This 4-day bike trip is designed to be a short, accessible, and affordable adventure through relatively flat regions, making it ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, including retirees. Each day covers a manageable distance of around 50 km, allowing plenty of time to explore charming towns, enjoy scenic landscapes, and relax along the way. The trip is budget-friendly, with a range of affordable accommodation and meal options available. To make it even more convenient, travelers can easily return to their starting point by train or ferry, adding flexibility to the itinerary while minimizing travel time and effort at the end of the journey.

Discover the Loire Valley from Amboise, often referred to as the “Garden of France,” is a cyclist’s paradise. Known for its stunning châteaux, vibrant vineyards, and charming villages, the region offers an idyllic backdrop for a leisurely bike trip. This four-day cycling adventure covers approximately 50 km per day, allowing you to explore towns like Amboise, Blois, and Saumur while savoring local delicacies at affordable eateries and relaxing in comfortable 3–4-star hotels. You’ll encounter iconic attractions like Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and the historic town of Chinon, all while meandering along the scenic Loire River. The journey concludes with a train ride back to your starting point, ensuring a seamless end to your adventure.

Day 1: Amboise to Blois

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Start your journey in Amboise, a charming town featuring Château d’Amboise, a royal residence where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years.
    • En route to Blois, visit Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, known for its lush gardens and art installations.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Comptoir Médicis (Chaumont-sur-Loire)
    • Offers light, fresh dishes like salads and quiches. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: L’Annexe (Blois)
    • A bistro serving local wines and hearty French cuisine. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel Mercure Blois Centre (4-star)
      • Price: ~$150 USD per night.
      • Includes a pool and spa, ideal for relaxation after a day of cycling.

Day 2: Blois to Chambord and Cheverny

Distance: ~50 km loop

  • Highlights:
    • Start with the magnificent Château de Chambord, an architectural masterpiece surrounded by vast parklands.
    • Cycle to Château de Cheverny, inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in Tintin comics, known for its opulent interiors and gardens.
  • Lunch Stop: Relais de Chambord (near Chambord)
    • Outdoor terrace dining with simple French classics. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Le Bistrot d’Alex (Cheverny)
    • Affordable French dining with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Return to Hôtel Mercure Blois Centre.

Day 3: Blois to Saumur

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Begin with a train-assisted ride to Chinon, cutting the cycling distance.
    • Explore Château de Chinon, known for its medieval architecture and Joan of Arc history.
    • Continue to Saumur, famous for its sparkling wines and the impressive Château de Saumur.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Grand Monarque (Chinon)
    • A cozy brasserie offering platters and soups. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Les Menestrels (Saumur)
    • Offers elegant dishes with regional flair. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hotel Saint-Pierre (4-star, Saumur)
      • Price: ~$170 USD per night.

Day 4: Saumur to Amboise (Return)

Distance: ~50 km cycling + train

  • Highlights:
    • Visit Fontevraud Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former monastic city.
    • Cycle through the picturesque vineyards of Montlouis-sur-Loire before returning the bike to Amboise.
  • Lunch Stop: Les Terrasses de Saumur
    • Panoramic views paired with simple, delicious fare. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Return Journey:
    • Catch a train from Saumur to Amboise, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. Trains run frequently, and tickets cost around $20 USD per person.

Pricing Summary

This 4-day cycling trip through the Loire Valley offers a balance of adventure and comfort. Accommodation costs range from $150 to $170 USD per night, and meals average $20–$30 USD per person. Entry to attractions like Chambord and Chinon is approximately $15–$20 USD each. The train return to Amboise adds $20 USD per person. In total, expect to spend around $900–$1,000 USD per person for the trip, depending on dining and accommodation choices. This budget-friendly journey is a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and scenic exploration.