This Loire Valley Cycling Tour was created to take you to another part of the region not covered by other trips, and do it at a reasonable rate. The tranquil waters of the Loire, Indre, and Cher rivers flow into one in the heart of this scenic region known for its vineyards, orchards, and magnificent castles. The flat-to-rolling terrain is perfect for cycling and is filled with trees and colors.
For many visitors, the Loire Valley conjures images from the fairy tales of childhood. This tour starts in Joue les Tours at the edge of Tours, an important cultural town with historical sites to explore. The cycling will take you to chateaus that are open to visit such as Azay le Rideau, Langeais, Chinon, Usse, and Saumur. You will also cycle through some important wine regions such as Chinon, and have the chance to explore some well-known gardens such as Villandry. All the best of the Loire Valley by bicycle!
To
see
The famous gardens of Villandry and castle, Azay castle, Château of Langeais, Château of Usse, Chinon castle and museums of chinon, Saumur castle
Gastronomy
Fricassee of snails with Sancerre, the Crottin of Chavignol, the Valencay, 1550 chicken with saffron, the Blois orchard, the rillette, the cremet d'Anjou, the caramandes, the tuffline
Wine
Muscadet, Pouilly Fume, Sancerre, the light red Saumur, Bourgueil, Chinon
Feedbacks
We very much enjoyed our self-guided cycling tour. We had great support and communication in the planning. Throughout our week everything went off as planned.
Mark B.
This was my second experience with Discover France and had, again, an amazing time with my children. If you want to discover, on your own, little cities in France, this is what you have to do.
Linda G.
Our first but certainly not our last trip to beautiful France! The routes were well laid out, the app worked well, the bikes were comfortable and the hotels were excellent.
Ingrid A.
We truly had a glorious time and only have compliments for you and your company. Equipment, information, assistance, accommodation were faultless and Solène at Discovery France took care of us from the first e-mail of enquiry until the end of the cycle trip. We truly can’t wait for our next adventure with Discover France. Anna.V
Hands down the best adventure organization I’ve ever worked with abroad. This will be my 5th time returning to the TdF in 2025 with Discover France. Gabriel and the reservation team do everything they can to make your trip exactly as you hope. If there’s something they can or cannot do they work with you all the way. It’s a very one-on-one, professional and reassuring process for reservations abroad.
The programs are incredibly memorable, with exclusive VIP access that exceeds any other TdF organizations. Their focus is the riding, course, and to make sure your experience on a bike is as good as it can possibly be. Other programs offer different bells and whistles to their TdF packages but absolutely nothing is as exclusive, personalized, and uniquely small-group as Discover France programs.
You do not need to be an expert rider for the programs. But experience and at least comfort on a bike is needed. The rides can also be tailored on a daily (or even hourly) basis to the rider/group skill, weather, overall energy level that day, and your personal preferences. Support vehicle with special French credentials allows for Discover France to provide a van with you the entire trip. Sun, clouds, rain, sleet/snow (yes…it’s the Pyrenees or Alps), hot and cold: there is always a vehicle that can help you along the way and offer a place to bring along your gear like the professionals.
Shout out to: Florentin and Titouan for spectacular rides and support expertise. Finally, Thomas and Aurelian are two of the most dedicated cycling enthusiasts and leaders of a one-of-kind organization. Their dedication and leadership is evident from the top down as all of the guides and employees seem to love their works as much as they do.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Basic : 2* or 3* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Standard : 3* or 4* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
J-1
Arrival in Joué-lès-Tours
Arrival to the SAINT PIERRE DES CORPS TGV station, located only 1h from Paris by train**.** Transfer on your own by taxi to Joue-les-Tours and settle at your charming hotel.
If you arrive early enough, you can spend your free time exploring the old city of Tours.
Accommodation : Chateau de Beaulieu*** - Joue les Tours
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Accommodation : Chateau de Beaulieu*** - Joue les Tours
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Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,Access to the Spa,dinner (no drinks)
J-2
From Tours to Azay-le-Rideau
Going first to Savonnieres and then to the famous gardens of Villandry, which were designed to be in complete harmony with the Renaissance architecture of the chateau. You will ride alongside the Cher and Loire Rivers and along the Loire a Velo route. Then you will continue to Azay le Rideau, your final destination for today, famous for its Chateau on the Indre River, originally built in the Middle Ages to protect the passage from the road going from Tours to Chinon. The long option gives you the opportunity to visit Sache, chateau of the famous writer Balzac.
Distances : 34 or 46 Km (21 or 28 mi)
Elevation : 200 or 250 m
Accommodation : Hotel de Biencourt*** - Azay le Rideau
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Accommodation : Le Grand Monarque**** - Azay-Le-Rideau
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Accommodation : Le Grand Monarque**** - Azay-Le-Rideau
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks),Wine tasting
Visit the most modern winery of the Loire Valley and learn everything about wine growing.
