13 Amazing Loire Valley Cycling Tours + Bike Rental Tips
Thinking of bicycling through the Loire Valley? Here are the best Loire Valley cycling tours!
Embarking on a cycling tour through the Loire Valley is like pedaling through the pages of a fairy tale.
Nestled in the heart of France, the Loire Valley region is famous for breathtaking landscapes dotted with majestic châteaux. The Loire Valley is full of historical significance, sprawling vineyards, delicious wines, and meandering rivers.
The peaceful Loire River, the longest river in France, stretches across the Centre Val de Loire and the Pays de la Loire regions.
The Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a gorgeous backdrop for cyclists of all levels, including beginners looking to leisurely explore the area.
In this blog post, I’ll give you options for incredible cycling tours that will take you through the picturesque Loire Valley on an unforgettable cycling adventure.
During your cycling tour in the Loire Valley, you’ll see historical sites, enjoy the tranquility of the French countryside, and sample exquisite French cuisine and wines. You will have an unforgettable journey through the “Garden of France.”
As you’ll see, I’ve listed one-day Loire Valley cycling tours as well as multi-day Loire Valley cycling tours, so you can spend as much time exploring by bike as you like!
Enjoy exploring the Loire Valley by bicycle–la Loire à vélo!
Best Loire Valley Bike Tours
My Top Picks: Best One-Day Loire Valley Cycling Tours
1. Chateaux de la Loire cycling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Cycle by some of the Loire Valley’s most famous châteaux on the Châteaux of the Loire Valley Cycling Tour.
On this small group, guided tour, you’ll cycle through the forest of Boulogne, by the Chambord castle.
You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, then cycle to the Chateau de Cheverny.
Next, you’ll cycle through vineyards and visit at least one wine cellar.
Finally, you’ll end the day at the stunning Chateau de Chaumont-sur-Loire.
This tour is a great way to see several of the Loire Valley’s magnificent castles in one day.
“It was so amazing. The guides genuinely cared about our interests and gave us a great day. The bikes were phenomenal and the guide had a lot of advice to offer. The homemade lunch was delicious and perfect. We were able to ride 76 KM and see 2 Chateaus. The day couldn’t have been better. Must do tour.” (Read more reviews)
2. Chenonceau E-Bike Ride with Cheese & Wine
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
On the Chenonceau Guided E-Bike Tour, featuring local wines and cheeses, you’ll enjoy incredible views as you cycle along the River Cher, through small villages, to arrive at the Chateau de Chenonceau.
Your cycling tour will begin at Thésée, an ancient Roman city, in the Cher River Valley. You’ll cycle through Bourré and Montrichard.
You’ll ride your E-bike to Chenonceau, the Ladies’ Château, or Château des Dames, as it was owned and inhabited by many famous women, including rivals Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.
As you face the beautiful Château de Chenonceau, you’ll enjoy a gourmet picnic of local foods, cheeses, and wines.
3. Vineyards Cycling Tour, In & Around Chinon
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5-6 hours | ✅ Book it!
Spend a day exploring vineyards in the region of Chinon, on this Vineyard Cycle Tour In and Around Chinon.
With a guide, you’ll visit different wineries and wine caves, sample a variety of local wines, learn about the wine making process. You’ll also learn about the history of the region.
You’ll explore gorgeous scenery, enjoy a delicious picnic lunch, and experiences you just wouldn’t find on your own.
The tour will be customized to the needs of your groups. Guest can choose to upgrade to an electric bike.
“Neil made this tour an amazing experience. We visited 3 wineries, tasted about 20 wines and learned a lot about wine making as well as the history of the region. Biking through the beautiful French countryside is an experience in itself. Highly recommend this tour.” -Dragos (Read more reviews)
4. Chambord from Amboise, E-bike Cycling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
Spend a lovely day cycling from Amboise to the Chateau de Chambord.
An informative guide will accompany you, sharing the best spots for panoramic views, historical information about this 16th-century castle, and anecdotes about French kings and nobility.
You’ll enjoy gourmet snacks and a glass of wine. And you’ll travel via E-bike, on cycling trails, so you can enjoy the trip.
This tour is a memorable way to familiarize yourself with the Loire Valley region and get to see Chambord from a different perspective.
Note that Leonardo da Vinci was instrumental in the design of Chambord. He spent his last years (and is buried) in Amboise.
