3 Must-see towns in loire valley

The Loire Valley, one of the best regions for a bike tour in France, embodies all the charm and magic one envisions about the country. From imposing castles to quaint villages and sprawling vineyards producing some of the world’s finest wines, the Loire Valley captivates visitors. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, the region is home to several historic towns. Here are three must-visit towns in the Loire Valley.

1. Tours

Located along the lower reaches of the Loire River, Tours is one of the largest city in central France. This charming old town has a long, rich history, famously marked by the Battle of Tours in 732. Present-day testaments to the area’s past include the Tours Cathedral, constructed between 1170 and 1547, with its impressive towers standing 87 meters high. Renamed the Saint Gatien Cathedral, it offers visitors a fascinating glimpse back in time. Tours is also home to the splendid Jardin Botanique de Tours, a botanical garden spanning 5 hectares. If you visit in October, you might witness the famed Paris-Tours cycling race.

2. Saumur

Situated between the Thouet and Loire Rivers, Saumur is renowned for its delectable wine and locally grown mushrooms. The area’s chalky soil, called tuffeau, is ideal for winemakers who build caves into the ground to age their wine. Many of the town’s buildings are constructed using tuffeau stone. Visitors can explore the famous Château de Saumur, a 10th-century castle that is one of France’s most popular historical monuments. The ancient church, Notre Dame de Nantilly, the oldest in the town, houses an impressive collection of tapestries in its Romanesque nave..

3. Amboise

Nestled on the banks of the beautiful Loire River, Amboise is rich in history and culture. Once the location of the royal court, it was home to leaders like King François I, Charles VIII, and Louis XII. It is also where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last days at the manor house Clos Lucé. Today, visitors flock to the Château d’Amboise, a favorite castle of many French kings, built in the 11th century and renovated over the centuries. The town also hosts a weekly market every Friday and Saturday in front of Max Ernst’s famous turtle fountain.

Ask anyone who has visited France about their favorite place, and you’ll get a dozen different answers. However, the Loire Valley stands out as a region that provides a truly authentic French experience. Rich with history, overflowing with culture, and boasting some of the most breathtaking beauty on earth, the Loire Valley is everything you could ask for in a French excursion.
Bike tours in the Loire Valley offer an exceptional way to explore this enchanting region, allowing you to immerse yourself in its scenic landscapes and charming towns at your own pace. If a trip to this lovely region is on your travel itinerary, be sure to include stops in Tours, Saumur, and Amboise for a truly memorable experience.

You can also discover where to go cycling in the French Alps, where to go cycling in Provence, where to go cycling in Normandy, where to go cycling in Alsace.

3 Must-see towns in loire valley

1. Tours

2. Saumur

3. Amboise

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3 Must-see towns in loire valley

1. Tours

2. Saumur

3. Amboise

NEWSLETTER

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Following us on social media

Exploring our travel guide for exclusive tips, updates and special offers

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