From Blois to Angers on the Castles of the Loire Valley by bike
Embark on an unforgettable cycle trip in the heart of the Loire Valley by bike, from Blois to Angers, with majestic castles, picturesque villages and enchanting panoramas. On quiet cycle paths, you will discover Chambord, Amboise, Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, Saumur… So many architectural gems nestled in a beautiful natural setting. Between forests, vineyards and river banks, enjoy the local gastronomy and the hospitality of the region. Treat yourself to this unique adventure, mixing culture, relaxation and gourmet pleasures, to create unforgettable memories.
Highlights of the stay on the Loire by bike:
- Medieval cities of Blois and Amboise
- Cities of Tours, Saumur and Angers
- Vineyards of Saumurois and Anjou
- Castle : Blois, Chambord, Amboise, Chenonceau, Chaumont, Villandry, Chinon, Angers, Saumur, Azay-le-Rideau
- The cycle paths of the Loire by bike
Day 1: arrival in Blois
At the heart of the Loire Valley, explore Blois with its rich historical heritage. The majestic castle, former residence of the kings of France, offers an exciting journey through different eras. Stroll through the picturesque streets and visit the Maison de la Magie, a museum dedicated to Robert-Houdin.
Overnight in Blois.
Day 2: Chambord / Cheverny / Sologne loop (40, 52 or 68 km)
To get warmed up on this first cycling day, several routes are available. Leave the Loire after following it for many kilometers on a pretty cycle path at the exit of Blois. You quickly arrive at the Domaine de Chambord with its imposing castle. If you want to extend the pleasure before returning to Blois, cycle to the dense forest of Sologne or to the castle of Cheverny.
Overnight in Blois.
Day 3: from Blois to Amboise (43 km)
You reach Amboise and its royal castle via small bucolic country roads and beautiful cycle paths. On the route, you can admire the castle of Chaumont-sur-Loire built in the middle of an incredible estate. Take the opportunity to visit the castle but also the "The Center of Arts and Nature" as well as the "The International Garden Festival".
Overnight in Amboise.
Day 4: from Amboise to Tours (59 km)
First stop of the day: the castle of Chenonceau, a magnificent edifice built directly on the Cher. You leave Amboise by cycling along the Loire before reaching the Cher that leads you to Tours. You cycle in the countryside, between fields and vineyards. The Capital of Touraine, Tours is well-known for its rich culture and its art of living. In the old town is home to the famous Place Plumereau is popular for its friendly atmosphere and its half-timbered houses. History lovers will appreciate the Saint-Gatien cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts. As for gourmets, they can taste the Sainte Maure de Touraine (goat cheese), the rillettes, rillons or the delicious local wines.
Overnight in Tours.
Day 5: from Tours to Azay-le-Rideau (66 km)
Get on your bike to ride along the Cher for several kilometres. On the river, you can see the « toues cabanées », emblematic boats of the Loire. On the way, you pass through the picturesque village of Savonnières before reaching the castle of Villandry. If the castle is magnificent, what can we say about its sumptuous gardens and its French-style vegetable garden ? Continue the adventure along the Loire and then the old Cher, stopping off at Langeais before reaching Azay-le-Rideau. In this small town there is an elegant Renaissance castle, built on an island in the Indre, a harmonious marriage between French tradition and Italian influence.
Overnight in Azay-le-Rideau.
Day 6: from Azay-le-Rideau to Saumur (71 km)
Follow the banks of the Indre to reach Bréhémont, a former harbour on the Loire, whose monumental dock tell you a lot about the prestigious past of the town. Then continue your route on the Loire levee to Ussé, where you will see the castle that inspired the tale of Sleeping Beauty. In Chinon, explore the royal fortress and stroll through the medieval streets, before taking the road again through the preserved bocage of Véron. Then follow the Loire to admire the villages of Candes-Saint-Martin and Montsoreau, cross the vineyards of Saumur Champigny, with remarkable troglodytes.
Overnight in Saumur.
Day 7: from Saumur to Angers (58 or 65 km)
This last stage is full of promise : leave Saumur by taking the cycle path that runs along the Loire and pass in front of the « Grandes Maisons des vins » of Saumur. You will then visit villages, each more charming than the last, with their tuffeau stone houses, their small churches or small harbours. Before arriving in Angers, you will have to make a choice :
- Short option : use the chain boat to cross the Authion and discover the « Parc des Ardoisières ». This former slate quarry has been boldly transformed into a park, providing a beautiful setting for these last few kilometres of cycling.
- Longue option : continue along the banks of the Loire through pretty villages and peaceful meadows. Bouchemaine, with its beautiful bourgeois residences is the last stop before entering the capital of the Dukes of Anjou.
Overnight in Angers.
Day 8: AngersEnd of your stay after breakfast. Angers is well-known for its medieval castle, home to the famous Apocalypse Tapestry. The historic streets, friendly atmosphere and green spaces invite you to stroll. The city, known for its "Angevin sweetness", has many museums you can visit, such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the David d'Angers Gallery. Stroll along the Maine to enjoy superb panoramas.
