Getting Bougie Bicycling in France/ Loire Valley

sponsor

Print-Friendly Version

Add this event to your calendar (Outlook, iCalendar)

Add REGISTRATION REMINDER to your calendar

REGISTRATION & PAYMENT REQUIRED: Once you've reviewed the event details, and decided you'd like to join us, you MUST sign up at the bottom of this page. This is a paid event with payment managed through the AOC. Please read the event description carefully for details; you will be given payment instructions after you sign up. Late payments are NOT accepted for this event, in any circumstance.

Getting Bougie Bicycling in France/ Loire Valley

The Basics:

Event Type:

Bike

Event Location:

France/ Loire Valley

Date(s) & Time:

Sat, Jun 19 2027 8:00 am >> Fri, Jun 25 2027 9:00 am

Registration Opens:

Wed, Jul 22 2026 6:11 pm

Registration Cut Off:

Thu, Nov 5 2026 6:11 pm

Event Duration:

6 Days 1 Hours

Difficulty Rating:

D3: Moderate

Pace:

Moderate

Trip Leader(s):

Lisa Maldonado

Email Trip Leader(s)
You must be logged in to get the Trip Leader contact information.

Member Cost:

$25.00/Person (See Detailed Cost Info Below)

Participant Info:

Who's Invited:

Members Only, 21 And Older Only

Maximum Group Size:

Minimum Group Size:

Number Registered So Far:

1 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)

Are Dogs Permitted:

Itinerary:

We will be booking this event through BRAG

https://brag.org/

We will be getting a little Fancy in France. The cost of this trip will be paid directly to BRAG. During free time we will explore this beautiful area of France. Please Register on this link.upon signing up.

https://international.brag.org/loire-valley-atloutdoorclub?cmpid=1784307282

June 19th:Upon landing in Paris, you'll make your way to Tours at your own pace, where your adventure begins. Check in at the beautiful Château Belmont Tours, your home for the next 2 nights, a charming and elegant retreat surrounded by lush gardens. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the vibrant streets of Tours at your leisure—perhaps stroll along the Loire River, visit the historic Old Town, or relax in a café.

Later, we'll conduct bike fittings to ensure you're ready for the week ahead. This evening, we all get together for a welcome dinner and a walk around town.

June 20th:

Villandry - 28 Miles

Embark on an unforgettable adventure by following the 'Loire à vélo' cycling path, which will take you to the charming town of Villandry. There, you will have the opportunity to explore the world-renowned 'French style' Renaissance gardens.

Be amazed by the 'Ornamental Kitchen Garden', where a variety of vegetables and herbs are beautifully arranged in intricate patterns. Stroll through the 'Garden of Love', which features a heart-shaped pond surrounded by fragrant roses and other flowers. Take in the tranquil beauty of the 'Water Garden', where fountains and waterfalls create a serene atmosphere. Finally, bask in the sun while you explore the 'Sun Garden', where you'll find a variety of colorful blooms and exotic plants.

While in Villandry, take the time to visit the Castle of Villandry, a magnificent structure that boasts a stunning 'A la Française' garden. Please note that the visit is non-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace and take in all the details of this breathtaking place.

After enjoying the gardens, take a leisurely ride back to Tours along the peaceful countryside routes. Once you return to Tours, indulge in a relaxing picnic by the Cher River, where you can savor some of the local delicacies while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Finally, cap off your day with a delicious dinner at the Place Plumereau restaurant in Tours, where you can sample some of the finest French cuisine in the region.

MEALS Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACTIVITIES Tour Renaissance Gardens; Visit Villandry Castle; Picnic along the Cher River; Fine dining at Place Plumereau

DAILY MILEAGE 28 miles/45 km

ACCOMMODATIONS Château Belmont Tours

MEALS Dinner

June 21:

Tours to Amboise - 24 Miles

A 24-mile (about 39 km) bike ride from Tours to Amboise along the Loire River is a beautiful and relatively easy route, especially popular along the Loire à Vélo trail.

Begin in Tours, a vibrant city known for its historic architecture and lively cafes. The route follows the north bank of the Loire River, with views of Renaissance buildings and charming riverside streets. As you pedal out of Tours, the city gives way to the natural beauty of the riverbanks, and you’ll start to see vineyards and the occasional château in the distance.

As you approach Amboise, the landscape changes with denser vegetation, and you may see the imposing Château d'Amboise in the distance, set high above the river.

MEALS Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACTIVITIES Wine tasting; Lunch on the banks of Loire River; Château d'Amboise

DAILY MILEAGE 24 miles/48 km

ACCOMMODATIONS Clos d’Amboise

June 22nd:

Chenonceaux - 28 Miles

Our bike ride today will take us through the beautiful forest of Amboise and we will eventually reach the famous Château de Chenonceau, which is a stunning castle that straddles the Cher river. The castle has a fascinating history and was the site of a historic rivalry between two powerful women, Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.

During our visit to the castle, we will have the opportunity to engage in various activities. We'll enjoy a relaxing canoe trip on the Cher River and later have a pleasant picnic on its banks, surrounded by the beautiful scenery. We will also take a guided tour of the Castle of Chenonceau to learn more about its rich history, including the various owners and the many significant events that took place there.

In the evening, we will have dinner at the Arpent restaurant, which is known for its delicious food and cozy atmosphere. It will be the perfect end to a wonderful day filled with adventure and exploration.

