Current as of: August 28, 2026 - 11:53
Multi Activity in the Loire Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
- Destination: France
- Programmes: Multi-Activity
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Activity Level:
1 out of 7 - Easy
- 6 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 12+
- Trip Code: M05LO
- Carbon Footprint: 8kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Experience a journey in the Valley of the Kings cycling, canoeing and walking where stunning scenery and rich history contribute to this region reputation as the most romantic destination.
Enjoy a ride on the Loire a Velo cycling route for a serene break in the heart of an exceptional cultural countryside. The area boasts scenic gardens (where the International Chaumont-sur-Loire Garden Festival is held), outstanding Loire chateaux, towns that are renowned for top art and history, charming villages and many other remarkable sites.
Paddle the majestic Loire river boarded by chateaux, vineyards and gardens. Peaceful waters, relaxing atmosphere and enchanting places at the heart of the nature make the perfect playground for Canoeing explorations.
Is This Trip for You?
This self-guided multi-activity holiday is ideal for independent travellers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, with the reassurance of pre-arranged accommodation and activities.
Activity Level: 1 (Easy)
For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Route & Terrain: When you’re not canoeing, you will explore the Loire a velo cycling routes (very well signposted), or walk between forest and vineyards. The canoeing is safe and undemanding, and we will give you a lesson in handling your canoe before you set off.
Helmets: Cycling helmets are a legal requirement in France for children under 12. Riders of all bicycles and e-bikes must wear a high-visibility vest when cycling outside built-up areas at night or in conditions of poor visibility.
Navigation: Navigation App
How Your Self-Guided Holiday Works
This self-guided trip is operated by our sister company, Headwater. You’ll travel independently using a Navigation App, which provides expertly curated routes and directions, along with a 24-hour emergency assistance number should you need support. As there is no tour leader or organised group, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to travel at your own pace while following the planned itinerary. Headwater are specialists in self-guided active holidays with more than 40 years of experience.
Adult min age: 12
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Blois
- End City: Tours
Land Only Itinerary
Arrival in Blois
Explore the cobbled streets, arcaded squares and impressive chateau of this pretty riverside town before dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Novotel
Blois - Amboise 29km cycling / 10 km canoeing
Cycle along the river on the ‘Loire a Velo’ cycling path and ride through tiny villages to Chaumont-sur-Loire and its spectacular chateau, which hosts the International Garden Festival (May-Oct). In the afternoon, change your point of view: paddle the amazing Loire river providing fantastic views (approximately 10km canoeing). Follow peacefully the river and discover the fauna and flora. Have a break on one of the wild island, before arriving at foot of the majestic Chateau of Amboise.
Accommodation: Hotel Bellevue
At Amboise (walking) (19km/11.8mi)
Amboise has a charming medieval feel, with historical links to the French Royal Family and also connections to Leonardo da Vinci who spent his last few years at Clos Luce, now a museum which houses displays of some of the artist’s original work. Da Vinci’s tomb is housed in the majestic Chateau d’Amboise which also hosts the impressive Son et Lumiere display. Amboise offers plenty of restaurants and cafes in which to relax and sample the local wines and produce. Alternatively, you can explore the vineyards of Amboise on a circular walk.
Accommodation: Hotel Bellevue
Amboise - Chenonceaux 21 km cycling / 4 km canoeing
Gentle pedalling through the vineyards will bring you to the superb Chateau de Chenonceau with its famous arches majestically spanning the river. Described as floating ‘on air and water’, it’s arguably the most beautiful of all the Loire landmarks.
Stroll along the banks of the Cher to discover the flora and fauna of the valley, and of course the Château de Chenonceau from a new angle, as you pass under the arches of this magnificent architectural masterpiece!
Accommodation: Hotel La Rosearaie
Chenonceaux - Tours (cycling) (37km/23.0mi or 45km/28.0mi)
Keep following the peaceful bike path between the river and beautiful mansions. Then reach another royal place the beautiful château de la Bourdaisière. Do not miss the unique vegetable gardens! Ride through the vineyards of Vouvray where numerous wine tasting opportunities are waiting for you. Taste the ‘Chenin’ great white wines then continue on the charming path along the Loire river banks that will lead you to the historical centre of Tours.
