Cycling
Castles in the Loire Valley
- FR005 / France
- Cycling Cycling tours Cycling holiday with accommodation in selected facilities, luggage transport, assistance. Details
- Self-guided Self-guided Travel at your own pace following maps, roadbooks and information material. When travelling, you can always count on our assistance.
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Comfort and accommodation
Four levels of comfort to describe the different types of accommodation.
Find out more about comfort on this trip under comfort and departures.
- May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
- 7 days
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- linear from Orléans to Tours
- entrance to castles included
- Discount for 3rd person in room
Highlights
A bike trip designed for those who love cycling, but also want to enjoy one of the Loire's most exciting historical periods: the French Renaissance. The châteaux of Chambord, Chenonceaux and Villandry with its majestic three-story gardens are ready to open their doors, while the cozy towns along the way allow you to discover the famous French cuisine, including fine wines and tempting local dishes. Et voilà la Loire!
- Entrance to the castles of Chambord, Chenonceaux and Villandry included
- The local wines, dishes and cheeses
- The charm of cycling in a valley dotted with more than 300 castles
What awaits you
A week of cycling of medium difficulty and daily stages of about 50 km. The routes are not particularly challenging, apart from some hilly sections that require good physical fitness and cycling habits. You ride mostly on bike paths, low-traffic paved roads and short sections of dirt road.
1. Arrival and first overnight stay in Orléans, the city of Joan of Arc.
Individual arrival in Orléans, a charming city on the banks of the Loire River. We recommend you to explore its charming old town, strolling among the typical half-timbered houses and admiring the most important monuments, such as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.
2. On the pedals to charming Blois, passing through Meung-sur-Loire and Beaugency
Start cycling along the Loire, riding along stretches of bike path and back roads. Reach the hamlet Meung-sur-Loire, famous for the Château de La Ferté Saint-Aubin, nicknamed the “castle with two faces.” Then continue to the castle in the medieval town Beaugency, known for its original attic with an “inverted boat” roof. The day’s destination is the charming town of Blois, with its splendid stone bridge over the Loire. Upon arriving in town you can visit the castle of the same name and explore the streets of the old town and Saint Louis Cathedral with its characteristic spires.
3. Circular tour to the fairy-tale castle of Chambord
Today you ride enveloped in a landscape rich in water and a rural atmosphere, to the charming little town of St. Dyé, an ancient river port. From here you continue south, into the heart of the countryside, until you reach the forest surrounding one of the Loire’s most incredible châteaux, as well as its largest: the Château de Chambord. The majestic building welcomes you with its unique and curious architecture. Take time to visit this architectural marvel by wandering around the labyrinth of spaces and rooms and walking the two unusual staircases, which turn in the same direction without ever meeting.
4. To the Chateau de Chaumont and Amboise, the home of Leonardo da Vinci
In the morning leave the town of Blois and cycle along the forest to the village of Onzain and the charming Château de Chaumont, where Catherine de’ Medici used to receive many astrologers including the famous Nostradamus. From here continue along the left bank of the river to Amboise, where you can visit the castle of the same name, which houses the relics of Leonardo Da Vinci and his house, where he spent the last three years of his life.
5. The Castle of Chenonceau and arrival in Tours
Today, through the woods of Amboise, you reach the Château de Chenonceau, also known as “The Ladies’ Castle,” because all the women who lived there left their mark. The chateau awaits you with open doors for a journey through time: visit the exquisite rooms with attention to detail, the gallery overlooking the river, and the museum collection, which also includes a selection of 16th-century Flanders tapestries. Follow the waterway and after a stop at Nitray Castle, with its incredible cellars, reach the delightful town of Tours.
6. Circular tour to discover the gardens of Villandry Castle
Today you ride along the strip of land between the two rivers, Loire and Cher, to reach the Renaissance chateau of Villandry, famous for its tidy gardens. Six in total, laid out on three levels, each with a particular theme and architecture: the Sun Garden, the Kitchen Garden, the Water Garden, the Ornamental Garden…The entire park is maintained and cared for using natural methods, without the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers. The ride continues along the Cher River and takes you back to Tours for your last evening in the Loire. If you haven’t done it yet, it’s time to taste the famous crepes!
