Embark on an unforgettable Loire Valley cycling adventure through the heart of French history. Between Blois, Chambord, Amboise, and Chenonceaux, this journey immerses you in a dreamlike landscape where every turn of the pedal reveals another architectural masterpiece.
Follow the Loire à Vélo cycling paths, meander through vineyards, forests, and charming villages, and let yourself be carried by the serene rhythm of the royal river.
This tour combines heritage, nature, and art de vivre, offering a complete immersion in the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, bucolic scenery, majestic castles, and Touraine’s celebrated gastronomy come together in a journey to savor freely and at your own pace.
Welcome to Blois, a city of art and history at the heart of the Loire Valley, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Overlooking the royal river, Blois charms visitors with its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and Renaissance atmosphere.
Don’t miss the Royal Château of Blois, an exceptional monument uniting four architectural styles: Gothic, Flamboyant, Renaissance, and Classical. Once home to seven kings and ten queens of France, it was the setting for the infamous assassination of the Duke of Guise under King Henry III. Its grand façade, monumental staircase, and richly decorated chambers reflect the elegance and power of the French court.
In the evening, stroll through the old quarters and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant before preparing for your cycling journey through the land of castles.
Leave Blois along the Loire à Vélo cycle paths, peacefully following the flow of the river before entering the vast forest of Chambord. Soon, the colossal silhouette of Château de Chambord rises on the horizon like a vision from a dream. Commissioned by King François I in 1519, Chambord remains one of the most iconic masterpieces of the French Renaissance.
With 426 rooms, 282 chimneys, and its famous double-helix staircase attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, Chambord embodies royal ambition and Renaissance genius. The estate covers more than 13,000 acres of forest, a paradise for lovers of nature and history.
The return to Blois follows tranquil forest lanes through a peaceful landscape. For the more adventurous, a cycle optional loop leads to Château de Cheverny, still inhabited by the same family after six centuries. Renowned for its harmony and beautifully furnished interiors, it even inspired Hergé’s creation of Captain Haddock’s Marlinspike Hall in The Adventures of Tintin.
Saddle up for a delightful cycling stage through villages, vineyards, and riverbanks. Today’s program offers a true immersion in the gentle rhythm of the Loire Valley. Along the way, stop at Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, perched high above the river. Once owned by Catherine de’ Medici, who transformed it into a haven for art and diplomacy before passing it to her rival Diane de Poitiers, the château now hosts the world-famous International Garden Festival, blending contemporary art and landscape design.
Arriving in Amboise, you step once again into royal grandeur. The Royal Château of Amboise, overlooking the Loire, was the residence of King François I and a symbol of the Valois dynasty’s power. Just a short walk away, the Clos Lucé was Leonardo da Vinci’s final home. Invited by the king, he spent the last three years of his life here, surrounded by his inventions, art, and ideas—a moving visit where creativity meets history.
Built on the arches of a bridge spanning the Cher, Chenonceau was shaped by remarkable women: Diane de Poitiers, the beloved of King Henry II, and Catherine de’ Medici, who transformed it into a place of art and influence. Inside, its galleries, tapestries, and gardens showcase a refined elegance unique to the Loire.
For a longer cycling stage, extend your journey through the vineyards of Montlouis-sur-Loire, known for their delicate Chenin Blanc wines and scenic beauty.
Your last cycling stage unfolds in a tranquil, pastoral atmosphere. Follow the Cher River along peaceful bike paths, passing orchards, meadows, and small private châteaux with slate roofs. This route, dotted with traditional needle weirs, reveals an authentic and green Touraine, far from the main tourist tracks.
As you approach Tours, the capital of Touraine, the city reveals its understated elegance through mansions, public gardens, and lively cafés. Here, the Loire by bike meets living history and vibrant culture.
Your Loire Valley castles cycling adventure concludes in Tours, a city of art and culture. Visit Saint-Gatien Cathedral, a masterpiece of flamboyant Gothic architecture, and the lively Place Plumereau, known for its half-timbered houses and welcoming atmosphere. Before saying goodbye, indulge in the local specialties that make the region famous: rillons (slow-cooked pork), Saint-Maure-de-Touraine goat cheese, and the delicious nougat de Tours. Tours embodies the essence of the French art de vivre, where the river, the stone, and the vine meet in perfect harmony.
For a more exclusive cycling experience, the Superior Category includes a refined selection of 4- and 5-star properties that blend elegance with high-end amenities.
These are sophisticated places with attentive service and a true sense of exclusivity, ideal for elevating your trip with added comfort, style, and refinement after each cycling stage.An ideal option to elevate your trip with added comfort, style, and refinement.
* Photos for illustration purposes only
(based on double occupancy)
Daily arrival
Options
By train
Blois–Chambord station is served by both Intercités and regional TER trains From Paris Austerlitz, travel time typically ranges from about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on the service. The station is within easy reach of the town center.
By air
Blois does not have a major international airport. The most convenient options are:
Tours Val de Loire (the closest): followed by a short train ride or drive to Blois.
Paris-Orly / Paris-CDG : then continue by train from Paris to Blois.
By car
Blois is well connected to major highways (A10 from Paris, A85 toward Tours and Angers). In town, you’ll find several parking options and, depending on your plans (châteaux visits, historic center), it can be convenient to park once and explore on foot or by local bus.
Return travel from Tours is not arranged by us. Each guest is therefore free to organize their departure according to their own schedule and preferences.
If you would like recommendations for arranging your return or extending your stay in the Loire Valley, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll be happy to assist.
On the first or second day of your stay, we will deliver your rental bikes directly to your hotel. Each bike is carefully fitted to your height and comes fully equipped with:
For this trip, you can choose from the following rental options:
If you prefer to bring your own bike, that is absolutely fine. A discount will be applied to your booking.
So you can fully enjoy your journey without worrying about your belongings, we arrange luggage transfers at each stage of your trip:
Each rental bike comes equipped with a rear pannier, perfect for carrying your daily essentials. If you plan to arrive at your next accommodation before 5:00 PM, we recommend packing a change of clothes or an extra outfit in your rear bag.
To support you throughout your journey, we provide a dedicated GPS app. It allows you to follow each stage of your cycling itinerary independently, right from your smartphone.
Before departure, you’ll receive a link to download the app and access your routes. Once on site, simply open the day’s ride and let it guide you. Your map, turn-by-turn directions, and points of interest appear in real time.
