6 days
From US $1,495
Self-guided Loire Valley in Style Bike Tour
Discover the enchanting heart of France by bike on this unforgettable journey through the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its majestic châteaux, historic villages, and world-class wines. What makes this tour truly special is the choice of fine accommodations that are sure to make this journey memorable.
Over 6 days, you’ll cycle along the scenic Loire à Vélo and Cher Valley routes, passing vineyards, riverside towns, and architectural marvels. From the royal city of Blois to the fairy-tale towers of Chenonceau, the lively markets of Amboise, and the grand splendor of Chambord, every day reveals new treasures.
Whether you’re winding through medieval villages, tasting wine in troglodyte cellars, or marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, this self-guided tour offers the perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure, at your own pace.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Blois
Blois
easy to moderate
40 km / 25 mi
5
Min. 4, Max. 12
Aéroport de Tours Val de Loire (TUF)
Aéroport de Tours Val de Loire (TUF)
Highlights
Iconic Châteaux at Every Turn
Explore some of the Loire Valley’s most famous castles, including the storybook Château de Chenonceau, the majestic Château de Chambord, and the elegant Château de Cheverny—each with its own unique history and charm.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Blois | Hotel Mercure Centre (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Amboise | Au Charme Rabelaisie (4-Star) | B | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Tours | The Artist (4-Star) | B | 28 km / 17 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Chenonceaux | Auberge au Bon Laboureu (5-Star) | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Cheverny | Relais des Trois Chateau (4-Star) | B | 51 km / 32 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Blois | B | 43 km / 27 mi | cycling |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Blois
Welcome to Blois! Upon arrival, check in at your hotel where your personalized travel folder will be waiting at reception. This includes your program, vouchers, luggage tags, and local tourist information to get you started.
Take the rest of the day to explore the charming cobblestone streets of Blois. Overlooking the city is the stunning Royal Château de Blois, a masterpiece blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architecture, once home to French royalty. Don’t miss a visit to the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin (House of Magic), an enchanting museum dedicated to the famous illusionist that promises surprises for visitors of all ages.
Day 2: Amboise
Today, enjoy a scenic ride along the dedicated Loire à Vélo cycle paths, winding through picturesque villages nestled along the river. Your first highlight is the Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, majestically perched above the Loire and known for its art installations and stunning gardens.
Continue your ride downstream to the enchanting town of Amboise, where the Royal Château of Amboise awaits—once a residence of French kings and now a treasure trove of Renaissance history and architecture.
Elevation: +261 m / -396 m
Day 3: Tours
Today’s gentle ride follows the Loire River, leading you through peaceful countryside and into the charming wine village of Montlouis-sur-Loire, known for producing some of the region’s finest white wines.
Take the opportunity to visit one of the local wine cellars, often nestled within fascinating troglodyte homes—traditional dwellings and caves carved into the soft tuffeau limestone.
Continue your journey to Tours, where you'll have time to explore the city's vibrant Old Town, the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Elevation: +249 m / -241 m
Day 4: Chenonceaux
Today’s ride takes you through the beautiful Cher Valley, with the magnificent Château de Chenonceau as your ultimate destination. Often called the “Ladies’ Château” for the influential women who shaped its history, this architectural jewel spans the River Cher with unmatched elegance.
Enjoy a scenic and peaceful route before arriving in Chenonceaux, where the château’s rich Renaissance heritage and picturesque setting offer a truly unforgettable experience.
Elevation: +289 m / -270 m
Day 5: Cheverny
Begin your day cycling along the peaceful banks of the River Cher, arriving in the charming medieval village of Montrichard. From here, leave the Cher Valley behind as you ride through the rolling vineyards of Touraine.
En route, take time to visit the Château du Gué-Péan and the Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, a beautifully preserved 15th-century fortified castle that showcases the region’s distinctive architectural style.
Your journey concludes in Cheverny, a village famed for its grand château and deep ties to French wine and history.
Elevation: +289 m / -270 m
Day 6: Blois
Conclude your Loire Valley adventure in true royal style with visits to two of the region’s most celebrated châteaux.
Start your day at the refined Château de Cheverny, famed for its exquisitely furnished rooms and timeless elegance. Then continue to the majestic Château de Chambord, a true icon of French Renaissance architecture. With its 440 rooms, remarkable double-helix staircase, and expansive grounds, Chambord impresses with both scale and splendor—built under King François I in the heart of a protected natural estate.
In the afternoon, ride to Blois, where your unforgettable cycling journey comes to a graceful close.
Elevation: +260 m / -241 m
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.
Hotel Mercure Centre
Located in the heart of Blois, the Mercure Blois Centre offers modern comfort just steps from the Royal Château, Maison de la Magie, and the Loire River. Guests can unwind in the relaxation area featuring a pool, sauna, hammam, and jacuzzi, or enjoy regional cuisine and fine wines at the stylish Wine Not? bar and Le Quai restaurant. Ideal for both leisure and business, the hotel also features a fitness center and meeting spaces.
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $850
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $120
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Moustache 89 or similar
Included in your trip price
Peugeot Active Plus or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
The closest airport To Blois is Tours (Aéroport de Tours Val de Loire ), located 65 kms ( 40 mi) away. This is a small airport with a few international flights.
There are trains going from Tours (St-Pierre-des-Corps) to Blois (~30 min).
If you arrive by one of the Paris airports, you may take a shuttle to Paris’s Austerlitz train station, and then take a train from Paris to Blois (about 1.5 hours).
You can also take a train from Paris (Austerlitz train station) to Blois. There are 3 such direct trains in a day. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a regional train from Paris Austerlitz to Orléans, then change to Blois-Chambord (about 8 trains per day, about 35€, takes 1h30).
Blois-Chambord train station is 15mn walk to the city center, and about 15mn walk to the hotels.
The castle in Blois is situated about an 8 min. on foot from the railway station.
Departure
The tour ends in Blois. You can take a train from the Blois-Chambord station to Paris.
Weather
The best time to go cycling in the Loire Valley is during late spring, from May to June, and early autumn, from September to early October. These months offer the most pleasant weather conditions, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.
In late spring, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for long rides through blooming gardens and flourishing vineyards.
Early autumn is equally appealing, with temperatures between 13°C and 23°C (55°F to 73°F), dry sunny days, and the added charm of golden foliage and grape harvests in full swing. Both seasons also benefit from fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months.
While July and August bring warmer weather—ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)—they are also the most crowded and expensive times to visit, as they coincide with the peak holiday season in France.
Winter, on the other hand, tends to be too cold and damp for enjoyable cycling, with temperatures falling between 3°C and 10°C (37°F to 50°F) and shorter daylight hours.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Best
July
Good
August
Good
September
Best
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
You will mostly cycle on asphalt vineyards roads, countryside roads, cycle paths
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