7. End of the tour in Tours
After breakfast, end of the tour. Before saying goodbye to Tours, drop by the lively les Halles de Tours market or a “guinguette,” typical taverns, to experience the convivial spirit of the area and taste its food and wine.
You will sleep in 3*/4* hotels (French standard). The facilities are easily accessible and located near major points of interest. Breakfast is always included.
2025
Departures on Saturday
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Accommodation
- 6 nights hotel accommodation
- Tourist taxes
Meals
- 6 breakfasts
Luggage transfer
Your luggage will be transported from hotel to hotel starting from the first day of the standard tour until the last day of the tour.
For the luggage transportation we accept only 1 piece of luggage per person with max. 20 kg.
The service is not included in case of extra nights before or after the standard tour.
Before your departure, you will receive detailed guidance on allowable baggage, luggage labels, service hours.
Tour information
Before departure you will receive by email:
- the link to download the tour information material in Pdf (Tour notes and Final tour details)
- the hotel list
- the hotel vouchers to show to the hotel reception upon arrival
- the link to download the App including maps, roadbook, points of interest and GPS tracks (you can use the App offline, too)
- the entrance tickets for the castels Chambord, Chenonceau and Villandry
When you arrive at the first hotel you will find the luggage labels.
Assistance
In the Final Tour Details you will find the contact phone numbers you can call during the tour in case of emergency.
Additional services included
- Entrance ticket to the castles of Chambord, Chenonceau and Villandry
Cancellation policy
In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at the place of destination or in its immediate surrounding area and having a substantial impact on the execution of the package or on the transport of travellers towards the destination, the traveller has the right to withdraw from the agreement before using the package, without paying withdrawal costs.
In all the other cases of withdrawal from the travel agreement, the traveller is always required to pay a withdrawal penalty. Read more
Withdrawal penalties
- 20% up to 30 days prior to departure date
- 25% from 29 to 21 days prior to departure date
- 50% from 20 to 14 days prior to departure date
- 80% from 13 to 6 days prior to departure date
- 100% from 5 days prior to departure date and no-show
Round trip
Travel to and from start and finish points not included
To pay on the spot
- Meals not mentioned in the section “What’s included”
- Tips
Rental bikes and accessories
You can rent Girolibero bikes and accessories.
You can also cycle with your own bike, just make sure that all parts are functioning properly.
The helmet is mandatory until the age of 12; we recommend bringing your own.
Additional excluded services
- Accommodation in single room
- Extra nights
It is possible to book extra nights in Orléans and Tours before or after the tour. Rental bikes are not included in case of extra nights. - Transfer
Is is possible to book a return transfer from Tours to Orléans (on request) - Everything not mentioned in the section “What’s included”
You can rent the bike type that suits you best. You will find it at the starting point of the tour and you have to return it at the end of the last cycling stage: easy, isn’t it? Touring bikes, electric bikes, tandems, accessories: our mechanics know them down to the last bolt, assemble them and continually overhaul them at our headquarters or at the nearest base of operations. The rental of Girolibero bikes includes insurance against theft and irreparable damage. See Girolibero bikes in detail.
Unisex touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- the only one suitable with children’s accessories
Unisex touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- the only one suitable with children’s accessories
Specifically assembled by our mechanics, our touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour. Furthermore, thanks to the step-through frame, getting on and off your bike is easier.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- repair kit (1 per room)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- lock
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Bosch unisex e-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Bosch unisex e-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Our e-bike is the right choice if you do not feel trained enough to spend more days on a saddle. You can easily adjust the assistance of the electric motor: from a mild pedaling support, to a more intense boost, which is especially useful on starts and uphill climbs. The battery charge covers an entire cycling stage, or even more if you don’t use it at full power all the time, and you can recharge it at the end of the day at the hotel .
