The Loire Valley Castles by Bike
- From 269 € / pers.
- 2 to 10 nights (depending on itinerary)
- From April to October
- Departure : any day
- Level : rather easy
- Electric bicycle available
- Luggage transfer 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 269 € / pers.
- 2 to 10 nights (depending on itinerary)
- From April to October
- Departures : any day
- Level : rather easy
- Electric bicycle available
- Luggage transfer included
Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure in the heart of the Loire Valley. This unique experience will introduce you to the region that, during the Renaissance, was the home of the greatest monarchs of the kingdom.
For a few days, wear the mantle of the iconic sovereign François I (or his royal spouse, depending on your preference!) and connect the various castles riding your faithful horse of modern times. Your favorite residences, such as the castles of Chambord, Cheverny, Chaumont-sur-Loire, or Chenonceau, will punctuate your royal journey. You will have the opportunity to meet your subjects in historically rich cities like Blois or Amboise, beautifully nestled on the hills overlooking the Loire. The prevalent use of Tuffeau stone in the construction of the dwellings imparts a truly romantic atmosphere.
Between these highlights, you will cross a delightfully rural landscape, mostly on greenways or small country roads. Occasionally, you will also follow the river nicknamed the royal river, which, despite being the true backbone of the region, has retained its wild aspect. Some wine cellars will also court you along the way, inviting you to sip the finest Touraine wines.
And your luggage? Fear not, your loyal subjects will take care of transporting them from one accommodation to another. All you have to do is pedal and enjoy the view, just like a true monarch.
There is no doubt that you will emerge invigorated after this escapade, with the feeling that this corner of France is an allegory of its best offerings. So, saddle up, Your Majesty! The Loire Valley awaits your illustrious presence, with a few pedal strokes between wine tastings and castle visits.
Bon voyage!
Whether you are an experienced cyclist or not, our journey is designed for all levels, with variations at most stages for those seeking more. The distances to cover are generally quite short, allowing you time for some visits along the way. The Loire Valley, presenting little elevation, makes this route an excellent choice for a first cycling trip. With well-planned stages and full support, we ensure that your experience is as comfortable as it is exciting. If you desire a customized itinerary, feel free to contact us as well: we will tailor an offer to your needs.
HOW LONG TO GO?
The classic formula, covering all the "must-sees" of the region, takes 6 days/5 nights (4 days of cycling). This formula can be extended by one stage to include the lovely city of Tours (7 days/6 nights - 5 days of cycling).
For a short break, opt rather for a condensed version with our 3 days/2 nights (3 days of cycling) stay.
And if you have more time on your hands, you can even choose the complete royal tour, going from Orléans to Saumur (11 days/10 nights - 9 days of cycling). By opting for this route, you can also explore the castles of Meung-sur-Loire, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau, Chinon, and Saumur. Additionally, you'll immerse yourself in a more unusual environment, where the route will take you through a succession of troglodyte villages. Orléans, Chinon, and Saumur are also magnificent historical cities well worth a visit!
We offer 4 options for this trip (for more details, see the previous tab, at the very bottom), so that the vast majority of you can find a journey that suits your desires. This trip is also suitable for families with children.
If you prefer a customized itinerary, feel free to contact us as well: we will provide you with an offer tailored to your needs.
Day-by-Day Program of Our 4 Options:
Day 1: Arrival in Blois and Loop to Chambord (40 / 49 km - 25 / 30 mi)
Your adventure begins in Blois, the quintessence of the French Renaissance city. Every stone seems to have a story to tell here. The charm of its narrow streets, white stone houses, squares overlooking the river, and its impressive royal castle make it a sort of postcard of what a typical French city of the time could look like.
This first day of cycling takes you to the Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of the French Renaissance and certainly the most exuberant of the Loire castles. In the midst of vast forests - the castle's domain was once a renowned hunting ground - the gigantic royal edifice suddenly emerges, majestically standing amidst French gardens. With its famous double helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci, towers, chimneys, and a true forest of dormers and lanterns on its roof, it is unique and offers a grand spectacle. Inside, you'll discover richly decorated rooms bearing witness to the bygone royal grandeur, before enjoying the royal view from the top!
