Loire Escape between Blois and Amboise

Le Vélo voyageur's Blois to Amboise tour is a self-guided three-day ride through the heart of the Loire Valley, tracing dedicated Loire à Vélo cycle paths past some of France's most celebrated châteaux. Starting in Blois, riders pass through the forest surrounding Château de Chambord before reaching Cheverny, famed for inspiring Tintin's Moulinsart château.

The second day offers a choice of routes, either via Château de Beauregard's portrait gallery or the fortified Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre, before following the Loire to Chaumont-sur-Loire, home to the International Garden Festival. The final, shorter day winds along back roads to royal Amboise, finishing at Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last home.

Riders travel independently at their own pace, guided by a smartphone app with turn-by-turn directions and local recommendations, with phone support available daily.

Highlights:

• Ride through the forest of Château de Chambord and visit its gardens
• Explore Cheverny, said to have inspired Tintin's château
• Choice of routes via Château de Beauregard or Château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre
• Chaumont-sur-Loire and its International Garden Festival (22 Apr to 1 Nov)
• Finish at Amboise, with an optional visit to Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last home

Surface and terrain:
Dedicated Loire à Vélo cycle paths and quiet country roads through forests and vineyards. Described as easy, secure and very low elevation gain, suited to beginners and experienced riders alike.

**Weather: **
May-June is generally mild with fewer crowds than peak summer.

Suitable for:
Families and first-time bike tourers; rated "fairly easy." Minimum age 7 for children pedalling independently, with trailers, seats or tow bars available for younger kids.