From Angers to Tours: Along the Loire
Day 1
69 km
Angers → Saumur
Leaving Angers, you follow the Maine River southeastward until the Loire gradually unfolds, lined with picturesque villages. Pause in Les Rosiers-sur-Loire, with its flowered quays and tuffeau-stone houses.
You then enter the Saumur wine region, dotted with estates offering tastings. In Gennes, visit the hilltop Saint-Vétérin church and Roman ruins overlooking the river.
Approaching Saumur, the ride eases into gentle rhythms. This is the longest stage—ideal for fully immersing yourself in the flow of a Loire Valley cycling adventure. The château rises like a sentinel above the river, while the first troglodyte caves hint at an elegant stopover.
Day 2
45 km
Saumur → Rigny-Ussée
The day begins beside the river, with chalk cliffs and wide open views. You pass through Montsoreau, a listed village where the château seems to float on the water. Just beyond, the cobbled streets of Candes-Saint-Martin invite a leisurely wander.
Continuing along the Loire, you reach Rigny-Ussé, where the enchanting château—linked to the Sleeping Beauty legend—marks the end of today’s stage. A fairy-tale setting to close a dreamy day.
Day 3
44 km
Rigny-Ussé → Tours
The final day blends rural charm with remarkable heritage. You ride toward the Château de Villandry, famed for its immaculate French gardens—well worth a stop.
In Savonnières, explore the petrifying caves—a geological wonder hidden in nature.
Arriving in Tours is gentle and scenic, following the banks of the Cher. Finish in style with a detour to Place Plumereau, the lively heart of the old town. Return your bike at the Paulette agency at 6 Place Michelet, just steps from the train station.