MEALS Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACTIVITIES Canoe the Cher; Guided Tour Château de Chenonceau; Picnic along the Cher River; Dine at Arpent

DAILY MILEAGE 28 miles/45 km

ACCOMMODATIONS Clos d’Amboise

June 23:

Amboise to Chambord - 40 Miles

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the sprawling Domaine de Chambord forest, which is home to the most famous and majestic château in the Loire Valley. As you cycle through the forest, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and stunning wildlife.

First, we head to a charming vineyard in Cheverny, where you'll indulge in a delightful wine tasting and savor a delicious lunch featuring local specialties. You'll have the chance to learn about the vineyard's winemaking process and take in the picturesque scenery.

After your exhilarating ride, you'll enjoy a guided visit of the Château of Chambord, where you'll be transported back in time to the Renaissance era. Marvel at the ornate architecture, intricate details, and fascinating history of this iconic landmark.

Finally, cap off your day of adventure with a relaxing dinner at the Relais de Chambord hotel. This luxurious hotel boasts a warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as delicious cuisine made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

MEALS Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACTIVITIES Guided Tour Chambord Castle; Visit Domaine de Chambord forest; Wine tasting

DAILY MILEAGE 40 miles/64 km

June 24th:

Chambord Tour - 26 Miles

This scenic cycling loop begins and ends at Relais de Chambord, offering a relaxed yet immersive experience through the lush French countryside. The route takes you along peaceful paths and small rural roads, winding past vineyards, forests, and charming villages.

Midway, you'll reach the iconic Château de Chambord with its grand architecture and sprawling grounds. Pause here to admire the castle’s stunning Renaissance design and surrounding gardens before continuing the loop back. This route is ideal for cyclists wanting a mix of nature and history, complete with iconic Loire Valley landscapes.

MEALS Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACTIVITIES Tour Chambord Castle

ACCOMMODATIONS Relais de Chambord

June 25th:

Bid Farewell

Today marks the end of our journey at Chambord, and we must prepare to depart from the tour. As we reflect on the memories we've made, we feel a sense of bittersweet emotion. While we're sad to leave this beautiful place behind, we're also excited for the adventures that await us in the future.

We'll always cherish the moments we spent here, and the people we met along the way. As we say our final goodbyes, we'll carry the spirit of Loire Valley with us wherever we go.

MEALS Breakfast

ACTIVITIES Shuttles to Charles de Gaulle Airport

While cycling we will split up into 2 - 3 groups depending on the group size and rider speeds. There will be a leader of your group and a sweeper for the entire ride as well as SAG. Please stay with your group and do not deviate from the group's route. We will email you a link to routes on Ride with GPS closer to the trip dates.

please use this link to register up and signing up. https://international.brag.org/loire-valley-atloutdoorclub?cmpid=1784307282

Required Items to Bring:

Passport

Cash or Credit Card for any additional spending

Sunscreen

Water Bladder

Good Sneakers

Rain Gear

Recommended Items to Bring:
Use our Event Checklists to make sure you have everything you need.

Camera

Bicycle shorts

How to Get There:

Event Directions:

Book a flight to Paris

Notes:

There will be vans on the route providing SAG services. They will hopscotch the group and set up rest stops as well. If you have a medical or mechanical issue they can pick you up and transport you to your destination.

Important information for paid events in which payment is managed through the AOC:

- Payment must be received by the payment due date and prior to participation in the event.

- Some paid events require a minimum number of registered participants. If that number is not met, the event will be canceled and refunds will be issued to those who have already paid.

- Third-party vendors often require damage deposits. Each registrant agrees to be liable for and required to reimburse the Atlanta Outdoor Club for any withheld deposits due to the actions of or damages caused by that registrant.

- No partial payments. All registrants must pay the posted Member Cost regardless of any agreement you may have with any party involved in the event.

- Read the event description carefully for additional information, and contact the trip leader(s) with any questions.

* We encourage all members to follow our Etiquette Guidelines while participating in AOC events.

Cost & Payment:

Member Cost:

$25.00/Person

Cost Includes:

A $25 non refundable donation must be paid to AOC directly

$4599 must be paid to BRAG. You must go directly to their website to register upon signing up. Spots are going fast. Dont lose out on your spot. Please send me a message after you register.

What's Included?

6 nights in 4-star hotels
6 breakfasts
5 lunches
6 Dinners
Snacks for stops on the way
Bikes & Accessories for 5 days(Scott brand bikes. Ebikes available. Equipment includes panniers, handlebar bag, & smartphone holder)
Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel
Support van Tuesday-Friday
2 local & knowledgeable bike guides, plus BRAG guides
Guided tours for castles of Chambord, Clos Lucé and Chenonceau
Entrance tickets for castles of Villandry, Chaumont-sur-Loire
2 wine tastings in Chambord and Vouvray
Canoe trip on the Cher River under the castle of Chenonceau
Travel documents with maps, navigation app
City taxes

Not Included

flights
ground transportation to and from airport
alcohol

Payment Cut Off:

Payment must be received by the AOC on Thu, Nov 5 2026.

Make a Payment:

Click here for the details. PLEASE PAY AFTER YOU HAVE SIGNED UP BELOW.

Cancellation/Partial Attendance: Please review the AOC cancellation policy.
*Note:

It is reccomended to purchase the Insurance policy upon registering. There will be no refund given through Bragg. $25 dollar AOC donation is non refundable. We will try to replace your registration for someone on the waiting list. The insurance policy will refund up to 120 days before the trip minus a 4% recovery fee. Please read the Cancellation information on Brag Website. https://brag.org/refund/