On the way back, you rejoin the course of the Loire at St-Dyé-sur-Loire, which you will now follow until Blois.
The most motivated can take an additional detour by heading up the river to Muides-sur-Loire, where they can cross the bridge and then return to Blois on the other bank.
Day 2: Blois - Amboise (43 km - 27 mi)
You leave Blois by following the riverbanks downstream towards Chaumont-sur-Loire, an idyllic riverside village living in the shadow of its impressive castle.
The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is famous for its International Garden Festival. The gardens, with a different theme each year, are a laboratory of creativity and innovation, attracting designers from around the world.
You then follow the Loire Valley and enter the Touraine wine region.
At the end of the route, you reach the royal city of Amboise, where narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses, and colorful local markets will immerse you once again in another century. Amboise also lives in the shadow of its castle. This castle, which has housed many kings, is built on a hill overlooking the river, providing a sublime view. But the city also houses the Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, now transformed into a museum dedicated to his work.
Day 3: Loop to Chenonceau (45 km - 28 mi)
Today, head to the Cher Valley to visit the Château de Chenonceau, which spans the river with incredible elegance, often described as entirely feminine. The primary residence of Diane de Poitiers and later Catherine de' Medici, the "Ladies' Castle" was largely designed by the women who lived there. However, the interest of the place is not only in its exterior, as its gardens and period-furnished interiors are equally worth the visit.
During the loop that takes you through Chenonceau, you will pass through many vineyards. You will have several opportunities to enter a local wine cellar in the region!
To return to Blois (if necessary), you can either take a TER (about 20 min.) or opt for a private transfer.
If you have opted for rental bikes, you can drop them off at our partner in Amboise before heading back.
Day 1: Arrival in Blois
Your adventure begins in Blois, the quintessence of the French Renaissance city. Every stone seems to have a story to tell here. The charm of its narrow streets, white stone houses, squares overlooking the river, and its impressive royal castle make it a sort of postcard of what a typical French city of the time could look like.
Day 2: Loop to Chambord (40 / 49 km - 25 / 30 mi)
This first day of cycling takes you to the Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of the French Renaissance and certainly the most exuberant of the Loire castles. In the midst of vast forests - the castle's domain was once a renowned hunting ground - the gigantic royal edifice suddenly emerges, majestically standing amidst French gardens. With its famous double helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci, towers, chimneys, and a true forest of dormers and lanterns on its roof, it is unique and offers a grand spectacle. Inside, you'll discover richly decorated rooms bearing witness to the bygone royal grandeur, before enjoying the royal view from the top!
On the way back, you rejoin the course of the Loire at St-Dyé-sur-Loire, which you will now follow until Blois.
The more athletic can take an additional detour by heading up the river to Muides-sur-Loire, where they can cross the bridge and then return to Blois on the other bank.
Day 3: Blois - Cheverny - Chaumont-sur-Loire (23 / 46 / 55 km - 14 / 29 / 40 mi)
The backcountry around Blois has its share of castles waiting to be admired up close. The first on your route is the Château de Beauregard, famous for its impressive portrait gallery, the largest in Europe. You then reach the Château de Cheverny, a model of elegance and symmetry. The building is famous for inspiring Hergé in creating the Moulinsart castle in Tintin. Its interiors, remarkably preserved, provide a glimpse into aristocratic life with collections of period art and furniture. The meticulously maintained gardens are an enchantment of colors and scents. Then, gradually returning to the riverbanks, you stay in Chaumont-sur-Loire, an idyllic riverside village living in the shadow of its impressive castle.
On the way to Chaumont, it is possible to take an additional detour to the Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, a medieval castle that is beautiful from the outside.
Day 4: Chaumont-sur-Loire - Amboise (23 km - 14 mi)
This lighter day allows you to fully take the time to visit the Chaumont castle and/or the town of Amboise.
The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is famous for its International Garden Festival. The gardens, with a different theme each year, are a laboratory of creativity and innovation, attracting designers from around the world.
You then follow the Loire Valley and enter the Touraine wine region.
