Loire Valley Bike Tour
Grand Châteaux & Regal Rivers
Cycle along the serene Loire River, dotted with magnificent châteaux and picture-perfect gardens. If you dream of the royal treatment, there’s no better place to be.
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 $5,899 - $6,349/person
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Bike quiet routes next to the Loire's rivers and through its fertile valley, green woodlands and charming villages
- Unwind at elegant castle-hotels in a World Heritage region beloved for its rich history and natural beauty
- Savor local cuisine and critically acclaimed wines, including Cabernet Franc and the crisp whites of Vouvray
- Explore the grand interiors and storybook facades of impressive châteaux that transport you to another time
- Explore the royal towns of Blois and Amboise, home to Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's final home
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start St-Pierre-des-Corps Airport & Travel Details
- Ride by the incomparable Château d'Ussé, the inspiration behind Charles Perrault's Sleeping Beauty, and enjoy lunch in the town of Rigny-Ussé
- Journey through quaint villages and fields of amber-colored wheat en route to Château Azay-le-Rideau
- Explore its lovely grounds and museum on a self-guided tour
- Experience joie de vivre as you cycle amid serene woodland to Château de Villandry and its magnificent gardens
- A mix of riverside paths and serene plateaus leads us back to the Indre River
- A beautiful dining room and expansive terraces elevate the flavors of classic French cuisine at our hospitable hotel.
Nights 1-2
Luxury Hotel
We're welcomed by the gracious Olivereau family at this elegant 19th-century castle-hotel overlooking the gorgeous Indre Valley. (pool)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Pedal through the heart of the Loire Valley to Vouvray
- Pause for a picnic lunch among the vineyards of one of France's most celebrated wine regions
- Continue to historic Amboise, a town beloved by French royalty and Leonardo da Vinci
- Explore its charming streets and riverside setting before gathering for dinner
- Settle into our elegant hotel in the center of town.
Night 3
Luxury Hotel
Located on the banks of the famous Loire River with panoramic views, this 18th-century residence is adorned with French décor and surrounded by Italian-style gardens. (pool)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Enjoy a beautiful ride to Blois, where Renaissance architecture and local culture converge on hilltop streets and in lively squares
- Discover Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, renowned for its annual International Garden Festival
- Ride through a UNESCO World Heritage landscape on portions of La Loire à Vélo
- Soak up the glamour of the stunning Château de Chenonceau on a private tour
- Wander the château's halls, brimming with rare tapestries and extraordinary paintings, and admire gardens designed by Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers
- Kayak beneath the arches of Chenonceau on the River Cher
- Embrace a cherished French tradition with a spirited game of pétanque.
Nights 4-5
Luxury Hotel
Built as a grand hunting lodge in the 19th century, this magnificent ivy-covered château enjoys a secluded setting amid tranquil parkland. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End St-Pierre-des-Corps Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 1-4
All breakfasts, 5 dinners, 5 lunches
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
