Loire Valley Cycling

After four weeks of exploring big European cities it felt spectacular to get out into the countryside and cycle through the Loire Valley in France! We did 250km in 6 days, and stopped along the route to enjoy the castles, gardens, food, and wine. We started in Blois and ended in Angers, and along the way stayed in Chenonceau, Tours, Chinon, Saumur, and Gennes.

It was a beautiful time of year to be in the Loire Valley. Everything was in bloom: roses, irises, poppies, peonies, and much more that I couldn’t identify.

14258485792_7ceef81d3d_z

14237577482_76d2bb7b20_z

14247174331_e6344c606c_z

14074181417_5826992ffc_z

14257435121_0354e6c78b_z

14260755875_94fa830298_z

DSC05503

The views along the roads and bike paths were serene and beautiful, even on the rainy days. Here’s a sample:

14073865147_aca457baaa_z

14280604973_e5cf4d18ef_z

14280602683_ed9007737f_z

14073789558_fb0f7796c2_z

14256966181_8fcfa0dab2_z

14258139202_5e12d9650a_z

14237154846_3e3400838d_z

14280438753_4036a85314_z

14074397847_5bcaf2c4a0_z

14257653411_032ee21af4_z (1)

14260585374_259ed59df8_z

14074335168_a95d248b50_z

Before this trip I’d done many long bike ride day trips, but never consecutively, back to back. This trip challenged me, and it felt amazing to ride so far each day. A hot bath and a mug of tea never have felt more amazing than they did after 60km in the rain. And the best part is eating whatever amazing French food you want at dinner, because you’ve completely earned it! We also had a super fun group and an amazing, motivating guide, which made the week great fun. I have a feeling that this is the start of me getting rather addicted to cycling trips.

IMG_6503 IMG_6505

IMG_6588

By Emily

Book-hoarding INFJ who likes to leave the Shire and go on adventures.

2 comments

what do you think?