Loire Chateaux Biking, France ~ Butterfield and Robinson

Activity Level: E-M
Start / Finish: Montbazon / Angers

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?

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 Stop in at La Blanchière, the newly restored home of our own Karen Normandy, and have lunch in the shade of her wine house
Day 6 Relax in Saumur or take the Century Ride and lunch in the charming town of Brissac
Day 7 Breakfast in Saumur, then au revoir in Angers


		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.
		Château de Verrières This elegant 19thC residence, which opened as a hotel in 2003, is run by Thierry and Yolaine de Valbray-Auger. We are sure to feel at home here, as we are the only guests during our stay. Conveniently situated in the historic centre of Saumur, Verrières is a private mansion boasting its own gardens and swimming pool, and large, airy bedrooms with luxurious bathrooms.

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