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France: The Loire

Multi Activity in the Loire

Trip code: M05LO

Average customer rating 5.0 / 5(4 verified reviews)

Self-Guided Canoeing
5 nights hotel-to-hotel
Leisurely
CO₂ rating 1/5
Agent supplied app

Trip highlights

Peaceful waters, relaxing atmosphere and enchanting places at the heart of the nature

Listed as Unesco World Heritage, the Loire river is the longest river of France and is inextricably linked to the country’s History

The Loire a Velo is a unique route perfect for bike lovers to enjoy while exploring the scenic Loire Valley

Splendour of the ‘jewel’ in the Loire crown, the Renaissance Chateau de Chenonceau, Blois, Amboise and Chaumont are waiting for you

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Trip details

Experience a journey in the Valley of the Kings cycling, canoeing and walking where stunning scenery and rich history contribute to this region reputation as the most romantic destination.

What's included

Included

  • 5 nights in 3-star and 4-star accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Briefing at the start of your holiday
  • Navigation app
  • Luggage transfers between hotels

Not included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance

Your bike

Hand-picked for the route, hire included

Scott, Sub Sport 20 or equivalent. Your bike hire is included in the price of your holiday and comes equipped with the relevant essentials, plus rear pannier, phone holder and handlebar bag.

Travel options

Our travel specialists can arrange flights, rail and transfers to this holiday from wherever you are. Call us to plan your journey. +44 1606 720099

Itinerary

Route map, with each night's stop marked
The full route, night by night. Select the map to view it full screen.

Day 1 · —Arrival in Blois

Arrival in Blois

Explore the cobbled streets, arcaded squares and impressive chateau of this pretty riverside town before dinner.

You stay at Hotel Novotel

Novotel Blois
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Hotel Novotel

Blois

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Tea & coffee
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Located 5-minutes from the historic town centre of Blois, the Hotel Novotel is in the heart of the administrative zone. Opposite the Halle aux Grains, and is only 15 minutes by foot from the Château de Blois and Maison de la Magie, making it a perfect base for sightseeing.
Completely renovated in 2018, each room at the Novotel Blois Centre Val de Loire is modern and comfortable.

Day 2 · —Blois - Amboise 29km cycling / 10 km canoeing

Blois - Amboise 29km cycling / 10 km canoeing

Cycle along the river on the ‘Loire a Velo’ cycling path and ride through tiny villages to Chaumont-sur-Loire and its spectacular chateau, which hosts the International Garden Festival (May-Oct). In the afternoon, change your point of view : paddle the amazing Loire river providing fantastic views. Follow peacefully the river and discover the fauna and flora. Have a break on one of the wild island, before arriving at foot of the majestic Chateau of Amboise

You stay at Hotel Bellevue

Hotel Bellevue Amboise
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Hotel Bellevue

Amboise

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Situated in the centre of Amboise in the Centre region, this hotel is just 50 m from Château d’Amboise. It offers a terrace and a lounge bar and restaurant.

Each of the soundproofed guest rooms at Hotel Bellevue is equipped with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. They also include a private bathroom with a shower or a bathtub.

Breakfast including fresh fruit, bread and cakes is served in the spacious breakfast room or on the terrace on sunny mornings. Eggs, bacon and sausages are also provided. Drinks can be enjoyed in the hotel’s bar.

Day 3 · 19km/11.8miAt Amboise (walking)

At Amboise (walking)

Amboise has a charming medieval feel, with historical links to the French Royal Family and also connections to Leonardo da Vinci who spent his last few years at Clos Luce, now a museum which houses displays of some of the artist’s original work. Da Vinci’s tomb is housed in the majestic Chateau d’Amboise which also hosts the impressive Son et Lumiere display. Amboise offers plenty of restaurants and cafes in which to relax and sample the local wines and produce.

Alternatively, you can explore the vineyards of Amboise on a circular walk.

