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Two cyclists on paved path along Loire River with historic château on hilltop above French village houses under clear blue sky.

Cycling along the Loire - Castles and La Route Royale. 8 days

8 Days / 7 Nights
Moderate
Two cyclists on paved path along Loire River with historic château on hilltop above French village houses under clear blue sky.

The essentials at a glance

Self-guided cycling loop along the Loire River through France's castle region. The route covers approximately 365 km over 6 cycling days on mainly flat cycle paths and low-traffic roads. Highlights include the royal castles of Blois, Amboise, Villandry, Chenonceau, and Chambord, plus the medieval abbey of Fontevraud. The tour passes through vineyards, historic towns, and romantic river landscapes along the Loire, Cher, Vienne, and Indre rivers.

The Loire Valley – the quintessence of the romantic France! The rural charm of this region is in no way inferior to the cultural wealth of its cities. But of course, the castles on the river Loire are the reason, above all else, why this region is so famous. Kings, feudal lords and ladies of the court, seduced by the beautiful natural setting of the Loire Valley, had there, in the ‘garden of France’, several hundred castles, manor houses and dreamy residences built. 

Villandry, Langeais, Ussé, Chinon,  Azay-le-Rideau, Chenonceaux, Chambord, Blois, just to name the most important ones. Each one of them would be worth a separate holiday, however together they truly display a one of a kind route of dreams as far as architecture and scenery is concerned. A first class cycling holiday in every way.

 

Highlights on this tour

  • Splendid palaces, noble stately homes and oppulent gardens
  • Scenic and cultural splendor
  • Loire wines
  • The charm of the French „savoir-vivre“
Two cyclists riding on a dirt path through a lush green forest with tall trees and dense vegetation on both sides.
Renaissance château with distinctive round tower and formal gardens featuring fountain, manicured lawns and topiary bushes under cloudy sky.
Man in black jacket holding white wine glass with Loire Valley castle visible in background among green trees under cloudy sky.
Two cyclists riding on a country road alongside extensive vineyard rows in the Loire Valley under a partly cloudy blue sky.
Aerial view of Loire Valley showing a winding river with stone bridge, green fields, scattered houses, and forested hills in the distance.
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Two cyclists riding on a dirt path through a lush green forest with tall trees and dense vegetation on both sides.
Renaissance château with distinctive round tower and formal gardens featuring fountain, manicured lawns and topiary bushes under cloudy sky.
Man in black jacket holding white wine glass with Loire Valley castle visible in background among green trees under cloudy sky.
Two cyclists riding on a country road alongside extensive vineyard rows in the Loire Valley under a partly cloudy blue sky.
Aerial view of Loire Valley showing a winding river with stone bridge, green fields, scattered houses, and forested hills in the distance.

Video from the tour

Here you can watch a short video about this tour. We did the tour at the beginning of May 2025, and it gives a good impression of what you can expect. We did our 8-day version of the tour.

Variations of this tour

Cycling along the Loire - Castles and La Route Royale. 10 days
10 Days
Cycling holiday in the Loire Valley - 6 days
6 Days

The route

Mainly flat on cycle paths and low traffic secondary roads with almost consistently very good signposting. The terrain in the vineyards is somewhat more hilly and there are also a few short ascents to tackle.  

See the elevation profile

Itinerary

See the day-by-day itinerary below.

You'll arrive at your first hotel in Blois, where you'll settle in and, depending on what time you arrive, have time to explore the city.
Discover the historic old town and the impressive castle that the kings of France were magically drawn to.

Category A - Hotel (example): Anne de Bretagne
Category B - Hotel (example): Le Monarque

The river flows between the gold shimmering sandbanks in a leisurely manner. Typical of this area are the rock housings, which are directly built into the soft lime stones. Sometimes, only the rising smoke reveals their existence.

You cross the Loire in order to appreciate the most royal of all the Loire Castles: Castle Ambois. It accommodated five kings and a Roman emperor. In addition, a genius of the 16th century attracts your attention – Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last years in Ambois. On the Loire Cycle Path you keep cycling on to Tours. Alternatively take the train (independently) from Amboise and hence cut the stage short by about 30 km.

Category A + B - Hotel (example): Ibis Styles Centre

The river Cher leads you directly to the castle Villandry with its terraced gardens. Certainly, you should not miss paying a visit to this famous installation. Every visitor will be amazed by the shadowy footpaths, the flower-bedecked bowers, the fountains and the artistically laid out vegetable gardens.

