Normandy to Loire Valley Bike Tour
Normandy beyond D-Day and the Essence of Loire Valley
From sandy beaches and Norman bocage to the rolling landscapes of the Loire Valley, experience a rich tapestry of history and culture in these two exceptional regions of France.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
From $5,999 - $6,099/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Visit World War II monuments and D-Day beaches, and tour the Normandy American Cemetery with a local historian
- Bike through a landscape fit for royalty, graced with Renaissance and classical châteaux
- Relax at elegant hotels and experience the richness of life in the French countryside as you admire Norman estates and explore charming riverside villages
- Discover Château de Chaumont, host of the annual International Garden Festival feautring innovative installations from around the world
- Expand your wine knowledge during a class and tasting focused on Loire wines and neighboring regions
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Bayeux Airport & Travel Details
- Kick off your adventure in Bayeux, one of Normandy's best-preserved historic towns
- Meet a local historian for a private tour of Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, a moving tribute to the Americans who lost their lives during the D-Day campaign
- Bike along Normandy's scenic coast, pausing to explore the preserved seaside battery at Longues-sur-Mer
- Settle into our welcoming countryside.
Night 1
Deluxe Hotel
This charming 18th-century château nestled between the town of Bayeux and Omaha Beach is a delightful countryside getaway. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Explore the historic D-Day beaches on a ride through Normandy's rolling countryside and along the coast toward Deauville
- Check out the remains of the Mulberry harbours and continue biking along the rugged Côte de Nacre
- Explore an area of Normandy beloved for its elegant manors and delicious cider and cheeses
- Ride across the Pegasus Bridge, whose capture marked the first operation of the D-Day landings
- Explore the colorful harbor and maritime heritage of Honfleur
- Stop in one of the enchanting Norman villages that line our route
- Sample delicious Pommeau, a local aperitif
- Fall in love with the Norman countryside on a spin through picture-perfect Pays d’Auge.
Nights 2-3
Luxury Hotel
A famed hotel in the center of Deauville (just minutes from the train station), housed in a stately Anglo-Norman manoir. (pool)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Start your Loire adventure at the Château de Chaumont, surrounded by lush lawns and intricate garden paths
- Cycle to Blois, once home to French royalty
- Learn the art of pairing food and wine during a wine class and tasting of Loire and other regional vintages
- Ride your bike along the river’s picturesque north bank as you journey toward the gorgeous Château de Chambord, the valley’s largest castle
- Spend some time relaxing by the pool or pamper yourself with a spa visit at our five-star hotel before enjoying dinner in a kitchen run by two-Michelin-star chef Christophe Hay.
Nights 4-5
Luxury Hotel
Boasting some of the best views of the Loire Valley's idyllic scenery, Chef Christophe Hay’s 17-century property overlooks the regal city of Blois and a lazy section of the river. This sophisticated hotel is known for its exquisite contemporary design, relaxing atmosphere and creative cuisine. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Saint-Pierre-des-Corps Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 1-3
All breakfasts, four lunches, four dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Fully equipped Backroads titanium bike, Wahoo GPS device, helmet and accessories
Bike fitting and equipment support throughout your trip
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads cycling jersey, t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
