Loire Chateaux Biking, France ~ Butterfield and Robinson

Activity Level: E-M
Start / Finish: Montbazon / St. Pierre des Corps

Your Very Own Moat

Bike paths don’t come much more picturesque than the Loire’s castle-lined routes. It’s long been the playground of kings and queens, and the small country roads are perfect for biking (and the food and wine are superb, too). Here, you’ll visit the tombs of Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine; explore the mysteries of the Wine Grower’s Brotherhood in Chinon’s Caves Painctes; discover the subtle differences between famed appellations; and settle in for a fantastic lunch in the shade of a newly-restored private home. We’ll also put you up at a trio of palatial châteaux, one of which is open just for us. How’s that for the royal treatment?

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Day 1 Get your first glimpse of the amazing Château Azay le Rideau on a warm-up ride along the gorgeous Indre River
Day 2 Ride past troglodyte villages and the church where Joan of Arc found the sword she used against the English at Orléans
Day 3 Cycle along the banks of the Vienne River through the Chinon vineyards
Day 4 Explore medieval Chinon, experience a private cooking demonstration and taste the region’s finest vintages
Day 5 Scenic ride along the banks of the Loire River toward the medieval town of Langeais for a lunch of Touraine delicacies
Day 6 Relax in Bourgeuil or take the Century Ride and lunch in the charming town of Brissac
Day 7 Breakfast in Bourgeuil, then au revoir in Angers

Please note that the 2012 version of this trip is different—download its unique itinerary for full details.


		Château de Brou, Noyant-de-Touraine We not only feel welcomed at the intimate Château de Brou, but very special when we’re there--especially since this immaculately restored 15thC castle seems straight out of a fairy tale. The château offers views over a private park and the Vallée de Courtineau.
		Château du Rivau, Lémeré Located in the heart of the Touraine region known as the “Garden of France,” this château isn’t actually a hotel at all—it’s a private home whose owners have graciously welcomed B&R as guests. Their 12-plus-year restoration campaign has returned the 15thC historical monument to its former glory, and its whimsical gardens complete the fairy-tale setting. By staying here, you join very illustrious company; Joan of Arc was a guest here in the 15th century.
		Manoir de Restigné, Bourgueil Outside the facade tells you 17th century, inside more 18th century. One thing is for sure this small residence is a great addition to the royal landscape of the Loire, yet still distinctly different. Its location, 5 km (3 mi.) from Bourgueil, allows us to partake in yet another legendary town while indulging in regal luxury. The lovingly restored and renovated buildings are worth a tour in themselves.

Need more details? Download a detailed copy of the itinerary of this trip, which includes a day-by-day breakdown, activity level descriptions and other helpful information.

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