Some kilometres further on you will exchange the bank of the Cher for the bank of the famous Loire. And again you will be tempted by the next castle – Langeais. From the top of the fortified tower (this castle exclusively served for military purposes) you will see the river and its whole surroundings lying in front of you.

On the verge of the dark and mysterious forest of Chinon rises the castle of Ussé, the castle of the Sleeping Beauty. Via small villages and on side roads you will reach today’s destination – Chinon.

Category A - Hotel (example): Diderot
Category B - Hotel (example): Rive Sud

The Vienne escorts you first in the small village Candes-St-Matin. A grandiose and romantic church was built at the place of death of the holy St. Martin. In Montsoreau conflate the Vienne with the powerful Loire – a impressing natural spectacle. These ‘cave gardens’ are approx. 800 km long. Your cyclist calves take you first to Fontervraud l’Abbey. Nowhere else in this world, you will find a medieval monastery that is so entirely preserved like the one in Fontervraud. You pass the birth house of Francois Rabelais, the famous author and also through the valley, where his story line of the book “Gargantua” takes place.

Category A - Hotel (example): Diderot
Category B - Hotel (example): Rive Sud

You leave Chinon with its medieval alleys, which crowd between the river and the rocks, towards the north. The tour leads you through vineyards and lonely villages.

Like Crissay, once entirely deserted – it is now resettled by artists and people who always know how to make the best of things. But don’t be afraid – there will also be a castle for admiration today: to be precise, one of extremely high quality – Azay-le-Rideau. Balzac wrote about it “a diamond with thousand facets, set by the Indre”. What could we add to this? You will spend the night in town and have, therefore, the chance to enjoy the magic of the castle with its cultural events.

Category A - Hotel (example): de Biencourt
Category B - Hotel (example): Val de Loire

There is another highlight in store: this time concerning nature. Through the romantic river landscape, steadily following the Indre, you will reach Montbazon. A short ascent awaits you. By pedalling really hard over a mountain ridge you reach the Cher Valley.

On meadow paths and along the Cher you continue to Bléré, a small market town. For many visitors the Castle of Chenonceaux is the topping on the cake. A magnificent, double floored bridge gallery goes over the river. But before the lovely palace garden will enthuse your eyes. But see and discover on your own.

Category A - Hotel (example): La Roseraie
Category B - Hotel (example): Logis Le Relais

Today you have to choose between two tour variants: the shorter stage takes you through the lovely landscape of the Touraine to the Castle Chaumont, and then on romantic paths along the Loire to Blois. After moving into your hotel room you will go out on reconnaissance! The Castle Blois with its galleries, projected balconies and bay windows could be your destination.

Or there is the second, longer variant for all lovers of the Loire Castles: via Montrichard, Cheverny, Villesavine to the Castle Chambord. As far as the eye can see the ‘Domaine de Chambrod’ stretches here. Already from a distance, you can see the walls of the biggest and most magnificent residence on the Loire shimmering through the trees. It is the immortal legacy of a disloyal king. You are spoilt for choice!

Category A - Hotel (example): Anne de Bretagne
Category B - Hotel (example): Le Monarque

This tour is now over. During the morning you check out from the hotel. It is possible to book extra nights after the tour if you prefer.

