An unforgettable cycling trip for the whole family through the green hills of France, along Renaissance castles full of history and hidden legends. An original and entertaining way to discover this popular area on two wheels.

This easy-going route leads you through the Loire Valley, also known as the ‘Cradle of the French’, being it one of the mayor areas for fruit, vegetables and wine production. Average temperatures of 16-20ºC in summer combined with soft rolling hills and green forests make this a perfect area for a cycling trip.

The main attraction of the region are its castles (châteaux in French) and the reason why part of the valley is listed by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Even though some of the castles date back as far as the Middle Ages, most of them were rebuilt or restored during the French Renaissance, when the royals used to come to the area to relax and enjoy.

This 7-day family cycling trip starts in Blois and leads you to Amboise. With daily stages of 20 to 33 kilometres on mainly flat and well paved bike lanes and quiet roads, it’s an ideal route for the whole family.

ITINERARY
Discover the town of Blois at an easy pace. Wander around its historical centre or visit the castle. Make sure you don’t miss out on The House of Magic, dedicated to the magician Robert Houdin who used to live here. A museum where magic happens in every corner!

The next stage of the route will take you to the Chambord Castle, a true masterpiece of the French Renaissance with its 440 rooms and impressive spiral stairs, built during the reign of Francis I.

Time for an excursion to the Château de Cheverny, where Hergé got the inspiration for Captain Haddock's Marlinspike, and ride onwards to the natural open-air organic swimming pool, where you can take a break, swim and enjoy its spectacular surroundings.

Crossing the vineyards of Cheverny, reaching Chaumont-sur-Loire, where the 15^th Century castle impressively overlooks the town and river. The final stage leads you to Amboise, famous for its castle where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life.

All in all, this trip designed for the whole family, is an easy and enjoyable way of spending the holidays and discover one of France’s most popular areas at your own pace.