Self-guided cycling
3 nights,
single centre
Level: 1
Leisurely
Flights
available
6.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App
Live the chateau lifestyle during your stay in the Loire Valley! What could be more romantic than being prince or princess for a moment and staying in a chateau Hotel ?
The magnificent landscapes of the Loire Valley invite you to relax and escape. Let yourself be seduced by the magical atmosphere of the Loire chateaux and enjoy the excellent cuisine and wines of the region.
Exploring the chateaux of the Loire Valley is a real journey back in time, transporting you to the Middle Ages or the Renaissance and teaching you more about the history of France. Follow in the footsteps of the kings and queens of France by visiting the royal chateaux of Amboise and Chenonceau. Learn more about famous personalities such as Leonardo da Vinci at the Chateau du Clos-Luce. All these treasures, set in the picturesque landscape of the Loire Valley, have been classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
This is a gentle and unhurried cycling holiday through the heart of the great Loire Valley. You will ride through vineyards and forest going from chateau to chateau via quiet cycling routes or peaceful river path.
Read more about this holiday in our 'Unique Places to Stay' blog.
Arrive in the royal charming town of Amboise. Visit the flamboyant Royal Palace and the elegant Clos Luce, a C15 manor house where Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked for the last few years of his life. His workshops house 40 giant models of some of his most spectacular creations, the first plane, helicopter and tank, and the beautifully landscaped gardens bring life to his botanical drawings and geographical designs.
Alternatively cycle to wine village Montlouis, famous for their fine white wines and explore the troglodyte caves en route. Here you'll find wine tasting possibilities and the option to visit Chateau de la Bourdaisiere and its wonderful gardens. (33 km / 20.5 mi)
To perfectly end your day, enjoy a dinner in a local restaurant.
You stay at Manoir Saint Thomas.
Experience an unforgettable stay at a manor converted into a luxury hotel in Amboise! At the heart of the royal city, between the chateau and the Clos Lucé, Manoir Saint-Thomas is a heaven of peace. Here you will be within easy reach of the rest of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO world heritage site. Its quiet, old-time charm and sophistication, and its exceptional location in the old town centre of Amboise make this hotel a very special place to stay.
Gentle pedalling through the forest of Amboise will bring you to the superb Chateau de Chenonceau with its famous arches majestically spanning the river. Described by Flaubert as floating 'on air and water', it's arguably the most beautiful of all the Loire landmarks. This chateau was the scene of a famous rivalry in French history: that of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.
Enjoy a walk in the heart of the Diane de Poitiers's garden, then the Catherine de Medici's one. Take a breath, under the shadow of one of the huge park trees, at the rhythm of the river murmur which will tell you stories about these 2 rival women.
Leave for a while the Loire banks to reach the picturesque Vouvray vineyards, surrounded by troglodyte houses, and famous for its fine and elegant white wines! On the way you will admire superb Renaissance private châteaux such as château de Valmer (remarkable for its Italian and vegetable gardens), and the beautiful château de Jallanges as well. And don't hesitate to stop for a visit to a local wine producer to sample a glass of Vouvray wine!
Or alternatively enjoy a last ride.
Ride along the peaceful Loire river through quaint villages to Chaumont sur Loire overlooked by its imposing chateau. Enjoy a romantic stroll through the extraordinary gardens. The International Garden Festival at the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire is a must for art and garden fans. (45 km/ 28 mi)
If you'd like to extend your trip with extra hotel nights we recommend: Manoir Saint Thomas, Amboise.
Experience an unforgettable stay at a manor converted into a luxury hotel in Amboise! At the heart of the royal city, between the chateau and the Clos Lucé, Manoir Saint-Thomas is a heaven of peace. Here you will be within easy reach of the rest of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO world heritage site. Its quiet, old-time charm and sophistication, and its exceptional location in the old town centre of Amboise make this hotel a very special place to stay.
These tour only prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £355.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Paris airport, with onward rail included. We can also provide transfers from the station to your hotel, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment. *Unfortunately, due to the airline themselves we are unable to book Ryanair.
Self-guided cycling
3 nights,
single centre
Level: 1
Leisurely
Flights
available
6.0Kg CO2e
Navigation App