Cycling Tours
A cycling tour along the Castles of the Loire is an unforgettable experience. The romantic Castles, Fortresses, Churches, Monasteries and Gardens in the Loire Valley, steeped in history, are the centrepiece and charm of this unique region. Thanks to the combination of architecture and nature, the region is perfect for a cycling tour. Add to this the many anecdotes and historical lore of when France's Kings chose this area as their place of residence. A perfect backdrop for a cycling trip with many sections cycling along France's longest river and its pristine banks. Admire the varied creations of Renaissance gardens and French garden concepts while cycling in a relaxed way on gently undulating routes. Be enchanted by the Castles of the Loire during the bike tour and enjoy the culinary delights that France has to offer. A journey for all senses. Tour Profile Level 1-2: The route takes you through gently rolling countryside with only a few climbs, although a certain level of basic fitness will enable you to enjoy the countryside and its many attractions. The route runs mainly along cycle paths, service roads and quiet side roads.
Today you will arrive individually in Tours, in the historical centre of Touraine.
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The River Cher takes you on your way to Castle Villandry with its terraced gardens. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous gardens with shady paths, arbours decorated with flowers, fountains and the artistically arranged vegetable garden will impress even the most critical visitor. A few kilometres further on your route takes you from the banks of the Cher for to the banks of the Loire, where the next castle, Castle Langeais, awaits you. The fortified tower, which was used exclusively for military purposes, has a commanding view of the river and the surrounding countryside. At the edge of the dark, mysterious forest of Chinon lies Castle Ussé, 'The Sleeping Beauty Castle'. Your journey continues along small villages and along side roads to Chinon. Meals: Breakfast
Today, you reach the Village of Candes-Saint-Martin. At the spot where Saint Martin died, a splendid Romanesque Church was built. In Montsoreau the Vienne joins the mighty Loire, an impressive natural spectacle. Your journey continues through well tended vineyards to Fontevraud l’Abbaye. Nowhere else in the world will you encounter such an extensive, well preserved Medieval Monastery as in Fontevraud l'Abbaye. The return journey to Chinon takes you along literary paths. On the way you pass the birthplace of the famous author Francois Rabelais as well as cycling through the valley, which was the setting for his famous work 'Gargantua'. Meals: Breakfast
Today, we leave Chinon with its Medieval Alleys and continue northwards. The route takes you through ancient vineyards and isolated villages to Crissay, which with its 15th Century houses, is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Today's route also includes a Castle, one of the finest. Azay-le-Rideau, the perfect Renaissance Castle! Balzac described it as a diamond with a thousand facets, set in the River Indre. What more is there to say? Spend the night here in the village and have the opportunity to enjoy the magic of the Castle with its impressive cultural events. Meals: Breakfast
Today's journey includes a scenic highlight, through the romantic river scenery along the Indre, you come to the lovely small Town of Montbazon. There is a short climb to overcome, over a ridge to the valley of the River Cher. Continue along meadow paths beside the Cher towards the village of Blere and on to your overnight accommodation in the historical town of Chenonceaux. The Castle of Chenonceau is the most spectacular of all the Loire Castles and is located in an unique position with a two storey gallery spanning the River and with the impressive Castle gardens stretching out in front of it. Meals: Breakfast
Today, cycle along many Loire Castles such as Montrichard, Cheverny and Villesavin to Castle Chambord. The 'Domaine de Chambord' extends as far as the eye can see. The walls of the largest and most magnificent residence in the Loire are visible through the trees from far away, the immortal legacy of a disloyal King. The choice is yours! Meals: Breakfast
The river flows gently between golden, shimmering sandbanks. A characteristic feature of this region are the cliff dwellings, built into the soft Limestone, so that the only evidence of their existence was the smoke rising from their fires. You cross the Loire to visit the King of all Castles, Castle Amboise. It hosted five Kings and a Roman Emperor. A genius of the 16th Century, Leonardo da Vinci also spent his last years here. Along hidden paths and through vineyards and past wine cellars, you cycle through Rochecorbon towards Tours. Meals: Breakfast
C'est la vie! Today your journey to the Castles of the Loire has come to an end. After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to one of the most charming, delightful Regions of France. Meals: Breakfast
Tour Prices are per person twin share in Australian Dollars. Conditions apply and group tours are subject to change and availability. Prices are subject to currency fluctuations. (rr)