J-3
From Azay le Rideau to Chinon via Langeais
Ride from Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon for a full day of cycling around castles. Your first stop is in Langeais, where the Chateau was the temporary lair of lawless armed bands during the Hundred Years War. After this Chateau, continue to a different theme, Chateau of Usse, a fairytale castle which is reputed to have inspired the story of Sleeping Beauty and a "must" for all Walt Disney's fans. You will then finish by riding to Chinon, house to a few interesting museums, where you can taste some of the local wine, made famous in the writings of Francois Rabelais.
Ride from Chinon to Saumur, home of a beautiful castle and delicious wine. You will start your ride to Saumur with a stop at the Abbey of Fontevraud, one of the most beautiful and largest abbeys in Europe. Not to miss is the “Tuffaut” troglodytic site (lime stone caves) and the picturesque Turquant, and its unique village of workshops of local artists and craftmen located within the limestone caves. Then as you approach Saumur, you will begin to see the magnificent Chateau overlooking the Loire River and surrounded by endless vineyards.
Distances : 43 or 55 Km (26 or 34 mi).
Elevation : 250 or 380m
Accommodation : Le Londres Hotel & Appartements*** - Saumur
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Accommodation : Hotel Anne d'Anjou**** - Saumur
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Accommodation : Chateau le Prieure**** - Chenehutte
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,Wine tasting
You can take your time getting started in the morning, enjoy breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Trains are available from Saumur to Paris or to other destinations.
Included : breakfast
CUSTOMIZED TOUR
This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Arrival city is Tours/Joue les Tours, which accessible via train from Paris Montparnasse to St Pierre des Corps. 1hour 10 min by TGV
Return from Saumur to Montparnasse, 2 hours 20min.
The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30unisex (or equivalent)
All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)
With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Rear pannier
Helmet
Odometer
Lock
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next
road.
Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump.
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise.
Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)
A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.
Available sizes :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Details
Included
ACCOMODATIONS
- 4 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast at each hotel, 2 dinners included (Standard & Upgraded), no dinner included with the Basic package
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
GEAR
- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)
SUPPORT
- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)
TRANSFER
- All luggage transfers
Not included
- Airfare to and from the trip
- Lodging before and after the trip
- Drinks
- Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.
- Multirisk travel insurance
Other questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
In the heart of the city of Tours, hotel Colbert gives you all the comfort of a country house hotel. The hotel offers 15 spacious rooms decorated in various styles. Rooms are either on the quiet site (garden oriented) or the picturesque street side, lined with its restaurants. In addition to the bicycle parking and the free WIFI connection, each room is equipped with an office, a private bathroom, and a TV. The Hotel Colbert is conveniently located on Colbert Street, the oldest street of Tours, with its numerous restaurants and adapted to all kind of budgets.Should you need a night walk or a morning jog, The hotel is at walking distance from the banks of the Loire or the inevitable plaza of Tours: “Place Plumereau".
http://www.tours-hotel-colbert.fr/
This oasis of tranquillity, hidden away in the countryside, has welcomed guests for rest and relaxation since 1976. The Château de Beaulieu, a 3-star hotel in the heart of the Loire Châteaux region, is well known for its chic and relaxed style. You will be staying in an elegant family residence, where the attentive and personal service will ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible. The hotel boasts elegant rooms, 9 of which are located in the castle itself. They all combine stylish furniture, high-quality fabrics, soft lighting and modern bathrooms. The hotel's chef is proud to introduce you to his refined yet simple cuisine. The restaurant menu is inspired by the daily market, regional products, the herbs grown in the château’s vegetable garden and the rhythm of the seasons. You will find some great French classic dishes on the menu, such as the Sainte Catherine de Fierbois squab with a foie gras crust, and a warm Grand-Marnier soufflé.
http://www.chateaudebeaulieu37.com/uk/index.php
This oasis of tranquillity, hidden away in the countryside, has welcomed guests for rest and relaxation since 1976. The Château de Beaulieu, a 3-star hotel in the heart of the Loire Châteaux region, is well known for its chic and relaxed style. You will be staying in an elegant family residence, where the attentive and personal service will ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible. The hotel boasts elegant rooms, 9 of which are located in the castle itself. They all combine stylish furniture, high-quality fabrics, soft lighting and modern bathrooms. The hotel's chef is proud to introduce you to his refined yet simple cuisine. The restaurant menu is inspired by the daily market, regional products, the herbs grown in the château’s vegetable garden and the rhythm of the seasons. You will find some great French classic dishes on the menu, such as the Sainte Catherine de Fierbois squab with a foie gras crust, and a warm Grand-Marnier soufflé.