Accommodation: Artist Hotel
Leave Tours
Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trip Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotel Novotel, Blois (4-star)
Located 5-minutes from the historic town centre of Blois, the Hotel Novotel is in the heart of the administrative zone. Opposite the Halle aux Grains, and is only 15 minutes by foot from the Château de Blois and Maison de la Magie, making it a perfect base for sightseeing. Completely renovated in 2018, each room at the Novotel Blois Centre Val de Loire is modern and comfortable.
Hotel Bellevue, Amboise (3-star)
Situated in the centre of Amboise in the Centre region, this hotel is just 50 m from Château d’Amboise. It offers a terrace and a lounge bar and restaurant. Each of the soundproofed guest rooms at Hotel Bellevue is equipped with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. They also include a private bathroom with a shower or a bathtub. Breakfast including fresh fruit, bread and cakes is served in the spacious breakfast room or on the terrace on sunny mornings. Eggs, bacon and sausages are also provided. Drinks can be enjoyed in the hotel’s bar.
Hotel La Roseraie, Chenonceaux (3-star)
Ideally situated in the centre of Chenonceaux and just a 400m from the chateau, the Hotel La Roseraie, built in the 18th century offers comfortable rooms and a wonderful place to relax after a day walking or sightseeing with its garden and pool.
Artist Hotel, Tours (3-star)
The contemporary design of the hotel, with many references to the 7th Art, exudes a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. An artistic way of life, but with all the comfort, perfect to enjoy a relaxing city break: queen size beds, air conditioning, fitness room and a lounge bar. Each morning, a delicious breakfast buffet is served from 6.30 am to better meet the expectations of our business clientele or early bird.
Single supplement from USD 498
Food & Drink
All breakfasts are included on this holiday, with the rest of your meals free to explore the local area.
The Loire prides itself on it’s cuisine. It is refined country cooking, not heavy but rich in flavours and textures, drawing on the great garden of the Loire valley. Fruit and vegetables abound. Asparagus, artichokes, button mushrooms, cherries and strawberries from the Loire are transported to kitchens throughout France, which demonstrates the quality of the produce. These all provide delicious accompaniments to the duck, venison and wild boar dishes (all hunted locally) and served in sauces using wines from the local vineyards. Fish also features in abundance. With three wide, gently flowing rivers passing through the region, freshwater fish appear on most menus. ‘Sandre’ (pikeperch) and breme (bream) are especially popular and are usually served in a beurre blanc sauce – made with shallots, butter, dry white wine and vinegar. The majority of the cheese found in the region is goat’s cheese. We suggest trying Selles-sur-Cher from the neighbouring Blesois region. Desserts are often based on the fruit from the local orchards. They include ‘tarte tatin’, a yummy caramelised upside-down apple pie – the invention of two absent-minded sisters in their attempt to salvage a dessert they had dropped on the floor.
The Loire is undoubtedly one of Europe’s finest wine producing regions with many of the separate wine areas producing red, white, rose and sparkling wines. Distinctive whites include Sancerre, Pouilly-Fume, Vouvray and Muscadet; for reds, try Chinin, Bourgueil and Saumur. Anjou is by far the most popular rose.
Transport
Your luggage will be transported between hotels so you only need to carry your daily essentials. Your bags will be waiting at your next hotel when you arrive.
Weather & Seasonality
The Loire valley is blessed with fantastic weather for being outdoors. The spring and autumn seasons experience mild climates with temperatures averaging 16-20 degrees Celsius. The summers are generally warmer with temperatures reaching the high 20s. There is always the chance of rain so it is best to be prepared for this with a waterproof layer, it is also good to have a warmer layer for the early mornings and evenings.
What To Take
Practical Info & Visa
Visa
France
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter France. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/france
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/france
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html
Vaccinations and Health
France
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
France's time zone: Europe/Paris (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
France's electricity:
Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and E (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
France's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available, but we recommend taking some Euros cash with you in case you can’t get to a bank at the start of the trip.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
You will need money for lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks as well as any sites you wish to visit. Lunches can be inexpensive if you buy produce from local markets or shops and make up a picnic. However, if you stop at a café you can easily spend €15. We would recommend budgeting for €5-15 for lunches and allow an additional €10 a day for any extras. Dinners can cost between €15-40 depending on the type of restaurant you visit and would not include drinks.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.