“Sophie was a wonderful guide with lots of knowledge and with an awesome personality. First of all, we were picked up in a huge van, and it was only three of us. Then we were transported to a chateau where we began our e-bike tour to Chambord. We loved the trails and the fact that no cars were on our paths. It was a really memorable adventure!” -Rebecca (Read more reviews)
5. Chambord from Tours, E-Bike Cycling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!
Take a cycling trip from Tours to the amazing Chateau de Chambord on an E-bike.
A knowledgeable guide will accompany you, sharing the best photo opportunities, beautiful vistas, historical details, and stories about French royalty and nobility.
The tour includes a stop at a privately owned chateau for snacks and a glass of local wine. And you’ll travel via E-bike, on cycling trails, so you can enjoy the day.
This tour is a memorable way to see the Loire Valley and explore Chambord grounds. You’ll also have plenty of time to tour the Chateau de Chambord–where you can’t miss the double-helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci!
“We had a an absolutely amazing day bikeriding through the forest in Chambord. Dimitri was very knowledgeable and took us through the history of Chateau of Chambord in a friendly and engaging manner. Lots of free time to take photos. The bike ride itself was also very enjoyable, and not to difficult. Big thanks to Dimitri who made us feel very comfortable, and took very good care of us.. Even though, we didn’t speak much French. All in all, a perfect day in the Loire Valley! Highly recommend!” (Read more reviews)
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6. Chambord from Blois, Wine and Cycling Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
On the Wine and Cycling Tour from Blois to Chambord, you’ll ride along the banks of the Loire River, taking in the region’s beautiful landscapes.
You’ll arrive at the Chateau de Chambord, a stunning 16th century castle built to be a hunting lodge. Chambord is surrounded by incredible formal gardens and 13,500 acres of forest, full of deer and wild boar.
Upon arrival, you can enjoy a bottle of wine and tour the Chambord castle at your own pace, before returning to Blois along a different route.
This is a self-guided tour along an easy-to-navigate bike trail, with well-marked routes.
7. Nantes Panoramic Tour: E-Bike Cycling Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!
Take a Panoramic Cycling Tour of Nantes with ease on an electric bike! Cycle by the city’s town center, major landmarks, the scenic riverside, and the medieval area.
You’ll discover the city’s famous animal “machines,” a fantastic art and engineering feat. And you’ll get to see Feydeau Island and a Loire River tributary.
On this tour, you’ll have a guide who will share historical information, fun stories about Nantes, and tips for making the most of your time in Nantes.
And, of course, you’ll have time to stop for snacks and a glass of wine!
“We loved our electric bike tour of Nantes. The bikes are easy to handle and made it simple for us seniors (nearly 70 years old) to zip around following our leader. Hills were no problem! There is no way we could we have negotiated the busy pedestrian, auto and tram traffic on bicycles on our own. We didn’t have to worry about following a map or deciphering French signs — and we were offered a true insider’s view of this fascinating city. Our charming guide, the owner of the company and a Nantes native, is fluent in English so he could answer our questions as well as narrate stories. We really enjoyed the entire experience, even though it was a cold, rainy, windy day. We had a great time and learned so much. Highly recommend.” -MaineMermaid (Read more reviews)
8. Saumer Cycling and Wine Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5-6 hours | 📍 LOCATION: Saumer | ✅ Book it!
On this Cycling and Wine Tour of Saumer, France, you’ll enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride in and around the historic city of Saumer, France.
You’ll cycle beside the beautiful Loire River, visit a pilgrim church older than Lourdes, and visit a troglodyte village dating to the Middle Ages.
On this outing, you’ll visit a chateau that’s been in the same family since the seventeenth century, enjoy a French picnic, and, of course, taste a variety of wines.
You can upgrade to the E-bike option, if you prefer.
9. Chaumont-sur-Loire from Blois, Wine & Cycling Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
On the Chaumont-sur-Loire from Blois Nature, Wine, and History Tour, you’ll enjoy a wonderful day of self-guided cycling.
From the town of Blois, you’ll ride your electric rental bike along cycle paths along the Loire River. Your cycling route will take you to le Château de Chaumont sur Loire, a stunning 15th century chateau.
(It was the Chateau de Chaumont sur Loire that Catherine de Medici forced Diane de Poitiers to accept in exchange for Chenonceau.)
Chaumont-sur-Loire is also known for its luxurious 19th century stables and beautiful gardens. Chaumont sur Loire hosts the spectacular International Garden Festival, so if you enjoy gardens, you’ll want to experience it!
