Loire Valley Cycling through the 'Garden of France'

Château Country
We begin in Montrichard on the River Cher. As the trip is designed with flexibility in mind you can choose to do some optional cycle rides to the 17th century Château de Gue Pean or to the vineyards of the Cher region. We then cycle to Amboise via the beautiful Château de Chenonceau - built on a rocky plateau between the Loire and the Masse rivers. Leonardo da Vinci spent his last days here as a guest of the French king.

Gardens of the Loire
From the course of the Cher, we head south to the River Indre, cycling via Cormery - famous for its macaroons! - and reach the elegant town of Azay-le-Rideau. From here you may like to explore the pristine gardens of Villandry: a real gardener's dream, the flower beds burst with colours that cascade down terraces and ornamental plazas. In Azay itself, the medieval château, rising out of a wooded island, is also well worth a visit.

Medieval Chinon
Now following the Loire, we pedal to Chinon and the Vienne River, admiring as we go the 'Sleeping Beauty' Château d'Ussé with its fearsome turrets and towering chimneys. Our time is free in Chinon which allows you can wander through the old town (known for its medieval timber-framed houses and winding alleys), cycle to Fontevraud Abbey or perhaps follow a wine trail to try some of the light whites of the region.

Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1 - Arrive Chenonceaux

Day 2 - In Chenonceaux
Start the holiday with an exploration around Chenonceaux, or by cycling out towards Montrichard, where you can sample the stunning wines produced in the Cher region.

Day 3 - Cycle to Amboise
This trip along the River Cher passes through the village of Chissay and offers the chance to visit Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci lived out his days, and which is now a museum.

Day 4 - Cycle to Azay-le-Rideau
A longer day of cycling today, as you visit St Martin-le-Beau and Nitray to Cormery, hop across the River Indre, and maybe take a detour to Pont-de-Ruan and Sache.

Day 5 - Day in Azay-le-Rideau

Day 6 - Cycle to Chinon
On your way to Chinon you'll encounter the Château d'Ussé, famous for reputedly being the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale. You'll also encounter the famous Bourgeuil vineyards, known for the red wines they produce.

Day 7 - Day in Chinon
Explore the old town of Chinon and head up to the château, or bike the 'Wine Route' of Chinon southeast along the River Vienne. Alternatively, head out west and visit Fontevraud Abbey.

Day 8 - Tour ends Chinon

Is this trip for you?
You'll cycle an average of 39km a day, not including the optional day rides. Historic châteaux and towns are linked by quite, traffic-free country roads. You'll spend two nights in most hotels, with the choice of cycling as much or as little as you want on free days. You can ride independently or with group members. Cycling is 95% asphalt; 5% gravel tracks.

The trip is rated 'Easy'

Easy: This will generally involve cycling on flat and very slightly hilly terrain with minimal ascents. While this is open to everyone, make sure you have a reasonable level of fitness before you begin.