Loire Valley Biking
Among the Grand Chateaux
Pedal through a lush forest. Emerge as if you're in a fairy tale. Standing proudly before you is a chateau of Gothic majesty. Its dramatic gardens sculpted so every plant, every stretch of grass, every tree has been planned, pruned and perfected. You're in an architect's dream. Artists and writers escape to the Loire - even Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years here. If you've dreamed of living like royalty, there's no place more ideal.
Request an itinerary here or reserve this trip now.
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• Ride quiet rural roads to visit French architectural landmarks
• Relax at gracious castle-hotels
• Michelin-starred cuisine and acclaimed Vouvray wines
• Renaissance, medieval and classical châteaux
• Experience fascinating French history where it actually unfolded
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Day 1
The royal treatment at gracious chateaux. Spinning past peaceful woodland and picture-perfect villages, you'll soon see why bicycling in the Loire Valley is such a delight. Visit beautiful Crissay-sur-Manse - the entire village is a protected monument historique - and indulge in a meal of fresh regional cuisine made by our friends Fabien and Katia.
• One night at the Chateau de Marcay. Turrets and secret passageways attest to the medieval origins of this Relais & Châteaux-member hotel with a sparkling pool, elegant rooms and exceptional dining.
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Days 2-3 montbazon
Renaissance, medieval and classical chateaux. Explore Chinon, known as much for its full-bodied red wines as for its turbulent history. Ride alongside vineyards and orchards to the Chateaux d'Ussé, d'Azay-le-Rideau and de Villandry, whose impressive Italian Renaissance gardens invite a stroll.
• Two nights at the Chateau d'Artigny. Grand from staircases to spa and outdoor heated swimming pool, this Small Luxury Hotels of the World member was once home to perfume magnate François Coty.
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Days 4-6
Experience French history where it actually unfolded. Travel back in time at the magical Chateau de Chenonceau, where a private guide shares stories amid its richly appointed salons, vast galleries and massive grounds. Exquisite cuisine and acclaimed Vouvray wines. Wander through Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last residence, and marvel at models and designs of some of his creations. Join a vintner for a private tour and degustation at the family's centuries-old wine cave In Amboise, grab an outdoor table and refuel with a café on Rue Nationale, a prime people-watching spot.
• Two nights at Les Choiseul. In a peaceful setting overlooking the Loire River, an elegant 18th-century manor house with delightful gardens, swimming pool and membership in Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
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Dates: Aug 4, 2011, Sep 4-9, 2011, Sep 11-16, 2011, Sep 18-23, 2011, Sep 25-30, 2011, Oct 2-7, 2011, Oct 9-14, 2011, Apr 29-May 4, May 6-11, May 13-18, May 20-25, May 27-Jun 1, Jun 3-8, Jun 10-15, Jun 17-22, Jun 24-29, Jul 1-6, Jul 8-13, Jul 15-20, Jul 22-27, Jul 29-Aug 3, Aug 5-10, Aug 12-17, Aug 19-24, Aug 26-31, Sep 2-7, Sep 9-14, Sep 23-28, Sep 30-Oct 5, Oct 7-12
Length: 6 days/5 nights
Level: 1 to 4
Cost: $4198 - $4398
Single Supplement: $700 - $940
(Please note: Prices are subject to change. Please view current pricing here.)
Meals: All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner.
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