Itinerary
- Day 1
Chinon
You'll arrive in Chinon, a medieval town sitting along the Vienne River where you're staying in a historic area once favored by King Henry II. After checking into your hotel, there's time to walk around and see the 12th century Plantagenet fortress, which housed Richard the Lionheart back in the day. It's a good chance to get your bearings and start feeling the rhythm of this Loire Valley town.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Optional Activities
- Explore the 12th century Plantagenet fortress in Chinon
- Walk along the banks of the Vienne River
Landmarks Chinon Fortress (Château de Chinon) Vienne River 
- Day 2
Chinon
Cycling begins today on a route that follows an old railway line heading from Chinon down to Château du Rivau, where you'll find a castle with gardens and botanical art installations scattered around the grounds. If you want to add more distance, the route continues to Richelieu, the town that Cardinal Richelieu himself founded. This is a nice way to ease into the cycling portion of your trip.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Dinner
Included Activities
- Cycling route following former railway to Château du Rivau
Optional Activities
- Visit Château du Rivau and explore its gardens and botanical art
- Extend route to the town of Richelieu
Landmarks Château du Rivau Richelieu 
- Day 3
Chinon to Montsoreau
You'll pedal along the Loire à Vélo route as it runs beside the river toward Montsoreau, a riverside town known as France's most beautiful village. Along the way, stop at Fontevraud Abbey, which has quite a history going from royal monastery to Napoleon's prison and now hosting music performances and exhibitions. By evening you'll reach Montsoreau and can settle in for the night.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Dinner
Included Activities
- Cycling along Loire à Vélo route to Montsoreau
- Stop at Fontevraud Abbey
Optional Activities
- Extended route option via Fontevraud Abbey with exploration of the abbey
Landmarks Montsoreau Fontevraud Abbey Loire River 
- Day 4
Montsoreau
This day is a break from long cycling, with options based on what interests you. Head to Saumur to see the château perched above the river, explore the wine cellars, and walk through medieval streets with plenty of dining choices. Or alternatively, cycle to Château de Brézé, another castle in wine country that has underground tunnels and working wine presses to see. Either way, you're staying based in Montsoreau.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Dinner
Included Activities
- Cycling to Saumur or Château de Brézé
Optional Activities
- Visit Saumur and explore its wine cellars
- Explore the medieval streets of Saumur
- Dine at restaurants in Saumur
- Visit Château de Brézé and explore underground tunnels and wine presses
Landmarks Saumur Château de Saumur Château de Brézé - Day 5
Montsoreau to Azay-le-Rideau
Cycling continues as you follow the Loire and then the River Indre to reach Azay-le-Rideau, a medieval village centered around Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, which sits on an island in the river. The village itself has good cafés and restaurants for lunch or just hanging out. It's a shorter ride than some days, giving you time to explore once you arrive.
- Meals
- Breakfast, Dinner
Included Activities
- Cycling along Loire to River Indre and into Azay-le-Rideau
Optional Activities
- Visit Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
- Explore cafés and restaurants in Azay-le-Rideau
Landmarks Château d'Azay-le-Rideau Azay-le-Rideau River Indre 
- Day 6
Azay-le-Rideau
After spending the morning in Azay-le-Rideau, head to Château Villandry, where the terraced gardens are the real draw. The geometric garden design is laid out on different levels, and it's the kind of place where you can bring lunch and spend a few hours just walking around and relaxing. You'll stay in the area or cycle back depending on your accommodation.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Included Activities
- Visit Château Villandry and explore terraced gardens
Optional Activities
- Picnic lunch at Château Villandry
Landmarks Château Villandry 
- Day 7
Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon
The final cycling day takes you back to Chinon, which gives you a chance to revisit the town with fresh eyes after a week in the region. Pick up some local souvenirs if there's anything you missed the first day, then walk along the Vienne River banks and settle in with a glass of local wine. It's a nice way to wind down and think back on the week.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Included Activities
- Cycling back to Chinon
Optional Activities
- Pick up souvenirs in Chinon
- Walk along the banks of the Vienne River
- Sample local wine in Chinon
Landmarks Chinon Vienne River - Day 8
Chinon Departure
Have breakfast outside in Chinon one last time before heading out. It's a low-key morning to say goodbye to the Loire Valley at your own pace before traveling onward.
- Meals
- Breakfast (Al fresco breakfast)
