Bicycle tours in France Loire Valley | Adventure Travel Blog

January 21, 2011

The Lure of the Loire Valley

Why a bicycle tour in Loire?

Let Tommy Pace, one of our guides in France, explain the magical experience that lies await in this charming FrenchValley…

Meticulously manicured Loire garden

Thanks to fertile soils and a mild climate that allow for a diversity of agriculture and wildlife to thrive, the Loire valley is known as the Jardin de la France, the Garden of France. It was for this reason that the kings and nobility of France decided to reside here. The hillsides above the river floor are littered with Châteaux that display architecture from France’s Renaissance.

This is the place for History buffs; the region boasts more than 1000 châteaux and it is associated with such famous persons as Joan of Arc, François I, Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medicis & Leonardo DaVinci. Our tour visits the finest Châteaux and gardens in the region, a wonderful treat for fans of art and architecture.

One of the many of Chateaux in the Loire

The Loire valley is also the place for families. For our specific family bicycle tour in the Loire Valley, we’ve taken the best visits of the region and expanded them to include more dynamic family fun. The famed cartoonist Hergé was inspired by the Château de Cheverny. He created Marlinspike Hall, an oft-used backdrop in his Tintin collection. This location, with its wonderful decoration, hunting dogs and Tintin exhibition is where you will start your family tour. The family tour also highlights Clos Lucé, Leonardo DaVinci’s home in France. Here everyone will be able to appreciate the hands-on exhibit of war machines, helicopters and other innovative creations on display in the manor and gardens where DaVinci spent the final years of his life. My personal favorite - fencing lessons – they will prepare everyone for their next duel!

Cycling in the Loire Valley

If the BIKE in DuVine motto is more your thing, then don’t overlook the Loire. The scenery makes this one of the top cycling destinations in the world and one of our top bike tours in France. In a mere 30 kilometers, you’ll be able to cruise through enchanting forests, pedal past the historic Romorantin grapes, coast alongside the Loire, and cycle by beautiful gardens. The roads are mellow and abound with relaxing vistas.

Fresh ingredients from lush farm fields need not travel far before they are turned into stunning creations on some of the finest tables in France. Fine dining will not be overlooked as you explore the region. With reservations already made for Michelin rated restaurants, we can assure that expert chefs will please even the most discerning palates on the tour.

If wine is your vice, then DuVine delivers! The Loire region is home to a diverse collection of appellations and cépages. The whites can be made from Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and the ancient Romorantin grapes. Styles vary – dry, sweet, semi-sweet and even sparkling wines can feature flavors of honey, apple, slate, flint, violets and more. The reds, while at times overlooked, highlight the Gamay, Côt and Cabernet varietals. All choices match perfectly with the myriad of goat cheeses found throughout the valley.

In true DuVine style, the accommodations are second to none. From the top rated Domaine des Hauts de Loire to the cozy Manoir Saint-Thomas, rest and relaxation are easy to find. Whether you prefer to stroll the private gardens or sip sparkling wine poolside, you’ll be thrilled with the accommodations that we’ve selected.