Day 4 · —Amboise - Chenonceaux 21 km cycling / 4 km canoeing

Amboise - Chenonceaux 21 km cycling / 4 km canoeing

Gentle pedalling through the vineyards will bring you to the superb Chateau de Chenonceau with its famous arches majestically spanning the river. Described as floating ‘on air and water’, it’s arguably the most beautiful of all the Loire landmarks.

Stroll along the banks of the Cher to discover the flora and fauna of the valley, and of course the Château de Chenonceau from a new angle, as you pass under the arches of this magnificent architectural masterpiece!

You stay at Hotel La Roseraie

Hotel La Roseraie Chenonceaux
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Hotel La Roseraie

Chenonceaux

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Ideally situated in the centre of Chenonceaux and just a 400m from the chateau, the Hotel La Roseraie, built in the 18th century offers comfortable rooms and a wonderful place to relax after a day walking or sightseeing with its garden and pool.

Day 5 · 37km/23.0mi or 45km/28.0miChenonceaux - Tours (cycling)

Chenonceaux - Tours (cycling)

Keep follow the peaceful bike path between the river and beautiful mansions. Then reach another royal place the beautiful château de la Bourdaisière. Do not miss the unique vegetable gardens ! Ride through the vineyards of Vouvray where numerous wine tasting opportunities are waiting for you. Taste the ‘Chenin’ great white wines then continue on the charming path along the Loire river banks that will lead you to the historical centre of Tours.

You stay at Artist Hotel

Artist Hotel Tours
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Artist Hotel

Tours

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

The contemporary design of the hotel, with many references to the 7th Art, exudes a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. An artistic way of life, but with all the comfort, perfect to enjoy a relaxing city break: queen size beds, air conditioning, fitness room and a lounge bar.

Each morning, a delicious breakfast buffet is served from 6.30 am to better meet the expectations of our business clientele or early bird.

Day 6 · —Leave Tours

Leave Tours

Extending your holiday

Artist Hotel Tours
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Artist Hotel

Tours

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Safe
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

The contemporary design of the hotel, with many references to the 7th Art, exudes a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. An artistic way of life, but with all the comfort, perfect to enjoy a relaxing city break: queen size beds, air conditioning, fitness room and a lounge bar.

Each morning, a delicious breakfast buffet is served from 6.30 am to better meet the expectations of our business clientele or early bird.

Novotel Blois
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Hotel Novotel

Blois

  • Air conditioning
  • Hairdryers
  • Minibar
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Tea & coffee
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Located 5-minutes from the historic town centre of Blois, the Hotel Novotel is in the heart of the administrative zone. Opposite the Halle aux Grains, and is only 15 minutes by foot from the Château de Blois and Maison de la Magie, making it a perfect base for sightseeing.
Completely renovated in 2018, each room at the Novotel Blois Centre Val de Loire is modern and comfortable.

What our travellers say

The trip was so well organised – perfect from start to finish. Loved the wine tasting (added extra) and the combination of multi-activity canoeing and cycling. The Loire locals were helpful and friendly and the Chateau’s simply outstanding. Highlight was canoeing under Chateau Chenonceau – will remember this day for a long time to come.

A Valued Customer

Great service. Interesting trips.

Mr Hunt

Extremely well organised.

Mr Bateman

Headwater chooses amazing quirky places to stay which are always a pleasure to arrive at. The baggage transfers are very slick and reliable. Basically, we can totally trust Headwater and are able to just get on and enjoy our holiday.

Mrs Trogstad
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Positive impact

Carbon score for this trip

8.0

Kg CO₂e

per person, per night

Relative to other Headwater trips

We measure emissions from the parts of the holiday we organise — including accommodation, in-trip transport, meals and activities — and express them as CO₂e per person, per night. Our label doesn’t include your travel to and from the start of the trip. As a Certified B Corp, Headwater is committed to reducing this figure and to positively impacting local communities, the local environment and our staff. Learn more

From£1,159per person