At the end of the route, you reach the royal city of Amboise, where narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses, and colorful local markets will immerse you once again in another century. Amboise also lives in the shadow of its castle. This castle, which has housed many kings, is built on a hill overlooking the river, providing a sublime view.
But the city also houses the Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, now transformed into a museum dedicated to his work.
Day 5: Loop to Chenonceau (45 / 65 km - 28 / 40 mi)
Today, head to the Cher Valley to visit the Château de Chenonceau, which spans the river with incredible elegance, often described as entirely feminine. The primary residence of Diane de Poitiers and later Catherine de' Medici, the "Ladies' Castle" was largely designed by the women who lived there. However, the interest of the place is not only in its exterior, as its gardens and period-furnished interiors are equally worth the visit.
During the loop that takes you to Chenonceau, you will pass through numerous vineyards. You will have several opportunities to step into a local wine cellar in the region!
An alternative route also allows you to pass through Montrichard, a quiet medieval town nestled on the banks of the Cher.
Day 6: End of the journey
End of the journey after breakfast.
To return to Blois, you can either take a TER (about 20 min.) or opt for a private transfer.
Day 1: Arrival in Blois
Your adventure begins in Blois, the quintessence of the French Renaissance city. Every stone here seems to have a story to tell. The charm of its narrow streets, white stone houses, small squares overlooking the river, and its impressive Royal Castle make it a sort of postcard of what a typical French city of the time might have looked like.
Day 2: Loop to Chambord (40 / 49 km - 25 / 30 mi)
This first day of cycling takes you to the Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of the French Renaissance and certainly the most exuberant of the Loire castles. In the midst of vast forests—the castle's domain was a renowned hunting ground at the time—the gigantic royal structure suddenly emerges, standing majestically amidst French gardens. With its famous double-revolution staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci, its towers, chimneys, and a real forest of dormers and lanterns on its roof, it is unique and offers a spectacular sight. Inside, you will discover richly decorated rooms attesting to the bygone royal grandeur, before enjoying the royal view from the roof!
On the way back, you rejoin the course of the Loire at St-Dyé-sur-Loire, which you will now follow all the way back to Blois.
The more adventurous can take an additional detour upstream to Muides-sur-Loire, where they can cross the bridge and then return to Blois on the other side.
Day 3: Blois - Cheverny - Chaumont-sur-Loire (23 / 46 / 55 km - 14 / 29 / 40 mi)
The backcountry around Blois has its share of castles waiting to be admired up close. The first on your route is the Château de Beauregard, famous for its impressive portrait gallery, the largest in Europe. You then reach the Château de Cheverny, a model of elegance and symmetry. The building is famous for inspiring Hergé in creating the Moulinsart castle in Tintin. Its interiors, remarkably preserved, provide a glimpse into aristocratic life with collections of period art and furniture. The meticulously maintained gardens are an enchantment of colors and scents. Then, gradually returning to the riverbanks, you stay in Chaumont-sur-Loire, an idyllic riverside village living in the shadow of its impressive castle.
On the way to Chaumont, it is possible to make an additional detour to the Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, a medieval castle that is beautiful from the outside.
Day 4: Chaumont-sur-Loire - Amboise (23 km - 14 mi)
This lighter day allows you plenty of time to fully explore the Chaumont Castle and/or the town of Amboise.
The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is famous for its International Garden Festival. The gardens, themed differently each year, are a laboratory of creativity and innovation, attracting designers from around the world.
You then follow the Loire Valley and enter the Touraine wine region.
At the end of the route, you reach the royal city of Amboise, with its cobbled streets, traditional houses, and colorful local markets that will once again immerse you in another century. Amboise also lives in the shadow of its castle, which, perched above the river, offers a sublime view. The city also houses the Clos Lucé, which was the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci and is now transformed into a museum dedicated to his work.
Day 5: Loop to Chenonceau (45 / 65 km - 28 / 40 mi)
Today's destination is the Cher Valley to meet the Château de Chenonceau, which spans the river with incredible elegance, almost feminine in character. The principal residence of Diane de Poitiers and later Catherine de Medici, the "Ladies' Castle" was largely designed by the women who lived there. But the interest of the place is not only in its exterior, as its gardens and furnished interiors are equally worthwhile.
