Touring Bike
£98 for 7 days
Located on the central stretch of the Loire River; the Loire Valley, or, ‘Garden of France’ as it’s affectionately become known, is characterised by its wealth of vineyards, fruit orchards and jaw dropping châteaux. Cycling holidays and France go hand in hand, and this route along the banks of the countries longest river is a fine example of what draws so many cyclists to the home of the greatest bike race in the world.
Starting in Orléans, peddle west amongst just some of the incredible displays of architecture for which the region is so well known. From the magnificent medieval centre of Beaugency – freed by Joan of Arc after the Battle of Beaugency - to the stunning Châteaux de Chambord – an unbelievable expression of the French Rennaissance and one of the most recognisable châteaux in the world – it’s no surprise this central stretch of the river valley became a UNESCO World Heritage site in the year 2000. But architecture is far from all that this cycling tour has to offer. With vineyards, thick French forest and the unforgettable gardens of the Châteaux Villandry all making an appearance, it’s hard not to get swept up in the magic of this unique and inspired fairy-tale world.
With food and wine also a huge part of French culture, the Loire Valley is particularly revered for its delectable goats cheese and Sancerre wines – both of which you’ll find in abundance whilst on your tour. What else could one ask for from a cycling holiday in France? Bon voyage!
Select the tour you are interested in to view the itinerary.
Individual arrival in Orléans, a charming city on the banks of the Loire River. After checking in, we recommend exploring the old town, where cobbled streets wind past half-timbered houses and the grand Holy Cross Cathedral.
Begin your adventure riding along the southern bank of the Loire on a mix of bike paths and quiet roads. Visit the Cathedral of Cléry-Saint-André and the picturesque medieval town of Meung-sur-Loire before continuing to Beaugency and its unique “inverted boat” roof. Depending on your accommodation, continue on to the quiet riverside village of St. Dyé.
Ride through the vast parkland of Château de Chambord, then follow the forested edge of the Boulogne woods. Cross the elegant stone bridge into Blois and enjoy its atmospheric streets, cathedral, and namesake castle.
Cycle through forest and riverside villages to Chaumont-sur-Loire, home to the castle favoured by Catherine de’ Medici. Continue to Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years - you can visit both his home and the château that houses his tomb.
Today’s ride takes you to the remarkable Château de Chenonceau and its manicured gardens, before continuing to the riverside town of Tours. Pause at the Château de Nitray for a tasting or tour if time allows.
Cycle to the famed tiered gardens of Villandry, through the town of Langeais, and on to Ussé, known for its fairy-tale castle said to inspire Sleeping Beauty. Finish in Chinon, famed for its red wines and elegant town centre.
The final stage of your tour continues along quiet country roads, beyond the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers to Savigny en Vèron and the sites of Candes St-Martin. Just a few kilometres further on lies the castle of Montsoreau, from where you can enjoy the picturesque landscape over the Fontevraud Abbey. Final stop is Saumur, or the ‘Pearl of Anjou’.
After breakfast, your tour comes to an end. There is, however, the opportunity to book extra nights at your request or combine with the following tour: Paris – London.
We recommend flying to Paris (CDG) and returning from Paris (CDG).
£98 for 7 days
£266 for 7 days
£112 for 7 days
£266 for 7 days
£14 for 7 days
Loire Valley, France
Getting to Paris
By plane: Fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG). The RER B train runs every 10 minutes from the airport to central Paris, reaching Gare du Nord in around 30 minutes. From Paris, the Loire Valley is under 1 hour by TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Tours Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, with around 16 return services a day.
By train: Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord in around 2 hours 20 minutes. Cross Paris to Montparnasse (around 20 minutes by metro) and pick up a TGV to the Loire Valley. Total journey time from London is around 4 to 4.5 hours. You can also fly directly from London Stansted to Tours Val de Loire Airport with Ryanair.
By car: The Loire Valley is around 3.5 to 4 hours from Calais via the A26 to Paris and then the A10 south-west towards Tours. Having a car is useful for exploring the châteaux between cycling days.
Bikes are not included. You are welcome to bring your own bike or hire one. Please see our bike hire section for details.
Flights are not included. Please refer to the what's included section for full details.
We will confirm your booking within 48 hours of receiving your enquiry. Please wait for confirmation before booking flights or making other travel arrangements.
Most itineraries include cycling on most days, with some rest or shorter days built in. Please check the itinerary for day-by-day details.
The latest you can book is 9 days before departure. This gives us enough time to confirm arrangements and accommodation.
You will receive full travel details, including accommodation, meeting points and local contacts, 3 to 5 weeks before departure.
