Loire Valley Castles

Make your own way to Chitenay and the joining hotel. Optional transfers are available from Blois train station on request (extra cost applies). *The usual hotel is in the centre of the village where there are 3 or 4 simple shops. Your bike will be ready for your arrival on day 1 or by 9am on Day 2. *3 dinners are included (the dates and styles of which will be noted in your final documents. If you wish to change, please ask at the hotel on arrival).

From your base in Chitenay there are several excursions to choose from to explore the neighbouring chateaux, vineyards and forests: - loop cycle to the medieval castle of Fougeres-sur-Bievrel: 24km/15mi - This easy part of the Sologne is a pleasure for adults and children. Discover a delightful, charming route through quiet areas on cycle paths and roads with little traffic - loop cycle to Chambord: 64km/40mi - Cycle through the rich Domaine de Chambord forest, where a stop is essential to visit the most famous and majestic château in the Loire Valley. In its Renaissance splendour, the Château de Chambord boasts no less than 440 rooms. This stage offers different routes and the cycling is on cycle paths and roads with low traffic. Free access to the park of Chambord (also cycle routes). - loop cycle to Chaumont sur Loire: 38km/23.8mi - Following the rivers, pass through the former fishing village of Cande-sur-Beuvron and via private castles and remains of the medieval tower and gate in Les Montils. Continue along the Loire banks to Chaumont sur Loire, where you can visit the picturesque chateau overlooking the river. An annual 'Garden Festival' takes place in its majestic park from Jun-Sep, featuring different interpretations of artistic garden composition based on a common theme. An easy and flat stage through quiet areas with low traffic and cycle paths. - loop between vineyards and chateaux: 26km/16.25mi - Cycle through the 'Pays des Chateaux'. In Celettes there are no less than 18 castles! Some are well hidden in forests or vineyards, others such as Cheverny or Troussay will open their gate. Aggain, the cycling is through easy and lat countryside, through vineyards, fields and small villages on cycle paths and roads with low traffic. - Blois loop: 34km/21.3mi - Explore the charming city of Blois with its Chateau de Beauregard, cycling through the forest to the Loire river banks. Cycle paths and low traffic roads with a busy section approaching and leaving Blois. NOTE: If you have a car you may choose to drive to Chenonceaux or Amboise, which are 30-40km / 18.5-25mi from the hotel. Fit cyclists could cycle to Chenonceaux but you should allow at least 2-3 hours in addition to the cycle to visit the chateau and its impressive gardens including a maze.

Trip concludes in Chitenay after breakfast. An optional transfer to Blois train station is available on request (extra cost applies).