During the loop that takes you to Chenonceau, you will pass through numerous vineyards. You will have several opportunities to step into a local wine cellar in the region!
A variant allows you to also pass through Montrichard, a quiet medieval town nestled on the banks of the Cher.
Day 6: Amboise - Tours (28 km - 17 mi)
The route between Amboise and Tours takes you through picturesque vineyards.
This stage, again shorter, allows you to explore the city of Tours more deeply. The city is known for its rich heritage and lively cultural life. Old Tours presents a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, notably visible in Place Plumereau, famous for its half-timbered houses and lively café terraces. The Cathedral of Saint-Gatien in Tours is a masterpiece of Gothic art, impressive with its ornate facade and beautiful stained glass windows.
The city also offers a renowned gastronomic scene. Local markets, such as the Marché des Halles in Tours, are perfect places to discover Touraine culinary specialties.
Day 7: End of the trip
End of the trip after breakfast. To return to Blois, you can either take a TER (about 40 min.) or opt for a private transfer.
Day 1: Arrival in Orléans
Orléans, located in the heart of France, is famous for its historical and architectural heritage. The Sainte-Croix Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture, dominates the urban landscape. The House of Joan of Arc, where the famous heroine lived during the Siege of Orléans, is an essential memorial. The Museum of Fine Arts, rich in European artworks, and the Hôtel Groslot, a remarkable Renaissance building, are other major attractions. The city is also known for its picturesque bridges over the Loire, offering lovely views of the old center.
Day 2: from Orléans to Beaugency (29 / 35 km - 18 / 22 mi)
You leave Orléans along the river, passing through a predominantly agricultural landscape on paths often specially designed for cycling. Along the way, you'll visit the historic town of Meung-sur-Loire, where Alexandre Dumas set the beginning of his famous novel "The Three Musketeers." This is also where the first of many impressive castles invites you to open its doors. It was the principal residence of the bishops of Orléans. At the end of the route, you arrive in Beaugency, a captivating medieval town known for its old bridge, large dungeon, and well-preserved architecture.
An additional detour of a few kilometers will allow you to visit the Basilica of Cléry-Saint-André, which houses the tomb of King Louis XI.
Day 3: from Beaugency to Blois via Chambord (45 km - 28 mi)
This day takes you to the famous Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of French Renaissance and certainly the most extravagant of the Loire castles. Amidst vast forests - the castle's domain was once a renowned hunting ground - the gigantic royal edifice suddenly emerges, majestically standing amidst French gardens. With its famous double helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci, towers, chimneys, and a true forest of dormers and lanterns on its roof, it is unique and offers a grand spectacle. Inside, you'll discover richly decorated rooms bearing witness to the bygone royal grandeur, before enjoying the royal view from the top!
Next, you arrive in Blois, the epitome of the French Renaissance city. Every stone seems to have a story to tell here. The charm of its narrow streets, white stone houses, squares overlooking the river, and its impressive royal castle make it a postcard of what a typical French city of the time could look like.
Day 4: Blois - Cheverny - Chaumont-sur-Loire (23 / 46 / 55 km - 14 / 29 / 34 mi)
The backcountry around Blois has its share of castles waiting to be admired up close. The first on your route is the Château de Beauregard, famous for its impressive portrait gallery, the largest in Europe. You then reach the Château de Cheverny, a model of elegance and symmetry. The building is famous for inspiring Hergé in creating the Moulinsart castle in Tintin. Its interiors, remarkably preserved, provide a glimpse into aristocratic life with collections of art and furniture. The meticulously maintained gardens are an enchantment of colors and scents. Gradually returning to the riverbanks, you stay in Chaumont-sur-Loire, an idyllic riverside village living in the shadow of its impressive castle.
On the way to Chaumont, it is possible to take an additional detour to Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, a medieval castle that is beautiful from the outside.
Day 5: Chaumont-sur-Loire - Amboise (23 km - 14 mi)
This lighter day allows you to fully take the time to visit the Chaumont castle and/or the town of Amboise.
The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is famous for its International Garden Festival. The gardens, with a different theme each year, are a laboratory of creativity and innovation, attracting designers from around the world.
