quality trekking bikes and/or electric bikes, equipped with all essential accessories. Child equipment is also available.
Trekking Bikes (VTC)
Bikes from the brand Arcade, Escape model (or similar). With 21 gears and an aluminium frame, they allow you to handle the few small hills without too much effort. The men’s model has a higher frame.
Electric Bikes (E-bike)
Bikes from the brand Arcade or Vélo de Ville (German brand) equipped with a 400 Wh battery (if towing a child, models with a 500 Wh battery are used), providing more than enough range.
Child Trailers
The route is also suitable for child trailers, which we also offer for hire. They can accommodate up to 2 young children.
Children’s Bikes
For children not yet full-sized, it is possible to hire children’s bikes. Various sizes are available.
Follow Bikes
If your children are not yet used to long rides, the best solution is a follow bike, which can be attached to the adult bike at any time. The attachment system (photo below) is included with the follow bike.
Photos for reference only. Bikes are subject to availability.
Included accessories:
- Smartphone holder (1 per bike)
- Waterproof rear bag, 20 L (1 per bike)
- Small handlebar bag, 5 L (1 per bike)
- Lock
- Repair kit
- Helmet(s) on request
IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE
Before departure, carefully check the condition of your bike: brakes, tyres, cogs, derailleur, chain...
You may be far from help in case of a mechanical problem!
Which bikes are suitable?
- Trekking bike (VTC)
- Mountain bike (MTB)
- Gravel
- E-bike with good range.
- Road bike
- City bike
💡 As the route includes some compact gravel sections, avoid tyres that are too narrow or too smooth. MTB tyres are not necessary.
LEVEL: RATHER EASY
➡️ Stages are moderately long (around 3 to 4 hours of cycling per day – max. 5).
This pace suits most people: it combines the pleasure of cycling with sightseeing along the way.
➡️ The Loire Valley has very little elevation, making this route an excellent choice for a first cycling trip. The hills of the Loire and Cher can be slightly steep at times, but the route remains largely accessible to cyclists with occasional experience.
⚡ To fully enjoy the route, even on small climbs, you can opt for an electric bike.
DAILY DISTANCES:
ELEVATION:
TYPE OF PATHS:
The route alternates between cycle paths and small country roads with little or no traffic. Over 80% of the route is paved. The rest of the time, you travel on well-maintained compact gravel paths. No technical difficulty to report.
💡
Our trips prioritise discovery and relaxation over effort.
We adjust stage lengths according to elevation, path type, and points of interest, so that each day remains balanced, enjoyable and flexible.
We also pay great attention to avoiding roads with traffic wherever possible, to provide, in the end, a calm and safe route.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
⏱️ DURATION
3 days and 2 nights, including 3 days of cycling. If coming from afar, it is advisable to add a night in Blois at the start, and possibly in Amboise at the end.
📅 DEPARTURE DAYS
Daily from April to October.
🗺️ TYPE OF ROUTE
Linear.
📍 START AND END POINT
Start: Blois
End: Amboise
🌦️ BEST TIME TO GO?
In spring, temperatures are generally pleasant from April. Gardens of the châteaux are also at their most colourful.
In summer, the weather is usually sunny and warm without being excessive. During heatwaves, cycling can be uncomfortable at the hottest hours, when it is better to take a break or stay cool visiting a château.
The region also enjoys a pleasant autumn, with mild temperatures until late October.
🍽️ MEALS
Breakfasts are included.
Lunch and dinner are at your own discretion.
During the day, you can eat at local restaurants (suggestions in our roadbook) or have a picnic, buying supplies from local shops.
For dinner, there will always be several restaurants within walking distance from your accommodation… unless the hotel has its own!
🧳 BAGGAGE TRANSPORT
Your luggage is transported from one accommodation to the next by one of our providers. You only carry your day bag during cycling stages. A bag is provided with the rental bike.
If you prefer to carry your luggage in panniers, a discount applies.
🚩 ARRIVING ON SITE
BY TRAIN
- From Paris: from Gare d’Austerlitz, 3 direct TER trains/day to Blois-Chambord (approx. 1h20). If bringing your own bike, it can be taken on board free of charge (not dismantled).
- Another direct line serves Blois from the west twice daily, following the Loire: Le Croisic, Nantes, Angers, Saumur, Tours, …
- From other regions, the easiest is via Paris, Orléans, or Tours before boarding a train to Blois.
💡 Blois-Chambord station is right in the town centre.
BY CAR
Our roadbook provides all information on where to leave your car during your stay. Several free options exist in Blois town centre.
🔁 RETURN TO START POINT
Returning to Blois from Amboise is very simple: a TER connects the two towns in 20 minutes, about once per hour.
💡 If you bring your own bikes, they can go on the TER without being dismantled, but we recommend reserving bike tickets in advance, especially on weekends, as the number of bike spaces is limited.
