The Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a paradise for cyclists. With its varied landscapes, picturesque villages and, of course, magnificent châteaux, the region offers cycling routes to suit all tastes and abilities.

Whether you're a history buff or just a nature lover, you're bound to find something to suit you among the many châteaux dotted around the Loire Valley.

Here are just some of the must-see châteaux to visit by bike :

1. Château de Chambord
This Renaissance château is now the most visited of the Loire châteaux. It is a true architectural masterpiece. Admire its imposing façade, turrets and double spiral staircase, then explore its vast gardens and grounds.
Behind this masterpiece lies the influence of Leonardo da Vinci, adviser to King Francis I. His philosophy and inventiveness can be felt in the perfect symmetry of the building and the ingenious features dotted around the estate.
A must for your cycling trip in the Loire Valley!

2. Château de Chenonceau
Chenonceau, nicknamed the ‘Château des Dames’, is a Renaissance jewel built on a bridge across the Cher. This enchanting setting, one of the most popular in France, offers a romantic stroll through history. Take a stroll through the gardens and admire the colourful flowerbeds. Let yourself be charmed by the unique atmosphere of this castle, witness to the lives of the queens and favourites of France.

3. Château de Villandry
Stroll through the gardens of Villandry, a veritable ode to beauty and harmony. This Renaissance château is famous for its terraces, ponds, labyrinths and vegetable gardens, spread over several levels.
This is undoubtedly what will bring you to Villandry, and you can spend hours wandering through the alleys. The gardens of Villandry invite you on a colourful and harmonious journey to the heart of Touraine.

4. Amboise Castle
Perched on a hill overlooking the Loire, the Château d'Amboise offers an exceptional panoramic view of the valley. Admire the majestic architecture of this Renaissance château, which has been the residence of numerous kings of France.
Don't miss a visit to the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, where Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his last years here, is buried. Discover the story of this Italian genius and his links with the Château d'Amboise.

5. Château de Cheverny
Nicknamed the ‘castle of 365 chimneys’, Cheverny invites you to take a trip back in time to the heart of the Renaissance. Admire its period furniture, tapestries and paintings, and discover the fascinating story of the Hurault family, guardians of the castle for over 500 years.
Immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of this magnificently preserved Renaissance château and let the secrets of its ancestral walls be told to you. Cheverny is much more than just a château: it's a veritable heritage treasure trove that will transport you back through the centuries.

To conclude:

The Loire Valley is an ideal destination for a cycling holiday. With its majestic châteaux, varied landscapes and villages steeped in history, the region offers cyclists a unique and unforgettable setting.

Every kilometre you cycle will reveal a new treasure of this region rich in history and beauty.

So get on your bike and discover the wonders of the Loire Valley!

Paulette is a network of bike hire agencies. You can find us on the Canal de Nantes à Brest, the Loire à vélo, the Vélodyssée, the Canal latéral à la Garonne, the Méditerranée à vélo and the Canal du Midi in Brest, Tours, Nantes, Lyon, Arles, Mâcon, Chalon sur Saône, Montélimar, Paris, La Rochelle, Royan, Bordeaux, Sète, Béziers, Narbonne, Biarritz and Toulouse.

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