http://www.chateaudebeaulieu37.com/uk/index.php
Built rue Balzac in the village of Azay-le-Rideau, the hotel de Biencourt was during the 16th century a hotel named White Horse. It later became a place where the real tennis was played before becoming under the Second Empire a school for boys and the village first girls class. Ideally located in the heart of Azay-le-Rideau, just a stone’s throw from the castle, you will find here the charm of the past with all the comfort you would expect when away from home. The courtyard garden is an oasis of peace to relax after a long day of discovering. L’Hôtel de Biencourt provides 17 comfortable and luminous rooms. To get your day in Azay-le-Rideau off to a good start, we offer you a delicious buffet breakfast : various pastries and breads, fruits, yogurt farm, organic goat cheese, tomme cheese, meats, muesli, honey and jams, apple juice and various hot beverages.
http://www.hotelbiencourt.fr/en/
This ancient post house from the 18th century has become a charming boutique hotel. The tuffeau stone – a very clear Loire Valley limestone typical of the Renaissance chateaux – and the exposed beams give to this boutique hotel a special charm. For your comfort, all the rooms have a free Wi-Fi connection, a LCD TV screen with international channels, a personal safe, and air conditioning.. Its courtyard, with its centennial trees, is an oasis of peace.Nested in the centre of the lovely little town of Azay-le-Rideau, and just 150m away from its famous and charming chateau, the hotel is ideally situated to visit the Loire Valley and its greatest castles.
http://www.legrandmonarque.com/
This ancient post house from the 18th century has become a charming boutique hotel. The tuffeau stone – a very clear Loire Valley limestone typical of the Renaissance chateaux – and the exposed beams give to this boutique hotel a special charm. For your comfort, all the rooms have a free Wi-Fi connection, a LCD TV screen with international channels, a personal safe, and air conditioning.. Its courtyard, with its centennial trees, is an oasis of peace.Nested in the centre of the lovely little town of Azay-le-Rideau, and just 150m away from its famous and charming chateau, the hotel is ideally situated to visit the Loire Valley and its greatest castles.
http://www.legrandmonarque.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
Ideally situated in the heart of old Chinon, nestled in the quiet and historic neighborhood of the Saint Mexme collegiate church, Hotel Diderot welcomes you into a 15th century limestone mansion, restructured in the 17th and 19th centuries. Here you will find peace and tranquility ; you will experience the warm hospitality of a “ tourangelle ” residence, in the land of Renaissance writer François Rabelais, amidst the splendid vineyards of the Val de Loire, the landscape dotted with magnificent castles and unique gardens. At the Hotel Diderot, each room is uniquely arranged and decorated. The bedding is of superior quality ; the cleanliness of the bathrooms is impeccable. In the morning, you will enjou a marvelous breakfast, offering a dizzying selection of homemade jams, delicious French breads, brioche and croissants, locally produced fresh goat cheese, honey and fruit juice.
http://www.hoteldiderot.com/
Le Londres Hotel & Apartments is ideally located at the heart of the town centre, within walking distance of the château, pedestrian streets and restaurants. Le Londres has perpetuated the tradition of excellent entertaining since 1837. Since July 2005, Le Londres hotel has been undergoing sweeping renovation works. Inspired by its glorious past when it was the Grand hôtel de Londres, we have completely refurbished our hotel rooms with a strong desire to faithfully render the historical spirit of the place by choosing plush textures and noble materials (wood and iron works, tuffeau walls) whilst providing a strong dose of modern comfort in order to perpetuate the nice story that began 175 years ago!
http://www.lelondres.com/
This beautiful XVIII century mansion, situated on the banks of the Loire river, walking distance to the historical city center, nestled beneath the Castle which reminds the « Very Rich Hours of Duke de Berry », still echoes with balzaciens passions and military love affairs. The façade, listed as a “Historical Monument”, its sumptuous staircase surmounted with a“Trompe l’Oeil” ceiling, drawings of Percier & Fontaine, architects of the emperor Napoleon 1st … so many testimonies of the passed which you will contemplate with emotion. The hotel Anne d'Anjou has 42 rooms overlooking the Loire or the Castle.
http://www.hotel-anneanjou.com/
Chateau Le Prieuré Saumur - La Maison Younan offers accommodation in Chènehutte-les-Tuffeaux, 21 km from the Biopark of Doué-la-Fontaine. It offers a bar, a gourmet restaurant, a terrace with panoramic views of the Loire River and meeting rooms.
All rooms have flat-screen cable TV, a desk and a minibar. Their private bathrooms come with a bathtub, hairdryer and free toiletries.
Guests can enjoy meals at the hotel's gourmet restaurant, Castellane, upon reservation.
https://www.prieure.com/en/
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DURATION 5 days/4 nights
PRICE FROM 1200 €
COLLECTION
Cycling - Standard
DIFFICULTY
CATEGORY
Highlights
To
see
Gastronomy
Wine
Feedbacks