Pictures from the trip

Two cyclists riding on a dirt path through Loire Valley countryside with yellow wildflowers and green trees lining the route.
Cyclist with helmet on touring bike with panniers stopped beside Loire River, surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation.
Elegant beef steak with dark sauce, sautéed mushrooms and small potatoes on white plate. Wine glasses and dining setting visible in background.
Renaissance château with distinctive arched gallery spanning across a river in the Loire Valley, featuring white limestone walls and conical towers.
Two cyclists with touring bikes stand outside Le Relais de Chenonceau hotel-restaurant, a traditional French stone building with slate roof.
Two cyclists riding on a quiet country road lined with lush green trees and vegetation, with a small village visible in the distance.
Person in black jacket holding French baguette and wine bottle next to bicycle with leafy vegetables in front basket on cobblestone street.
Smiling cyclist with helmet and sunglasses standing beside black e-bike with panniers in green Loire Valley countryside under cloudy sky.
Cyclist with bicycle standing at ornate iron gates of a French château with stone pillars, topiary trees, and classical architecture.
Single cyclist riding away on paved path through green countryside with dense trees on both sides and grassy meadow visible to the right.
Cobblestone street in historic Loire Valley village with half-timbered buildings, stone houses, outdoor café seating, and people walking.
Two cyclists with helmets sitting on stone wall eating snacks, with touring bikes parked nearby in green countryside landscape.
Cyclist riding on narrow country road through green fields with medieval abbey ruins on hilltop and village houses in Loire Valley, France.
Two cyclists riding on a paved country road through Loire Valley vineyards with green fields and hills in the background under blue sky.
Two cyclists with helmets preparing their touring bikes with panniers in a courtyard. Green vegetation and a cream-colored building visible.
Medieval fortress of Château de Chinon on a hilltop overlooking the Loire River, with a stone bridge in the foreground and historic buildings below.
French bakery display with wicker baskets containing various breads, baguettes, croissants and pastries. Black chalkboard price tags label each item.
Grilled meat with brown sauce on white plate, served with roasted potatoes, orange carrots, cherry tomato and herb garnish.
Man in dark cycling jacket and sunglasses drinking coffee at outdoor café table with cycling helmet and gear nearby, surrounded by greenery.
White limestone Renaissance château with conical towers and ornate facade. Visitors walk across courtyard toward entrance under cloudy sky.
White plate with folded crepes, small bowl of chocolate sauce, fresh strawberry, and decorative leaf garnish with chocolate shavings.
Cyclist with bicycle standing next to a large wine bottle monument displaying 'QUART' and 'Vouvray' labels, surrounded by green trees.
Person viewing Gothic church interior with stone arches, stained glass windows, wooden pews, and ornate altar in Loire Valley, France.
Elegant French dish on blue and white decorative plate featuring molded rice with red garnish, herbs, and sauce on wooden table.
Group of cyclists with bikes on wooden dock beside colorful houseboat on Loire River. Traditional sailboat visible in background water.
Medieval town along Loire River with Gothic cathedral dominating skyline. Stone buildings reflect in calm water under cloudy evening sky.
Ornate carousel with painted horses in front of a Renaissance château in the Loire Valley. People sit on benches watching in the courtyard.
Guide in red shirt explaining Loire Valley cycling route map to visitor. Wall shows blue river path connecting cities like Tours, Amboise, and Blois.
Three cyclists with bikes standing on stone bridge over Loire River, surrounded by lush green trees and rolling hills in background.
Aerial view of two cyclists on a paved bike path along the Loire River, surrounded by lush green trees and countryside in France.

Prices and dates

Prices per person in EUR

The price includes

Optional extras

  • Upgrade to Ebike (selected when booking the tour)
  • Transportation to/from France
  • Tourist tax (if due)
  • Handling fee (€25)

Bikes

You can choose from these bikes on the tour.
Red unisex touring bicycle with 21-speed gearing, equipped with bright yellow panniers on front and rear, parked on grass.
Unisex 21-speed bike
Dereilleur gears with freewheel

High-quality unisex touring bike with comfortable low entry.

Body size approx. 148cm - 190cm.

43cm
46cm
51cm
56cm
Red electric bicycle with yellow panniers parked on green grass. The e-bike has a front basket and rear pannier bag, both in bright yellow.
Unisex 8-speed E-bike
Hub gears with freewheel

High quality unisex e-bike with comfortable low entry.

Body size approx. 148cm - 195cm.

46cm "XS"
46cm
51cm
56cm
Red men's touring bicycle with 21 gears parked on grass. Features yellow panniers on rear rack and handlebar bag, black saddle and grips.
21-gear men's bike
Dereilleur gears with freewheel

High quality men's touring bike with classic diamond frame.

Body size approx. 165cm - 205cm.

56-51 "sloping" cm
60cm
64cm
Dark gray touring bicycle with rear rack, front suspension, and multiple gears parked on vibrant green grass beside a paved path.
PLUS men's bike 27-gear
Dereilleur gears with freewheel

Sportier, lighter and more precise premium rental bike with diamond frame.

Body size approx. 155cm - 205cm.

46cm
50cm
51cm
55cm
60cm
63cm

Practical information

Here you can get answers to various questions about the trip
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The price is based upon two people sharing. It is also possible travel alone in a single room. Simply choose "1 person" in the booking form and it will automatically add the single room surcharge.

On this tour you will be on your own supplied with maps, route descriptions and luggage transfers. That means that your time is your own and you have plenty of time to enjoy the stages in your own pace.

 

Check the price quickly
You can quickly check the price of your desired trip without having to fill out any forms. Here’s how:

  1. Click on the "Calculate Price" button (you’ll find it in the "Dates and Prices" section) – this will take you to the first pages of the booking form
  2. Select your preferred date, number of people, room distribution, any extra nights, and any available add-ons you may want
  3. See the price


Get a quote
If you would like a flight included, or changes made to the trip, you can request a customized offer by clicking the "Get Quote" button at the top of the page. Remember to describe in detail what changes you would like.

