This cycling tour starts in Tour, passes through Azat Le Rideau, Chinon and concludes in Saumur.  It crosses the Cher, Vienne and Thouet  rivers – tributaries of the Loire.  Whilst accommodation will usually be fairly close to the Loire a Velo Bike Route, there will be plenty of opportunity to explore the surrounding area – corn fields, vineyards, fields of sunflowers etc.  The route provides access to lots of winemakers, bars and restaurants!  There’s chateaux, museums, zoos, churches and abbeys in abundance.  If you rather “do” that “look” there are Boat trips, Hot air ballooning, canoes & kayaks, horse riding, golf and quad bikes available.

Tours lies between the Cher and Loire rivers – almost mid way along the Loire from Orleans to the sea.  It is a very popular tourist destination – the number of things to see, to do, to experience is vast.  The city is steeped in history:  King Charles VIII; Anne of Brittany; Cardinal Richelieu, Rodin, Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet, Degas, Leonardo da Vinci have all influenced the towns heritage.  There are beautiful gardens and parks, the old town, museums, markets, Châteaux and churches, restaurants, bars, guinguettes, wine-making – the list is a big one!

Azay-le-Rideau, on the Indre River, is the home of one of the most stunning Château in France.  In common with many other important structures of the region it is constructed of beautiful sandy-white tuffeau with a roof of regional blue-grey slate.  It is stunning!  The town provides several quality hotels, lots of B&Bs, restaurants, bars and of course many wine-tasting opportunities.  Not far away is the sometimes overlooked Château l’Islette – some time frequented by Auguste Rodin.  Basket making is dominant in the area and is best experienced on bike via the “De l’osier au panier” cycling route.

Chinon sits on the Vienne river within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Its past is full of “history” for both the English and French – too much to describe here!  (Henry II, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard I (the Lionheart), King John Lackland, Philip II Augustus, Philip IV the Fair,  the Knights Templar, Hundred Years’ War, Charles VII,  Joan of Arc, Louis XII,  François Rabelais, Duke of Richelieu)

Candes St Martin is acknowledged as one of the most picturesque villages in France.  A short ride through the pretty narrow streets of tuffeau stone houses with their slate roofs is very rewarding.

With its captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Saumur offers a travel experience like no other.  It serves as the perfect base for exploring the much of the Loire Valley, with its abundance of châteaux, vineyards, and natural wonders just waiting to be explored. Saumur is nestled in the heart of wine country, known for its world-class sparkling wines and charming vineyards.  Saumur is also synonymous with horsemanship – visit the famous Cadre Noir, the French National School of Horsemanship, and witness breathtaking equestrian displays that showcase the harmony between man and horse.

Saumur has principal rail connections to Tours & Angers and through these to Paris and Nantes.

Tour Airport has international connections with Dublin and London (Stansted).

Nantes Airport has connections from Algeria, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Martinique, Morocco, Netherlands, Portugal, Senegal, Spain, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey and United Kingdom.

All other arrivals would need to be via Paris, then taking the train to either Angers or Tours for the connection to Saumur.

Tours has rail connections to Saumur, Nantes and Paris.

Tours Airport has international connections with UK and Ireland.  Other European visitors could possibly fly to Nantes and get the train to Tours.  Beyond Europe you would fly to Paris, then take the train to Tours.

• Saumur Forest Adventures
• Thouet Kayaks
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Horse Riding
• Quad Biking

• Tours Cathedral
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
• Tours Botanical Garden
• Le Vieux Tours
• Hôtel Goüin
• Jardin des Prébendes d’Oé
• Château de Villandry
• Château d’Amboise
• Château d’Azay-le-Rideau
• Château de l’Islette
• Forteresse Royale de Chinon
• Candes st Martin
• Dolmen de Bagneux
• Musée des Blindés
• Cadre Noir
• Château de Saumur
• Château de Brézé
• Fontevraud Abbey
• Mushroom Museum

• Military Carousel
• Anjou Vélo Vintage
• Les Grandes Tablées
• Festivini Wine Festival
• Les Foulées du Champigny

Cycling from Tours to Saumur offers a delightful route that’s not only picturesque but also remarkably easy, making it accessible to cyclists of all levels. Starting in Tours, you’ll follow the gentle curves of the Loire River, with breathtaking scenery at every turn.  One of the greatest advantages of this journey is the mostly flat terrain. You won’t face steep inclines, making it perfect for families, casual cyclists, and those who simply want to take their time.   The route is well-marked and easy to navigate.  As you pedal along, you’ll pass through charming villages, each with its unique character. Enjoy stopping for a leisurely coffee, exploring local markets, and experiencing the warmth of the French countryside.  After a leisurely and scenic ride, you’ll arrive in Saumur, a town known for its historic château, vibrant cultural scene, and excellent wines. It’s the perfect destination to explore and unwind.

Cycling from Tours to Saumur is an easy and enjoyable journey that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and gourmet experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, this adventure is designed for everyone to appreciate the charm of the Loire Valley. Start planning your cycling trip today for an unforgettable and effortless ride through the heart of France.