France – Loire Royal Valley Bike Tour

Welcome to Blois, a charming town along the Loire River and easily accessible from Paris by train. After checking into your hotel, take time to explore the delightful walking streets, filled with pastry shops, cafés, and wine shops offering tastings. Don’t miss the magnificent Château de Blois, a beautifully restored royal residence that hosted seven kings and ten queens of France—be sure to catch the summer Sound and Light show if available. Your orientation and bike delivery will take place tomorrow morning at your hotel, with the time confirmed before your trip.

Overnight: Blois

Today, head to the stunning Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, perched strategically along the river. Originally built in the 11th century during the conflicts between the counts of Anjou and Blois, this historic castle has been transformed over the centuries by various owners, including Catherine de Medici. Now, it serves as the picturesque venue for the renowned International Garden Festival.

Just across the river lies the historic town center and another iconic château, where French kings spent their childhoods during the 15th and 16th centuries. Be sure to visit the fascinating museum showcasing many of Leonardo da Vinci’s ingenious inventions—created during his final years, which he spent here until his death in 1519. This remarkable destination is not to be missed!

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 42 km / 26 miles
Highlights: Chaumont-sur-Loire, Amboise sight-seeing
Overnight: Amboise

Start your morning at your own pace with breakfast whenever you like, and then get ready to ride! One of the perks of a self-guided trip is the freedom to set your own schedule—so take full advantage and enjoy the day.

The highlight of today’s ride is the enchanting Château de Chenonceau, often called the most romantic of all the Loire châteaux. Gracefully spanning the Cher River, its pale stone turrets and arches are beautifully mirrored in the water. Once home to both Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers, this historic gem is a must-see. Take your time exploring, and consider packing a lunch in Amboise to enjoy amidst the château’s stunning surroundings.

Afterward, you have the option to continue on to the charming village of Montrichard, nestled along the Cher River and at the base of a fortress dating back to 1121. It’s the perfect way to round off a delightful day of cycling and discovery!

Meals: breakfast & dinner
Distance: 24 or 45 km / 15 or 28 miles
Highlights: Chenonceau, Montrichard
Overnight: Chenonceau

Today’s ride takes you off the beaten path, immersing you in the charm of the Cher Valley. Begin your journey by discovering fascinating troglodyte houses carved into the cliffs, a unique feature of the region. Cycle through serene vineyards and enchanting woods until you reach the delightful village of Fougères-sur-Bièvre, home to an impressive feudal château.

From there, it’s a scenic 15km ride to the villages of Chitenay and finally near Cheverny, where a charming castle hotel awaits you, close to the renowned Château de Cheverny. With tomorrow promising a big day of adventure, consider taking the opportunity to visit Cheverny by bike today—it’s a stunning experience you won’t want to miss!

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 36 or 45 km / 22 or 28 miles
Highlights: Troglodyte houses, beautiful chateaus & castles
Overnight: Cheverny

Today’s ride takes you north through enchanting forests to the magnificent Château de Chambord, an iconic masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture completed in 1545. After immersing yourself in its grandeur, cross the Loire River and continue your ride along the serene north bank, widely regarded as one of the most delightful sections of the Loire to cycle.

Your journey leads you to the royal city of Blois, the birthplace of Louis XII. This historic gem is home to a fascinating château steeped in history, where dramatic assassinations unfolded and an array of architectural styles converge beautifully. Blois is also a charming town to explore, with its lively center offering delightful shops, cozy cafés, and inviting restaurants—a perfect spot to round off your day.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 43 km / 27 miles
Highlights: Chambord, Blois, chateau & castle visit
Overnight: Blois

Depart from your hotel in Blois after enjoying breakfast at your leisure. Trains are available direct to Paris. See www.oui.sncf.com for the train schedules.

Meals: breakfast