From Saumur to Chinon, bike escape off the beaten track
Enjoy the delights of the western Loire Valley and the treasures of Touraine! Starting from Saumur, cycle through the prestigious vineyards of Saumur Champigny and Chinon, still surrounded by centuries-old stone walls. Following the “Loire à vélo” cycle paths, you'll pass imposing châteaux proudly overlooking the Loire and its wild landscapes. Romanesque abbeys and picturesque French gardens guide you along the way.
Day 1: Arrival in Saumur
Saumur welcomes you for your bike tour between Anjou and Touraine. Walk around Saumur’s streets, to the place Saint Pierre where you should stop to drink a glass of sparkling wine and then climb to the castle from where you will have a stunning view on the city of Saumur and the Loire river.
Day 2: Saumur - Fontevraud | 45 km (28 miles)
This first stage guides you through the « Saumur Champigny » vineyards producing very elegant red wines. Make a stop at château de Brézé, well known for its impressive underground cellars ! Ride to Fontevraud and its royal abbey : an outstanding example of Romanesque art founded in 1099, considered as Europe’s most important monastic complex.
Day 3: Excursion to Montreuil Bellay | 49 km (30 miles)
Ride through the vineyards surrounding Fontevraud and follow the sign-posted route for cyclist along the river le Thouet to Montreuil-Bellay. You will be charmed by the exceptional heritage of this wonderful medieval city, away from major tourist routes. Take the time to visit the castle to discover its history and the history of the families who have built, extended, lived in and protected it to this day. Taste the domain wines at the counter of the castle shop. Come back to Fontevraud through the quiet countryside roads of Anjou.
Day 4: Fontevraud - Chinon | 52 km (32 miles)
After cycling through the Fontevraud forest, follow the roads in the heart of the Chinon vineyards, Experience an enchanting, brand new cycle path that leads through typical villages and houses made of tufa stone. After a stop at the château du Rivau reminiscent of wonderful medieval stories and legends, you will reach the medieval town of Chinon, built on the Vienne river banks.
Day 5: Chinon - Azay le Rideau | 44 km (27 miles)
Ride through some of Chinon's most prestigious vineyards before reaching one of France's most beautiful villages: Crissay-sur-Manse. Continue through the gentle Touraine countryside, passing through the basket-making capital of Villaines-les-Rochers, and on to Azay-le-Rideau, a charming village and impressive Renaissance château, its sculpted walls reflected in the surrounding water.
Day 6: Excursion to Villandry | 44 km (27 miles)
Leave Azay-le-Rideau along the Indre River, and make a detour to visit the small Château de Saché, where French writer Honoré de Balzac used to seek inspiration for his novels. Continue through the heart of the Touraine countryside to Villandry. Don't miss a visit to its exceptional gardens: French gardens, English gardens, labyrinth, shady parks... They're sure to delight young and old, garden lovers and enthusiasts alike. Join Azay-le-Rideau along the banks of the Loire, with the possibility of a detour to visit the medieval château of Langeais.
Day 7: Azay le Rideau - Saumur | 58 km (36 miles)
Following the Indre, you'll reach the splendid little château de l'Islette, still inhabited by its owners, before reaching the Loire and the village of Candes-Saint-Martin; stop for a moment and feel the tranquility of this place as you stroll through the flower-filled streets. Continue on to Montsoreau and its château on the banks of the Loire. Troglodyte villages and vineyards on the hills lead you to Saumur.
Day 8: Departure during the day
