Cycling trips have surged in popularity over the last few years, and it isn’t difficult to see why. It is not only a way to travel while being mindful of your environmental footprint but also a premier way to explore a region’s landscapes and attractions at a slower pace.
The Loire Valley, in the heart of France, offers the dream playground you’ve been looking for. Between the unique charm of historical villages, castles, gardens, and vineyards, over 900 km of marked routes await cyclists of all levels. Plus, the region is ideally suited for family trips or those new to cycling, as the terrain is primarily flat, crisscrossed by well-marked bike paths, and dotted with rest areas.
Here are a few great leads to plan a cycling holiday along the royal river (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and enjoy the most beautiful landscapes of the Loire region at a rhythm dictated by your own pedals to the metal.
Your Loire Valley cycling itinerary and guide
To kick off your Loire Valley bike tour, simply fly into Paris or Nantes. From Paris, it’s incredibly easy to catch a train from Austerlitz station directly to Orléans at the eastern end, or into gateways like Blois and Tours—all of which sit within striking distance of the most iconic châteaux of the Loire Valley. If you start in Nantes, you can get on the saddle immediately, whether you’re chasing the breeze toward the Atlantic Ocean at Saint-Nazaire or heading inland toward the historic buildings of Angers and Saumur. In either case, daily stretches of 20 to 50 km—tailored to your fitness level—promise a wealth of beautiful discoveries along the way.
Where to stay?
For accommodation, keep an eye out for the “Accueil Vélo” label, which certifies that the facilities and services are tailored to the needs of cyclists. From affordable small hotels to luxury establishments, you can choose from several options located near the Loire à Vélo route. Here are a few favorites:
- Le Bois des Chambres, a new accommodation concept located directly on the grounds of the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire.
- The cozy rooms at Hôtel Le Clos d’Amboise and the Labe Hotel, which is ideally situated just steps from the Tours train station, are among our top picks.
How long does it take to cycle the Loire Valley routes?
Cycling the full 900 km route typically takes 10 to 15 days, depending on your itinerary, pace and stops. Most travelers focus on a specific stretch of the Loire, covering 40–50 km daily. Typical itineraries take about a week, allowing plenty of time to explore iconic landmarks.
What is the best time of year to visit and cycle the Loire Valley?
The ideal window is from April to September. For a quieter ride, late spring and early autumn provide mild temperatures and stunning flora colors.
Good to know: During the peak summer season, the specialized “Loire à Vélo” train links Orléans to Saint-Nazaire. It’s the perfect backup plan, allowing you to swap your bike for a train seat if the weather turns or your legs need a break. Just remember that reservations are mandatory!
Is the Loire Valley good for a cycling holiday? Find out at these iconic stops!
Tours
The capital of Touraine is an essential stop for foodies. Les Halles serves as the perfect starting point for a gourmet journey into the local gastronomy, which is famously defined by its goat cheeses, rillettes, rillons, nougat, and world-class wines like sparkling Vouvray.
This charming stroll through the historic center of Tours continues toward Place Plumereau—vibrant regardless of the time of day—with a recommended stop at the Basilica of Saint Martin. Nearby, the Saint-Gatien Cathedral is another religious landmark well worth a visit for its imposing architecture and magnificent stained glass.
Amboise
Nestled along the banks of the Loire, the royal city of Amboise charms with its peaceful atmosphere and consistent architecture, characterized by white stone buildings and cobbled streets. Recognized as the capital of the French Renaissance, the city hosted the court of the Kings of France in the 15th century and was the final home of Leonardo Da Vinci, who moved to Clos Lucé in 1516. The great Italian master’s tomb can still be visited today in the castle chapel.
A local institution famous for its chocolates, fruit jellies, and regional specialties like Touraine nougat, Maison Bigot is also an essential stop in the old town of Amboise.
Chaumont-sur-Loire
With a history dating back to the 15th century, the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire is a true jewel of the Loire Valley, distinguished by its unique blend of tradition and modernity. To step back in time, you can tour the château that served as a home to influential women throughout the centuries, including Catherine de Médicis, Diane de Poitiers, and Princess Henri-Amédée de Broglie. When the sun is out, the historic English-style park invites you on a pleasant stroll to discover various works of art.
The International Garden Festival, held from April to November, is an unmissable event. Each year, this creative competition showcases the talent of landscape architects and artists from around the globe. It offers something for everyone, with guided tours and children’s activities organized around the competition’s annual theme.
Chambord
Built starting in 1519 for King Francis I, the Château de Chambord is the most iconic Renaissance monument in the Loire Valley and arguably all of France, famous for its double-helix staircase and its sublime arrangement of slate turrets.
You can easily dedicate an entire day to visiting the grounds of this vast estate, which features over 30 km of trails to explore on foot or by bike, magnificent French-style gardens, several rest and dining areas, and even vineyards. For a memorable gastronomic experience, book a table at the Relais de Chambord restaurant.
Orléans
If you are passionate about art and history, Orléans is an absolute must. Famous for its heroine, Joan of Arc, the city charms visitors with a youthful, dynamic energy that is clearly reflected in its culinary scene.
To learn more about the production methods of the oldest vinegar maker in Orléans, plan a visit to Maison Martin-Pouret, which features a boutique in the center and a culinary lab on the outskirts of the city. Place du Martroi, the Sainte-Croix Cathedral, and the Museum of Fine Arts are also key highlights of this tourist circuit.
Which bike rental service should you choose?
- The Tourism Offices of Tours and Orléans: They are now offering a new “Pass Loire à Vélo.” This package includes a classic bike and helmet rental for the duration of your pass (24, 48, or 72 hours), along with wine and local product tastings. It also covers admission to various museums and iconic châteaux, including Azay-le-Rideau, Amboise, Clos Lucé, Chambord, Chenonceau, and Chaumont-sur-Loire.
- RandoVélo: Well-established in Blois, this company provides bike rentals for all ages, including electric-assist models. For a turnkey experience, they design three-to-eight-day tours as well as custom stays, which include a support vehicle with luggage transport between your different accommodations.
- Détours de Loire: If you are planning a route through the Loire-Atlantique region instead, look to Détours de Loire. Their services include rentals for a wide variety of bike models and sizes, as well as luggage transfer services.
