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Photo by Eric Mangeat
Photo by Eric Mangeat
Photo by Eric Mangeat
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The Loire Valley, known as "France's Garden", is fast becoming France's
cycle path too. The region already offers over 300 kilometres of bike
trails as part of the "Pays Des Chateaux" programme, including 30
kilometres of road for cyclists only. Families can meander through
tranquil car-free routes, taking in the sights and sounds of chateau
country including Chambord, Cheverny and more…
In summer 2005 the "Loire à Vélo" project will reach another landmark,
with the completion of a further 150 kilometres of marked, dedicated
cycle trail between Tours and Angers, that takes in the stunning Château
de Villandry and Chinon Fortress . This part of the project runs through
the stunning UNESCO designated World Heritage Site that stretches
from Sully-sur-Loire to Chalonnes-sur-Loire, offering a ride through
natural and historical delights along the banks of the Loire.
The "Loire à Vélo" project, once complete, will form 800 kilometres
of trails from Cuffy in the Eastern part of the Loire Valley region
to St-Brévin-les-Pins on the Atlantic Coast.
A special "Loire à Vélo" handbook has been produced to mark the project,
and is an excellent companion for visiting families wishing to see
the Loire Valley on two wheels instead of the usual four. It allows
cyclists to select a route to suit, discovering lesser-known areas
of the Loire, chateaux, wildlife and culture.
A biking holiday in the Loire Valley is made complete with the
"Accueil Vélo" programme, allowing visitors to select from a brochure
of hotels, B&Bs and camping grounds that are equipped to store cycles,
prepare lunches and arrange for luggage to be sent ahead to their
next stop.
Loire Valley Travel offer a 6 nights/7 day cycle tour from Amboise
to Angers, pedalling through vineyards, along the Loire river and
by major sites including Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry, Saumur and Fontevraud.
Daily distances of approximately 20-38 miles, and prices per person
based on two sharing start at 640 Euros, including accommodation,
breakfast, dinner in a 2-star hotel, luggage transportation, maps,
routes, return tickets between Angers and Amboise and 21-speed bike
hire.
 Visit the Visa Loire website!
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