You then follow the Loire Valley and enter the Touraine wine region. At the end of the route, you reach the royal city of Amboise, where narrow cobbled streets, traditional houses, and colorful local markets will immerse you once again in another century. Amboise also lives in the shadow of its castle. This castle, which has housed many kings, is built on a hill overlooking the river, providing a sublime view. But the city also houses the Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, now transformed into a museum dedicated to his work.
Day 6: Loop to Chenonceau (45 / 65 km - 28 / 40 mi)
Today, head to the Cher Valley to visit the Château de Chenonceau, which spans the river with incredible elegance, often described as entirely feminine. The primary residence of Diane de Poitiers and later Catherine de' Medici, the "Ladies' Castle" was largely designed by the women who lived there. However, the interest of the place is not only in its exterior, as its gardens and period-furnished interiors are equally worth the visit.
During the loop that takes you through Chenonceau, you will pass through many vineyards. You will have several opportunities to enter a local wine cellar in the region!
An alternative route also allows you to pass through Montrichard, a tranquil medieval town nestled along the Cher River.
Day 7: Amboise - Tours (28 km - 17 mi)
The route between Amboise and Tours takes you through picturesque vineyards. This stage is shorter and allows you to explore the city of Tours more thoroughly. The city is known for its rich heritage and lively cultural scene. Old Tours presents a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, especially evident in the Place Plumereau, famous for its half-timbered houses and lively café terraces. The Saint-Gatien Cathedral of Tours is a masterpiece of Gothic art, impressive with its adorned façade and beautiful stained glass windows. The city also offers a renowned gastronomic scene. Local markets, such as the Marché des Halles of Tours, are perfect places to discover Touraine culinary specialties.
Day 8: from Tours to Azay-le-Rideau (34 / 43 km - 21 / 27 mi)
You leave Tours through the Cher Valley, which will first take you to Savonnières, a small typical village nestled on the bank. You then reach the Château de Villandry, renowned for the incredible richness of its French gardens, impressive for both their vastness and inventiveness. Next, you cross a more agricultural landscape that will lead you to Azay-le-Rideau, whose castle, erected in the middle of an island on the Indre River, gains additional splendor thanks to its perfect reflection in the surrounding water.
The more motivated can, for about 10 km more, choose an alternative route via the town of Langeais, which houses an impressive fortress.
Day 9: from Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon (38 km - 24 mi)
After rejoining the Loire at the idyllic village of Bréhémont, you reach the Château d'Ussé, which is none other than the one that inspired Charles Perrault in writing his tale "Sleeping Beauty." You then cycle towards the Vienne Valley, where the medieval town of Chinon is beautifully nestled. Its fortress, built on a rocky spur, commands respect.
Day 10: from Chinon to Saumur (36 / 45 km - 22 / 28 mi)
At the confluence of the Vienne and the Loire - here, the river truly begins to widen! - you pass through Candes-Saint-Martin and Montsoreau, two medieval villages rightly classified among the most beautiful in France. You then enter the heart of the troglodyte region. But the area is also known for its wines, so you meander through beautiful vineyard landscapes. At the end of the day, you reach the beautiful medieval town of Saumur, stretched along the great river.
An additional detour also allows you to visit the impressive Fontevraud Abbey, which houses the tombs of famous Plantagenet kings, such as Richard the Lionheart.
Day 11: End of the journey
End of the journey after breakfast.
To return to Orléans, you can either take a TER train (about 2 hours and 10 minutes) or opt for a private transfer.
- Seasonality: from April to October.
The Loire Valley enjoys a semi-continental temperate climate with relatively mild and humid winters and fairly hot and dry summers.
In spring, temperatures are generally pleasant from April onwards. This is also the time when the castle gardens are most colorful.
In summer, the region experiences some Mediterranean influence, and the weather is generally sunny and warm without being excessive. However, occasional heatwaves may make cycling uncomfortable during the hottest hours. Tourist sites are also most crowded during this period.
The region typically has a beautiful late-season, with pleasant temperatures until late October and almost as much sunshine as in summer. September is also the grape harvest season. From October onwards, the trees display enchanting autumn colors.
