Arrive in the beautiful Renaissance town of Blois. Once home to illusionist Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, Blois offers cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and the impressive Royal Castle with its iconic spiral staircase. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming old town at your own pace.

Cycle through shaded forest paths and peaceful riverside roads to reach Onzain and the elegant Château de Chaumont, once visited by Nostradamus. Continue to Amboise, a town that blends natural beauty with genius: visit the château where Leonardo da Vinci is buried and explore his final residence at Clos Lucé.

Shorter options available by train.

Venture through the Amboise forest and golden fields to the magnificent Château de Chenonceau, arching gracefully over the River Cher. After exploring its lush gardens and grand halls, return to Amboise through tranquil countryside.

Return can be shortened by train.

Cycle past peaceful farmland, red poppies, and mighty oak trees en route to Chitenay. Along the way, discover quiet villages and hidden gems like Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, with its distinctive stone carvings.

Today’s ride takes you through picturesque country lanes to Cheverny, a castle famed for inspiring Hergé’s Marlinspike Hall in The Adventures of Tintin. Continue to Beauregard for its striking “Gallery of the Illustrious” before a final stretch through Roussy Forest back to Blois.

Set off for Chambord, one of the Loire’s most iconic castles and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Pedal through quiet lanes and forested parkland to this vast estate, where legend says Leonardo da Vinci had a hand in its design. After visiting the castle and its grounds, return to Blois for your final evening.