You’ll have time to tour the castle and grounds, and enjoy a bottle of wine, before returning to Blois by way of Candé-sur-Beuvron.
10. Angers Cycling tour with Wine Tastings
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
The Angers Cycling Tour with Wine Tastings is perfect for anyone who wants to truly experience Loire Valley wines!
You’ll visit vineyards famous for their Savennieres and Coteau du Layon wines. You’ll cycle on quiet country roads, through picturesque villages, and alongside lovely vineyards.
On the tour, you’ll enjoy multiple wine tastings and a picnic lunch featuring delicious local food.
This cycling itinerary focuses on learning about the appellations of the Loire Valley vineyards.
On this guided tour, you’ll enjoy the ease of riding and E-bike and having a support vehicle. And you’ll appreciate that your tour guide is a certified wine guide!
My Top Picks: Best Multi-Day Loire Valley Cycling Tours
1. Two-Day Cycling Tour from Saumur
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Days | 📍 LOCATION: Saumur | ✅ Book it!
Immerse yourself in the Loire Valley on this 2-day cycling tour that begins in Saumur!
On your first cycling day, you’ll cycle along the Vienne River to Chinon, stopping for a picnic lunch in front of the fortress of Chinon (visited by Joan of Arc in 1429). You’ll visit two vineyards for wine tastings and enjoy some of the Loire Valley’s best wines.
You’ll end the day at a charming hotel with a pool, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner.
In the morning, after breakfast, you’ll cycle back towards Saumur. Along the route, you’ll visit the charming village of Candes Saint Martin, famous for its basilica, and the little village of Montsoreau, known for its medieval castle.
After another picnic lunch, you’ll visit more vineyards to try Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc wines. Then, you’ll cycle through troglodyte villages, then cycle along the Loire River on your way back to Saumur.
On this tour, a guide will accompany you, and a support van will carry your luggage and the picnic lunches, while you enjoy cycling on electric mountain bikes.
2. Three-day Cycling Tour from Chinon
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 Days |📍 LOCATION: Chinon | ✅ Book it!
Vineyard et Vélo’s 3-day, 2-night cycling tour in the Loire Valley is perfect for those seeking an immersive cycling experience without committing to a long itinerary.
Beginning and ending in the historic town of Chinon, this self-guided journey spans 79 miles (127 kilometers).
The tour includes bike rental, two nights’ accommodation in boutique hotels, and two breakfasts, plus a wine tasting and a special dinner one evening. This compact adventure offers a taste of the Loire Valley’s charm and culinary delights.
This cycling tour makes it easy to explore the region’s renowned wine-tasting venues, picturesque villages, and notable historical sites, including a visit to the Chateau d’Usse, the real-world inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle.
Perfect for those looking for more than a few hours of cycling, but not an extended itinerary, this memorable Loire Valley cycling tour will ensure a memorable holiday that balances cycling, history, and gastronomy.
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3. Five-Day Cycling Tour from Beaugency
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 Days | 📍 LOCATION: Beaugency to Champtoceaux | ✅ Book it!
On this unforgettable 5-Day Loire Valley Cycling Tour from Beaugency, you’ll explore one of the most beautiful regions of France with an experience tour guide and discover all the main wine appellations of the Loire Valley.
You’ll begin your bike trip through the Loire Valley at Beaugency, near Orleans. Chambord and Cheverny will be on your way.
On the second day, you’ll cycle to Amboise, with its beautiful castle that holds the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, who painted the Mona Lisa.
The third day, you’ll travel from Chinon to Saumur and see troglodyte villages along the way.
On the fourth day, you’ll cycle in Eastern Angers, and you’ll reach the end of your cycling week at Champtoceaux.
Along the way, you’ll visit many vineyards in the Loire wine regions, learn about wine production in the Loire Valley, and taste red, white, rosé, and sparkling white wines. You’ll enjoy 3- or 4-star accommodations, with delicious dinners every evening.
Which Loire Valley Cycling Tour is best for me?
Here are some questions to help you choose the best Loire Valley cycling tour:
What daily distance are you comfortable riding? If you don’t often ride a bike, you might want to choose a day tour with a short ride to a chateau and back.
Are you an experienced cyclist? Avid cyclists may prefer a tour with a longer option, perhaps a multi-day tour. Experienced cyclists might consider renting a bike and designing their own cycling tour.