The booking process
When you book the trip, we will begin booking hotels and arranging all the practical aspects of your tour. This process typically takes 5–8 working days, but in some cases it may take longer for certain bookings. If you arrange your own transportation, we recommend waiting until we have confirmed your booking before making any arrangements.

Dates
If you can select a date in the trip calendar (in the booking form), then this is a possible start date. We regularly update our trips with sold-out dates; these dates will then appear in red/grey and cannot be selected.

On all our cycling holidays it is possible bring your own bike but it also possible to rent a bike for the tour. The bikes you can rent are all perfectly suited for the tour and the local terrain and all bikes are perfectly maintained. If you want to rent a bike on your holiday, then you select this on the booking form.

Equipment included in the bike rental:

  • Saddle bag (water repellent)
  • Handlebar bag (water repellent)
  • Service-set with tools and extra bicycle tube
  • Combination lock

Please note that helmets are not included and you need to bring your own.

Roadside assistance
All bikes are equipped with puncture resistant tyres which means that it is virtually impossible to puncture. No rule without exceptions, so should you experience a punctured tyre then you can quickly fix it by using the tools in the service-set. If the damage is greater than a simply puncture then you simply call us and we make sure that your bike is fixed or you will be supplied with a new bike as quickly as possible.

Insurance is included
Insurance against theft and damages are included in the bike rental. Should you have any problems of this nature then all you have to do is to let us know and we will supply a new bike as quickly as possible. Naturally, careless or mischievous behavior is exempt from this.  

The flights to/from Paris are not included in the price. You can easily find a suitable flight via a flight booking engine such as Momondo or Skyscanner.

From Paris you take the train to Blois - aspproximately 1,5-2 hours.

Notice: we recommend that you book with us and wait for the confirmation before you book your flights.

It works like this:

  1. You book your chosen holiday with us
  2. We confirm your holiday (usually within 2-5 working days)
  3. You arrange your transportation

Get a quote
If you prefer that we handle your flight, then we would be happy to arrange this for you. You simply book a quote below the map on this page and we will return with a quote as soon as possible (usually within 48 working hours). Please note that we add a handling fee of 45 euro to each flight and this means that the flight will be cheaper if you book it yourself.

On this tour you will be accommodated in 3-star hotels (Category A) or in 2-star and 3-star hotels (Category B)

In the itinerary you can see some examples of the hotels we use on this tour. Notice that the hotels are examples and you may end up staying in different hotels. It depends on availability when you book the tour.

Breakfast is included every day. It is easy to find lunch in the small villages before the walks and you will have plenty of choices for dinner in the many restaurants.

Luggage transfer is included on this tour. Upon arrival at the first hotel you will be given luggage tags along with the rest of the welcome package. You fill out the luggage tags and put them on your bags where they will remain for the duration of the tour.

Your luggage is picked up from the hotel lobby around 9am every morning and will arrive at your next hotel at 6pm at the latest (often long before that). If there are any special exceptions to the luggage transfer you will be notified upon arrival.

Luggage transfer includes one bag per guest and the bags can weigh 20kg each.

On this tour, you will receive the following documents:

Upon booking
Immediately after booking this trip, you'll recieve a pre-booking-email where you can get a complete overview of your booking. Once the tour is confirmed you get a confirmation email from us along with practical information about the tour.

One month before departure
You will receive a hotel list and final travel documents.

Upon arrival at the first hotel
You'll receive the welcome pack, which contains everything you need for the trip. There will be route descriptions, maps, luggage tags, specific local vouchers and if you have rented a bike, they will also be handed out at the first hotel. The documents are in English.
Notice: On some tours it is necessary to either print the documents yourself or to bring them electronically.

This tour has difficulty grade 2.

Grade 2
For cyclists who like hilly terrain and a bit longer distances. You cycle on good roads, which usually don’t have much traffic. The distance is between 35 – 60 km or 20 – 38 miles. If you are capable of riding a bike and you have a normal good health, you should not worry about going on these tours.

Read more about our Grading System

After booking this trip, you get access to various discount schemes.

We recommend taking out travel insurance that covers at least illness, accident, repatriation, lost holiday, luggage and liability. As a customer, you are responsible for taking out the necessary travel insurance to cover these costs.

Before taking out insurance, you should check whether you are already covered by travel or cancellation insurance through your home insurance company, credit card or similar - please note that there may be differences in insurance coverage.

Join the special ‘Bering Cycling Holidays’ group on Facebook. Here you'll be notified about new holidays, special offers and much more.

Link to the group

Note: you need to request membership, but everyone is approved.

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"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"

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