In late autumn and winter, it becomes quite cool, even cold, making cycling less suitable. Additionally, many accommodations close seasonally during this time.
Note: Weather can vary significantly from year to year. The information provided above represents averages.
- On-site arrival: Every day
You can start this tour any day of the week (subject to availability in accommodations).
- On-site arrival and return:
- Start of the journey: Orleans or Blois (depending on the tour)
- End of the journey: Amboise, Tours, or Saumur (depending on the tour you opt for)
Orleans and Blois are easily accessible by train or car.
Train +- Coming from the north side, first head to Paris
- From Paris: from Austerlitz station, 1 to 2 direct TER trains per hour to Orleans, and 3 direct TER trains per day to Blois-Chambord (with a stop in Orleans), taking approximately 1h05 and 1h20, respectively. If you're bringing your own bikes, they can be taken on board for free (non-dismantled).
- More information: www.sncf.com
Car +The A10 motorway (Paris-Bordeaux) passes through Orleans and Blois.
- Return to the starting point:
To return to Blois or Orleans from Amboise, Tours, or Saumur, you can either take a TER (Regional Express Train) or opt for a private transfer. Regardless of the route, there are several direct trains available each day.
Approximate TER travel time:
- Amboise - Blois: 20 min.
- Tours - Blois: 40 min.
- Saumur - Orleans: 2h10 min.
- Parking :
Our roadbook will provide all necessary information on where to leave your car during your stay. - Route type :
Linear itinerary. At the end of the route, you can easily return to the starting point by train. - Guidance :
Self-guided. You'll have a detailed roadbook for navigation, as well as GPS tracks of the route through an easy-to-use navigation app. Since the navigation is satellite-based, no internet connection is required. - Level: Rather easy
Distances to cover are generally quite short, allowing time for sightseeing along the way. The Loire Valley, with little elevation, is an excellent choice for a first cycling trip.
On some days, you'll have the possibility to choose among different variants (relax, intermediate, sporty). These variants allow you to adjust the travel time based on your preferences or weather conditions. Regardless of the chosen variants, you won't miss any "must-see" sites.
- Elevation gain : The route is generally flat, although the banks of the Loire and its tributaries can be slightly hilly. However, the route remains largely accessible for all cyclists. Electric bikes are also available for rent.
- Stage lengths : Approximately 30 to 50 km per day (19 to 31 mi).
- Terrain : Over 90% paved roads. Some compact gravel paths that do not require suspension or mountain bike tires.
- Accommodations :
Two categories of accommodations are offered on this route:
Standard Category : 2-3* hotels or equivalent guesthouses
Comfort Category : 3* hotels or equivalent guesthouses. - Meals :
Breakfasts are included. Lunches and dinners are not included. During the day, you can dine in local restaurants (daily suggestions are provided in our roadbook) or have a picnic by purchasing supplies from local grocery stores. Half-board is not available on this trip, but there are always restaurants within walking distance of your accommodation, and some accommodations even have their own restaurant. - Luggage transport :
You only carry your day's belongings during cycling stages. We handle the transport of your luggage from one accommodation to another. It is also possible to carry your belongings with you in side panniers, like long-distance cyclists. In this case, you receive a discount. - Travel documents :
A detailed roadbook, a topographic map of the circuit, and GPS tracks (via our navigation app) will be sent to you before your departure. In the roadbook, which you also receive in paper format, you'll find not only a description of the route but also numerous tourist and cultural information, restaurant suggestions, and places to replenish along the way. - Bikes :
We offer the rental of quality, fully equipped bikes suitable for the terrain.
Equipment includes a smartphone holder, a waterproof rear bag, a lock, a repair kit, and (upon request) a helmet.
You also have the option to rent an electric bike for this trip.
If you prefer to use your own bike, be sure to check all parts of the bike in advance (brake wear, tire condition, sprockets, chain, etc.) to ensure it is in good technical order for a long-distance journey.
Bikes suitable for this trip include trekking bikes (or hybrid bikes), gravel bikes, and electric bikes. Road bikes have tires too thin for gravel sections, and city bikes can work but may have only 6 or 7 speeds, which is not ideal.
