Loire Valley Guided Tour

The Chateau de Chenonceau

The Loire Valley contains some of the most sumptuous castles to visit in all of France, as well as some of the most sumptuous accommodations! This region was instrumental in the formation of the country of France as well as of the entire European continent, from early 13th century on. The historic, royal Abbaye de Fontevraud is where the warring Plantagenets lie together in peace, at last. In this most famous burial ground and abbey lie Henry II of England, his beautiful wayward Queen, Eleanor of Aquitane (who had been imprisoned by her husband for her wandering ways), and her beloved son, Richard the Lionhearted, who rebelled against his father.

Cyclists in front of the
Chateau de Chinon

The medieval Château of Chinon was the site of Joan of Arc's search for the Dauphin, the future King of France, in order to take back the crown from the English. The valley became the playground of the French kings from the 16th through the 17th centuries and no expense was spared to throw lavish parties in honor of the kings. The French Renaissance began in this valley in 1515 when Léondardo da Vinci was enticed from Italy to come to the service of François 1.

The lavish Azay-le-Rideau,
a castle designed by a woman

More recent history found the Loire River as the main boundary between occupied and unoccupied France in World War II, and one of the most beautiful castles, Chenonceau, was used as a hospital for injured soldiers.

The Loire Valley is also known for its delicious light, white wines such as Vouvray and Vernou and light to rich red wines of Borgeuil and Chinon. The vineyards make for very enjoyable and easy cycling through the vines.

Planning your tour...

The Loire Valley is probably one of the easiest regions in France, from a cycling point of view. For those desiring longer or more difficult rides, we can surely accommodate you, but this is a great location for groups of mixed ability. Activities outside of cycling abound for those with friends/spouses who do not cycle, including cooking schools, cultural tours of all kinds, kayaking, and of course, shopping. We can assemble a tour based on your pleasures, whether it be more on the cultural side, with guided visits of as many castles as you prefer, or perhaps just combining the enjoyment of the sumptuous elegance available in Loire Valley accommodations with the finest dining and simple, easy rides in the countryside and occasional castle visits.

Most weeklong tours of the region can include all the areas outlined below. The Loire Valley is also a good area for a shorter adventure, if all you have is a few days!

Chambord to Chenonceau: elegance and Grace Principle villages and chateaux: Amboise, Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceaux, Vouvray.

Highlights: the grandest to the most delicate chateaux, the king's hunting grounds, Leonardo da Vinci's playground, Loire valley route du vin.

The Middle Ages through the Renaissance Principle villages: Azay le Rideau, Chinon, Saumur, Loches, Montrésor, Usse, Langeais, l'Abbaye de Fontevraud.

The Sleeping Beauty casetle, Chateau d'Ussé

Highlights: 13th to 17th century castles and manor homes, Joan of Arc and the turreted Castle of Chinon, Richard the Lionhearted, a castle built by a woman, gentle countryside rides, the Sleeping Beauty castle, several of France's Plus Beaux Villages.