Bonjour! Welcome to Blois – the gateway to the Loire Valley beautifully situated on the banks of the Loire river. With no activities planned today, you are free to arrive at any time, but ensure you can make an important 6 pm welcome meeting with your group leader and fellow cyclists. Before then, Blois is free for you to explore. Why not head to the Chateau Royal de Blois, or the serene St Vincent de Paul Church, or simply wander the old streets of this charming provincial city.
This morning you’ll begin your cycling adventure through the Loire Valley. After a quick a bicycle fitting, then take a leisurely ride along the banks of the serene Loire River on a dedicated bike-only path to the small riverside town of Saint-Dye-sur-Loire. From here turn inland and ride along narrow tree-lined country roads to the palatial Chateau de Chambord. This beautiful palace, commissioned by Francois I and whose design was influenced by Leonardo da Vinci, is a sight to behold, with a central structure adorned with multiple chimneys and sculpted capitals on its terraces. After you’ve explored the palace and its manicured gardens, cycle back along quiet roads through flat pastures and return to Blois for the evening. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local chocolaterie for a tasting before heading back to Blois, adding a delicious treat to your scenic ride.
This morning, consider the option of visiting another grand building: Chateau de Cheverny. If you would like to take a visit inside, please let your group leader know the day before, as earlier travel arrangements are necessary to take this optional visit.
Your cycling begins by riding along the scenic plateau before descending to the Cher River, where the iconic Château de Chenonceau awaits. This enchanting château stretches gracefully across the river, with its elegant architecture and manicured gardens creating a storybook setting. Rather than exploring inside, you’ll glide beneath the bridge in a kayak, enjoying a unique perspective of the château from the water, surrounded by the serene beauty of the countryside—a truly magical and unforgettable experience.
After your visit, cycle through the Amboise Forest, rejoining the Loire River as you arrive in the charming riverside town of Amboise for the evening. Upon arrival, enjoy a wine tasting to unwind and sample some of the region’s finest offerings. If you’d like to explore more châteaux, consider visiting Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last three years of his life. Now a small museum, its grounds showcase working models of his ingenious designs and are within easy walking or cycling distance from the town centre.
Continue to hug the Loire River as it gently makes it way downstream to the Vouvray vineyards. This wine region is almost exclusively dedicated to chenin blanc, and with its naturally high acidity, the wines produced here age very well. Continue cycling to Tours, cutting across the river on your way to the Chateau de Villandry – arguably the Loire Valley’s most famous chateau. Wander through the vast gardens of perfectly curated gardens and the beautiful U-shaped castle. With time to explore, be sure to stop and smell the roses in these beautiful surroundings.
Be ready for a longer - but not overly challenging - day of cycling (approximately 60 kilometres). Begin your ride from Villandry along the banks of Loire River to the Château d'Ussé that Charles Perrault took as inspiration for his castle in the tale of Sleeping Beauty. Opt to visit the castle and grounds before continuing cycling downstream through two beautifully classic French villages – Candes-Saint-Martin and Montsoreau – both perched on the riverside. In Montsoreau cycle past the old troglodyte part of the village where you can see homes, doors and windows cut directly into the cliff before finishing your ride ion the charming town of Saumur.
Park your bike and take to the water on a short but sweet small boat river cruise – remember to toast the moment with an include glass of exquisite local wine. The evening is free for you to explore Saumur’s cobblestoned streets, visit a sparkling wine cellar, or try out one of the fine-dining options in the medieval centre. Today’s ride is mostly flat, but be sure to enjoy a restful evening before another cycling day tomorrow.
Continue your ride down France’s longest river – the Loire. Cycle from Saumur alongside the river for around 20 kilometres, then head inland to Brissac-Quincé, home to the tallest château in all of France. From here, descend gently back towards the Loire River and on to tonight’s destination: the beautiful and historically significant city of Angers. Upon arrival, enjoy a cheese tasting at a local fromagerie, savoring some of the region’s finest flavors. This evening, perhaps gather your cycling group together for dinner – tonight is definitely cause for celebration.
With no activities planned for today, you are free to leave at any time. However, if you wish to spend more time in Angers, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