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- frame lock
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- battery charger
- battery key
- repair kit
- lock
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Men's touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Men's touring bike
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Specifically assembled by our mechanics, our touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- repair kit (1 per room)
- lock
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
On guided tours, the handlebar bag and repair kit are only provided to those who ride individually.
Repair Kit
Kit includes:
- 1 pump
- 1 inner tube
- 2 allen keys
- tyre levers
- patch
- glue
Repair Kit
Kit includes:
- 1 pump
- 1 inner tube
- 2 allen keys
- tyre levers
- patch
- glue
A repair kit (one for every two bikes) containing what is needed to change the inner tube in case of a puncture is provided for each reservation.
Ortlieb bag
- material: PD620/PS490 waterproof
- dimensions: 30×25×14 cm. (HxWxD)
- weight: 1300 g
- capacity: 12,5 l
Ortlieb bag
- material: PD620/PS490 waterproof
- dimensions: 30×25×14 cm. (HxWxD)
- weight: 1300 g
- capacity: 12,5 l
Waterproof side bag whose compact size makes it the ideal partner for short trips or shopping. Through the QL1 mounting system, it can be quickly and easily attached to the bike.
Handlebar bag
- dimensions: 27cm x 18cm
- depth: 6cm
- 4 velcro straps
Handlebar bag
- dimensions: 27cm x 18cm
- depth: 6cm
- 4 velcro straps
Mobile phone holder, which one to choose?
- Girolibero handlebar bag
- Generic phone holders
- SP Connect™ mount, the best on the market
Mobile phone holder, which one to choose?
- Girolibero handlebar bag
- Generic phone holders
- SP Connect™ mount, the best on the market
To attach your smartphone to the handlebar you have 3 options:
- use the Girolibero handlebar bag supplied free of charge (1 per room)
- buy a mobile phone holder in sports shops or major e-commerce outlets: for € 18-25 we recommend the models that clamp your mobile phone and its case like a vise.
- order the best product on the market, SP Connect™ with a special discount. The SP Connect™ mount is attached to the handlebar and works only with a special phone case. This case, which can also be used in everyday life, is slightly thicker than normal cases and is fixed to the handlebar mount with a simple click. The main advantage is that it is easy to attach and remove your phone, so you can immediately use it to take pictures or make calls, as well as grab it quickly when you want to stop cycling and have a break. Also, there are many other available accessories, including those for your car and writing desk. We recommend the Velcro Universal Mount SPC+ which costs € 29.90, which you can buy with a special 20% discount. The compatible phone case must be purchased separately and the price varies depending on your phone model. Visit the official SP Connect™ website and use the discount code TRAVEL20, which applies to all products.
Route profile
- Level: medium-easy
- Total length: 245 km
- Terrain: 80% paved, 20% unpaved
- Train connection among the overnight stays: day 2, 4 and 5
- Possibility to shorten the itinerary by taking the train: day 2, 4 and 5
How to get there
Orléans is the starting point of the tour to be reached independently.
By plane
Orléans is connected with the following airports: Tours: 110 km, Paris: 140 km.
From Tour Val de Loire airport (TUF):
- taxi to Tours train station (approx. 10 min). From here train to Orléans (approx. 1h15)
From Paris Beauvais airport (BVA):
- shuttle Bus Service to Paris Porte Maillot (approx. 1h15). From here train to Gare d’Austerlitz (approx. 25 minutes) and then train to Orléans (approx. 1h30).
From Paris Charles de Gaulle airport (CDG):
- train RER B to Saint Michel Notre Dame (approx. 40 min). From here underground line C to Paris Gare d’Austerlitz and then train to Orléans (approx. 1h30 min).
From Paris Orly airport (ORY):
- shuttle bus to the train station Rungis La Fraternelle (approx. 10 min) and RER C (approx. 35 min) to Paris Gare d’Austerlitz. From here train to Orléans (approx. 1h30 min).
