Loire Bikes: the Châteaux of the Loire Valley by bike!
Attracted by the extraordinary landscapes of Val de Loire, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, we decided to discover them at our own pace, by bike. And so we headed to the bike-rental agency Loire Bikes, located
just a stone’s throw from the Tourist Office, to pick up our rides.
Picking up our bikes from Loire Bikes
We were welcomed by Léopold, who presented our e-bikes to us (there’s no flies on him!), which he had specially prepared and polished for us! He recommended the signposted circuit no 47 which runs from the banks of the Loire to the banks of the Cher, from Château d’Amboise to Château de Chenonceau. A royal programme!
A few safety warnings later and we found ourselves pedalling along the banks of the Loire. We joined the famous
‘Loire à Vélo’ route from the centre of Amboise, then made our way along the royal river for around 2 km. The forecast was a little doubtful for late spring, but a few rays of sun managed to peek through. The effects of the Loire’s recent flood were clearly visible, and its waters weren’t as clear as they would normally be in May.
On the cycle paths between Loire and Cher
We left the banks of the Loire to head south. It was time to say goodbye to Amboise, as we started along a little road climbing the hills. A huge thank you to the electric assist of our Loire Bikes, because our legs weren’t ready for this little climb – the only one on our journey. On the heights of Amboise, we gazed upon a magnificent landscape. Straight ahead, we saw a majestic forest, penetrated by a fantastic cycle path. Surrounded by flowering apple trees, we caught a glimpse of a very unique monument above the treetops: the Pagode de Chanteloup.
Then, it was time for a few photos before we set off again. This long cycle trail, protected by a vaulted roof of trees, is simply magnificent! We pedalled along this way for around 6 km, towards the village of Dierre. Then, we left the forest and discovered a new landscape as the trees were replaced by vines. A few meanders later, we crossed the Cher at the village of Bléré. We were still on circuit no 47, which takes the name of ‘Cœur de France à Vélo’ at this point. Gentler than the Loire, the Cher is nevertheless a very high river. We rode along just by the river, meeting some fishers on the way, as well as a few swans. In the distance, an instantly recognisable silhouette suddenly appeared!
The royal route between Amboise and Chenonceau!
The mythical Château de Chenonceau! The so-called Ladies’ Castle crosses the Cher and offers up some picture-postcard views. This called for a photo stop! We took the time to enjoy a little snack, without ever taking our eyes off the spectacle that presented itself before us. In Chenonceau, two routes are possible: follow loop no 47 and cross the forest, followed by the village of Saint-Règle. Or, retrace your steps and go back along the beautiful way you came. We opt for the second way, for a total of under 5 km. The way back is just as beautiful as the way there, and we even tried following a little section of the Loire à Vélo, just before returning to Amboise, until we reached the village of Lussault-sur-Loire. On the banks of the Loire, a beautiful picnic area equipped with several tables had been set up, with unbeatable views over the river. This was the chance for a final contemplative break before returning to the royal city.
Our morning with cycles rented from Loire Bikes was a real pleasure! We didn’t even feel the many kilometres crossed. Léopold showed us how to use the various features of our e-bikes, and we had absolutely no trouble. This circuit has a very moderate gradient and the quality of the cycle paths is impeccable. We particularly appreciated the vast diversity of landscapes, from the banks of the wild Loire to the forest, via the villages of Touraine and the vineyards of the Loire. We didn’t meet many people along the way, just a few cyclists here and there and a handful of hikers. We enjoyed the calm, the fresh air and the magnificence of this region’s landscapes and monuments.
Useful information
- Loire Bikes is located on 8 Rue de Verdun, Amboise.
- To book
- Bikes are provided with helmet, lock and front bag. If necessary, large rear bags can be rented at an additional cost.
- 4 different models of e-bikes adapted to all sizes, for amateur, family or athletic use.
- Equipment specially dedicated to families: children’s two-seater trailer, tag-along bike and children’s bikes from age 6 to 12.
- They have a wide selection of traditional and electric bikes, but booking is nevertheless recommended.
- A charger is provided for rentals of more than one day, or if a trailer is rented.
- Léopold and his team can be contacted throughout your rental.
- The shop is open 7 days a week, from 09:00 to 19:00
- Follow Loire Bikes on Facebook and Instagram