- Cancellation and assistance insurances:
In order to guarantee reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay or in the event of problems (e.g. health, accident, theft, lost luggage, ...) during the trip, you can opt for a cancellation (CAP Explorer - premium cancellation) and/or assistance insurance (CAP Exporer - premium assistance). To learn more about our proposed insurances, click more info or ask us.
Regardless of the chosen option, accommodations have all the necessary comforts for a good night's sleep! All rooms have a private bathroom, and accommodations have a place to store bikes.
The price of the tour depends on the group size, the season and the type of bike.
| Price | Itinerary 1 (3 days - 2 nights) |
Itinerary 2 (6 days - 5 nights) |
Itinerary 3 (7 days - 6 nights) |
Itinerary 4 (11 days - 10 nights) |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low season 1/4 - 30/6 & 1/9 - 31/10 |
High season 1/7 - 31/08 |
Low season 1/4 - 30/6 & 1/9 - 31/10 |
High season 1/7 - 31/08 |
Low season 1/4 - 30/6 & 1/9 - 31/10 |
High season 1/7 - 31/08 |
Low season 1/4 - 30/6 & 1/9 - 31/10 |
High season 1/7 - 31/08 |
|
| Base price per person | 269 € | 289 € | 569 € | 609 € | 679 € | 719 € | 1179 € | 1229 € |
| Single room supplement | 100 € | 250 € | 300 € | 500 € | ||||
| Comfort+ category supp. (accomodation) | +70 € / pers. | +140 € / pers. | +170 € / pers. | +290 € / pers. | ||||
| Child discount (0-3 / 4-11 / 12-17 y.o.) | -80% / -40% / -30% | |||||||
| Large group discount (6+ / 12+) | -5% / -10% | |||||||
| Rental bikes | Itinerary 1 |
Itinerary 2 |
Itinerary 3 |
Itinerary 4 |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric bike* | 110 € | 130 € | 155 € | 240 € | ||||
| Trekking bike* (adult / child <12 y.o.) | 90 / 80 € | 100 / 90 € | 110 / 100 € | 160 / 140 € | ||||
*Includes delivery and pick-up, as well as base equipment.
The high season for this tour goes from July to August
The base price includes:
- A detailed roadbook in English, produced by us during our scouting trip. It includes, in addition to information on the course, a lot of information on tourist sites as well as places to eat, get supplies and relax.
- GPS tracks
- A topographic map of the tour
- Accommodation in 2-3* hotels or equivalent guesthouses
- Breakfasts in all accommodations
- The transport of your luggage between the accommodations
- Luggage tags
- Telephone assistance in the event of a mechanical problem
- Tourist taxes
- Registration fees
- On-site rental of a bicycle with or without electric assistance
- Repatriation of the bicycle at the end of tour
- The single room supplement
- Additional nights in Blois, Amboise or Tours
- The Pass "3 Châteaux" (castles of Chambord, Chaumont & Chenonceau) - this is a combo ticket if you want to visit the "big three" with a discount price
- Vineyard tour and wine degustation
- Optional insurances: "CAP Explorer - premium cancellation" and/or "CAP Explorer - premium assistance" (more info)
- The trip from your home to the meeting point, as well as the return.
- Lunch and evening meals
- Personal expenses
- Entrances to tourist sites
- Anything not listed in “the price includes”
- A discount for children is provided (see table above). This discount applies if the family agrees to stay in family rooms when available and may be adjusted slightly (upwards or downwards) depending on the availability of family rooms. A reduction is also applied for large groups.
- If you wish to transport your luggage yourself from one accommodation to another, you benefit in this case from a discount. Additional bicycle side bags will then be provided to you.
- A 'solo traveller' supplement (from 50 € to 140 € in function of the itinerary) is counted for individuals doing this tour alone.
Claire, 63 years old
"Loire cycling circuit with Cyclodyssées: outstanding organization, both for the quality of the route and the accommodations/luggage transport. The organizers were very responsive, even for minor issues that were beyond their control or responsibility. A fantastic combination of sports and culture. And on top of all that, we were blessed with exceptionally favorable weather! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED without hesitation!" September 2024
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