If the train stops in Orleans Les Aubrais, a shuttle bus takes you to Orleans central railway station in 5 minutes.
For an overview of prices, airlines and flight schedules we suggest rome2rio.com or Google Maps, which also show options via train or bus, even for the last mile. For reliability and security, we recommend purchasing your flight on the official website of your chosen airline.
Public transport in Paris
For information on timetables and prices you can consult: RATP and Transilien.
By train
For information on timetables and prices you can consult the SNCF official website.
By car
If you arrive by car, you can park it in Orléans for the whole duration of the tour in an unguarded free parking inside the hotel property. You’ll receive all relevant information in the Final Tour Details.
How to go back
How to return home
Tours is the city at the end of the tour. From here you can return home.
By plane
The closest airports are Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Paris Orly (ORY).
To get to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG):
- train SNCF until Massy station + RER B until the airport (approx 1.5 hours)
To get to Paris Orly (ORY):
- train SNCF with change at Antony station. From here shuttle bus until the airport (approx. 2 hours)
Documents
If you are a citizen of the EU or of a Schengen country – i.e. most EU countries and four European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – you are free to travel to other Schengen countries without having to go through border controls.
Even if you don’t need a passport for border checks within the Schengen area, it is still always highly recommended to take a passport or ID card with you.
If you are a non-EU national wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a passport:
- valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you are visiting,
- which was issued within the previous 10 years
- and possibly a visa.
You should apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting. If your visa is from a Schengen area country, it automatically allows you to travel to the other Schengen countries as well.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
For further information visit Your Europe official website.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
Always thoroughly check the document you travel with: expiration date and integrity.
Registration of documents is compulsory at check-in in hotels.
Language and time zone
The official language is French.
France is in the Central European Time (CET) Zone, 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time zone (GMT), and observes Daylight Saving Time.
Internet, telephone, electricity
Internet and telephone
Throughout Europe roaming services are free (if you have a European SIM card). Please check your rates with your mobile/internet provider before your departure.
The international phone prefix of France is +33.
Emergency telephone numbers in France
112 – Common Emergency Number. This is the European emergency number which can be called in any emergency from any telephone (landline and mobile phone). Calls are free.
15 – Medical Emergencies
17 – Police Help Number
18 – Fire Department
Electricity
The French electrical net is 220V – 50Hz.
Electrical sockets comply with European regulations. In most hotels you will find adaptors for different types of plugs.
Currency
The currency in France is the euro (€).
Equipment and clothing
Cycling essentials
- handlebar mobile phone holder (we recommend the SP Connect™ system: if you buy it online you get a 20% discount using the code TRAVEL20)
- a power bank
- comfortable shoes with stiff soles
- padded cycling shorts
Personal equipment
- basic first aid kit which includes sticky bandages, gauze, and low-grade disinfectant
- sunglasses for eye protection
- protective sun lotion
- insect repellent
Clothes
- light weight waterproof/windproof tops
- leggings and long-sleeved tops for cooler mornings or evenings
- small close-fitting rucksack to carry small items during the day while cycling
- swimsuit
- clothes to cover your shoulders when you visit churches
Read carefully
Tour programme variations
- Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday. For example, along the way you may find temporary deviations caused by roadworks, which cannot be foreseen; in this case please follow the indications you will find on site.
Special diets
- If you are vegetarian, gluten-intolerant, allergic to some specific ingredients/substances or if you suffer from any other kind of allergies please indicate it at the moment of booking. We will pass the information on to the hotels, but we cannot guarantee that all dietary requests will be met. Sometimes it is difficult to find particular food, for example gluten-free food, so we suggest that you bring your own snacks just in case.
Travel insurance
- It is advisable to take out an insurance policy against expenses arising from cancellation of the tour package, accidents, luggage (loss and damage), as well as a contract covering expenses in case of repatriation. Insurance policies are not included in the tour package offered by the operator.
Paola
Published: 02 Sep 2024
Paolo
Published: 22 Aug 2024
John William
Published: 27 Jun 2024
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