Cycling in Touraine

The Loire à Vélo network offers 900 km of cycling paths, with over 300 km passing through Touraine on flat, signposted, car-free routes. France's premier destination for leisurely cycling.

The Loire à Vélo Network

Part of the EuroVelo 6 route that spans from the Atlantic to the Black Sea, the Loire à Vélo through Touraine offers some of Europe's most scenic and accessible cycling. The paths follow the Loire, Cher, and Indre rivers, connecting châteaux, vineyards, and villages on dedicated cycling infrastructure.

What makes Touraine exceptional for cycling is the terrain — almost entirely flat along the river valleys, with well-maintained surfaces, clear signposting every few kilometers, and a cycling-friendly culture where bikes are welcome at châteaux, restaurants, and accommodations.

Route Overview

Route Distance Difficulty Time Highlights
Tours → Amboise 27 km Easy 1.5-2.5 hrs Loire views, Montlouis vineyards
Tours → Villandry 18 km Easy 1-1.5 hrs Cher confluence, château gardens
Cher Valley Loop 35 km Moderate 2-3 hrs Chenonceau, forest paths
Indre Valley Trail 15-40 km Easy-Moderate 1-3 hrs Azay-le-Rideau, quiet countryside

Tours to Amboise

The classic Loire à Vélo route. Follow the south bank through vineyard country to the royal town of Amboise. Perfect for all ages.

🚴 27 km ⏱️ 2 hours 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family

Tours to Villandry

Short ride perfect for a half-day trip. Arrive at Villandry in time to explore the famous Renaissance gardens.

🚴 18 km ⏱️ 1 hour 🌿 Gardens

Cher Valley Loop

Cycle beneath Chenonceau's arches and through forest paths. A more intimate alternative to the main Loire route.

🚴 35 km ⏱️ 3 hours 🏰 Châteaux

Indre Valley Trail

Escape the crowds on this pastoral route through "slow Touraine." Pass through Balzac's Saché and basket-weaving villages.

🚴 15-40 km ⏱️ Variable 🌾 Rural

Cycling Routes Map

Gear and Bike Types

Which Bike?

The Loire à Vélo paths accommodate various bike types. Standard bikes work perfectly for the flat terrain, while e-bikes help cover longer distances or assist less confident cyclists. Most rental shops offer:

  • City/hybrid bikes (most popular)
  • E-bikes (great for longer routes)
  • Children's bikes (various sizes)
  • Tandems (fun for couples)
  • Cargo bikes (for families with small children)

Seasonal Considerations

Spring brings wildflowers but pack a light jacket for cool mornings. Summer offers long days but bring extra water — fountains are rare between towns. Autumn provides the most spectacular colors in the vineyards, while winter sees many bike rental shops close, though the paths remain accessible for those with their own bikes.

Combining Bikes with Trains

TER regional trains accept bikes free of charge (look for the bike symbol on carriages). This allows one-way rides — cycle out and train back. Popular combinations include riding to Amboise and returning by train (20 minutes) or cycling the Indre Valley from Azay-le-Rideau station.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rent bikes at the train station?

Yes, several bike rental shops are located within walking distance of Tours train station. Détours de Loire and Loire Vélo Nature both offer standard bikes, e-bikes, child seats, and trailers. Advance booking is recommended in summer.

Are the paths paved or gravel?

The Loire à Vélo paths in Touraine are a mix of paved tarmac (about 70%) and hard-packed gravel (30%). All are suitable for road bikes, hybrids, or touring bikes. The surface is well-maintained and signposted throughout.