Will you be cycling with kids? If you want a family cycle tour, choose a tour that focuses on French history and one or more magnificent castles, rather than long distances or vineyards.
Are you nervous about your fitness level? If you’re worried about keeping up with your group, choose a tour with an electric bike. E-bikes are all the fun of cycling, with a lot less work!
Are you bad with directions? If so, choose a guided tour! That way you won’t have to worry about whether you should have gone left or right at that last turn!
What to expect on a Loire Valley Cycling Tour
While each tour is different, there are some things that you can expect from each bicycle tour on this list.
Most tours are for small groups. The minimum group size is set by each tour company.
Many tours include a stop for snacks or lunch.
Often, the tour will include a glass of wine, a wine tasting, or a vineyard tour. You might be offered local white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chenin Blanc. Or you can try reds, like Cabernet Franc, Chenin Noir, or Cabernet Sauvignon.
If you prefer not to drink alcohol, simply ask for a non-alcoholic option.
Many tours have chosen a cycle route that is along bike paths or quiet roads, so you don’t have to worry about traffic.
If the bike route goes through a city or small village, the guide will show you the best way to go, or you’ll be given clear directions and a map.
The cycle routes for these tours are generally fairly flat routes. The routes mainly have a gentle slope, but you can expect a few steep slopes.
If you are concerned about cycling abilities, you can opt for a cycling tour with electric bikes!
Luggage transfers are typically not included in single-day tours. However, if you need to have luggage held or transferred, enquire at the time of booking to see if this is a possibility. Luggage transfer is usually included in multi-day tours.
Some tours will pick you up and return you to your hotel after your day of cycling. (You could also request to be taken to the train station, if you’ll be traveling on after your bike tour–ask your tour company in advance to be sure.)
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Bike Rentals in Loire Valley
Would you rather rent a bike, design your own itinerary, and travel at your own pace? If you want a Loire Valley cycling holiday of your own design, rental bikes are the way to go!
It’s easy enough to rent bicycles in the Loire Valley. Rental companies offer bicycle hire in Tours, Blois, Orleans, Nantes, Amboise, as well as in many smaller towns.
Bike hire shops offer a variety of bikes, so you can choose exactly what you prefer. You can expect to find road bikes, hybrid bikes, trekking hybrids, touring bikes, child bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and electric bikes.
If you need accessories, bike hire shops also sell or rent child trailers, panniers, handlebar bags, child’s seats, tag-along bike trailers, and more.
If you wish to rent a bike for your Loire Valley holiday, make the reservation far in advance.
At most bike shops, you’ll find helpful, experienced cyclists who can advise you on the best cycling routes and where to stay along the way.
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What to bring on a Loire Valley cycling holiday
Whether you’ve booked a Loire Valley cycling tour or you’ve chosen a bike from a bike rental place, you’ll want to be sure you have what you need for your cycling holiday in this beautiful region of France!
Almost certainly, you’ll want to bring water bottles, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.
Whether you’re on a cycling tour or you’ve rented a bike, confirm what items are included with your reservation, beyond use of the bike (like panniers, a cell phone holder so you can see your route, a helmet, etc.).
If you are not on a cycling tour where snacks and meals are included, you’ll probably want to bring some snacks or a picnic.
If you’ve rented a bike, you might want to upgrade your bike or add extra features (for example, if you want disc brakes, carbon forks, clip-in pedals, etc.).
Final Thoughts on Cycling in the Loire Valley
Cycling through the Loire Valley is the perfect way to explore France’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and fabulous vineyards.
I love cycling tours, because they’re a great way to get some exercise and see the local landscape at a pace where you can take it all in.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist renting a bicycle from a bike shop or a tourist simply looking for a unique way to explore this enchanting region, cycling tours of the Loire Valley cater to a wide range of interests and fitness levels.
Chances are, these French bike tours will become one of your favorite memories of your time in France.
The Loire Valley, with its gentle hills, majestic rivers, and charming villages, is a journey back in time. On bicycle, you’ll have enough time to appreciate the land and rivers (as well as the region’s architectural and historical heritage) that has been carefully preserved and cherished through the ages.
You will love exploring the Loire Valley by bicycle.
As you plan your next getaway, consider taking an unforgettable cycling travel experience through the Loire Valley.
Adjust your saddle height, buckle your helmet, and get ready for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion, as you explore the Loire Valley by bike!