📑 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
To fully enjoy your adventure, we provide practical and easy-to-use materials:
-
A printed roadbook (A5 booklet) prepared by us, including:
- Practical information
- Route description
- All necessary tourist information
- Restaurant suggestions
- Supply points
- Swimming spots
- Cultural info and anecdotes
- List of nearby bike repair shops
A printed map of the route
-
Our navigation app (with your GPS tracks)
- Easy to use (a small tutorial will be sent if needed)
- Satellite navigation (works in airplane mode)
- Customised tracks between each accommodation
- Voice guidance
📞 INDEPENDENCE AND ASSISTANCE
You travel independently (unaccompanied), with 7-day telephone support in case of problems.
🛡️ INSURANCE
To guarantee reimbursement in case of trip cancellation or issues on site, you can take out cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer Annulation) or assistance (CAP Explorer Assistance). Learn more about cancellation and assistance insurance.
Optionally, for those hiring a bike, theft & damage insurance is also available.
🎒 EQUIPMENT TO BRING
A helmet, lock, repair kit, phone holder and waterproof rear bag are the basic equipment. If renting a bike, these are included (helmet on request only).
For extra comfort, we also recommend bringing the following specific accessories:
Rain over-trousers
Lightweight, waterproof, windproof and easy to put on, they protect against rain, splashes and mud. Some models have gaiters covering the shoes as well.
External battery (power bank)
Useful to recharge your phone during the lunch break: navigation is energy-consuming even in airplane mode. Recommended unless your battery is very high capacity.
Estimate €10-20.
Padded cycling shorts or gel saddle cover
Padded shorts improve comfort by absorbing shocks and reducing friction during long rides. Otherwise, use a padded saddle cover.
Water bottle
More practical and durable than disposable bottles. Some keep water fresh for hours thanks to double-wall insulation.
Buff / neck warmer / hat
Outside of summer, mornings can be chilly and you won’t regret bringing them!
PRICES 2026
The price is calculated based on a stay for two in a double/twin room. All prices are per person and subject to availability of the desired room type.| Option | Standard | Comfort | Prestige | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low season | High season | Low season | High season | Low season | High season | |
| Double/twin room | 259 € | 289 € | 319 € | 349 € | 399 € | 429 € |
| Single room supplement | + 100 € | + 100 € | + 100 € | + 100 € | + 100 € | + 100 € |
| Child reductions (in the same room as 2 full-paying adults) |
0-3 years: - 80% | 4-11 years: - 40% | 12-17 years: - 30% | |||||
| Group reduction | 6 - 11 people: - 10% | 12+ people: - 15% | |||||
| Additional nights (optional) | Standard | Comfort | Prestige | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low season | High season | Low season | High season | Low season | High season | ||
| Blois | Double/twin room | 70 € | 80 € | 100 € | 110 € | 130 € | 140 € |
| Single room | 130 € | 150 € | 160 € | 180 € | 200 € | 230 € | |
| Amboise | Double/twin room | 60 € | 65 € | 85 € | 95 € | 110 € | 120 € |
| Single room | 110 € | 120 € | 135 € | 145 € | 170 € | 180 € | |
💡 SEASONS
- Low season: 1/10 - 31/10
- High season: 1/7 - 31/08
| BIKE RENTAL - equipment and return included - | |
|---|---|
| Electric bike | 110 € |
| Trekking bike | 90 € |
| Children’s bike (-12 years) | 80 € |
| Child trailer | 60 € |
| Detachable follower bike | 107 € |
THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES
- Overnight stays in hotels or guesthouses in the chosen comfort category
- Breakfast at each accommodation
- Transport of your luggage between accommodations
- A detailed roadbook (A5 booklet + PDF), prepared by us during our reconnaissance trip
- GPS tracks of the route via our navigation app
- A printed map of the circuit
- Luggage tags
- Telephone assistance 7 days a week
- Tourist taxes
- Booking fees
OPTIONS
- Bike rental
- Single room supplement
- Additional nights in Blois and/or Amboise
- 3 Châteaux Pass (Chambord - Chaumont - Chenonceau) – skip-the-line tickets
- Visit to the "Ambacia" wine cellar in Amboise
- Optional insurance: cancellation and/or assistance
- Theft & damage insurance for rental bikes
THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Travel from your home to Blois and the return to your home from Amboise
- Lunches and dinners
- Entrance fees to tourist sites and other personal expenses
- Anything not listed in “THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES”
SPECIAL CASES
- If you carry your own luggage, a discount is applied (see booking form). An extra bag is provided if you rent a bike.
- Solo travellers: a logistical supplement is added to the single room supplement.
REVIEWS
Valérie and Maxime, 50 and 21 years old"Excellent stay, the Loire castles! Very well organised, the route and cycling distances were perfect. Highly recommend the agency." October 2025
Claire, 63 years old
"Cycling circuit in the Loire with Cyclodyssees: outstanding organisation for both the quality of the route and the accommodations/luggage transport. Organisers were very responsive even for minor issues beyond their control. A beautiful combination of sport and culture. On top of everything, we were blessed with excellent weather! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!" September 2024
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