Last weekend we set off to explore the Loire Valley. A regal French landscape rich in history and architectural splendors. What better way to breath the royal air and discover the hidden treasures and grand Châteaux than by bike? Our journey began in Blois, a quick 2 hour TGV ride from Paris. A charming city to call home for a few days. With some of the best French food I have ever tasted. Not to mention how welcoming and friendly the people are. (Note to self: leave Paris more often!)
Our journey began beneath an overcast sky, over the bridge and into the colors of the countryside.
Occasionally we passed a small village with barely a soul in sight.
We continued on the path into the woods… almost 25 kilometers behind us.
And there it was, looming in the distance. One of the grandest structures of all.
The Châteaux de Chambord. This sight alone made the journey by bike worth it.
Here we stayed to explore the interior of this Franco-Italian masterpiece. In awe.
Needless to say (though my untrained muscles were in denial), the journey was only half complete.
We followed the Loire river back. Passing a private châteaux or two along the way.
The late afternoon sun provided strength for the remaining 10 kilometers.
Until the bridge was again in sight. Magnificent in it’s reflection.
A total of 45 kilometers later, we returned to Blois filled with the energy of accomplishment. Deserving of a feast and a glass or two of wine. And ready to plan the bike route for day two…
Click here to plan your own Loire by bike adventure. Enjoy the ride!
You did what I’ve been dreaming of doing since I was a kid! What a breathtaking way to explore the Loire!! (too bad the sky was ominous!)
Actually, the weather was ideal for biking as it wasn’t too hot. And so moody! Our second day of biking (after a day of rain and rest) was much sunnier with blue skies, altogether a different experience. You and Cedric would love it!
Looks beautiful, though I would like to hear more about the wine please 🙂
Drinking while biking, not the best idea 😉 We did try a few of the local wines with dinner, yummy.
Kasia,
what an adventure! I recall when you did the NYC bike tour – this one offers a much different landscape and scenery. Looks amazing !
Tracy
Hi Tracy! Biking in NYC, I remember it well! SUCH a different adventure!! You would love the Loire, come to France!!
this seems like a most wonderful way to spend a day. that castle took my breath away…gorgeous! looking forward to pictures from day 2 (and now i’m dreaming about my someday life in paris!)
More Loire adventures coming up in the weeks ahead… I too dreamed about living in Paris and look what happened. You never know 🙂
Nice pictural story. Love the flow of it.
Gorgeous, I’m so glad you enjoyed it. My brother bikes there all the time!
Wow what a gorgeous place for a bike ride!
So glad you enjoyed it, I had a great time in Le Loire as well, each and every time!
And now I understand well why you travel to the Loire so often! We have already planned another two trips… will consult your blog 🙂
WOW. Do you have a budding photography career?? Gorgeous photos. And what a great adventure. Je suis jalouse. 🙂
Thank you for helping me re-live my fond memories of Loire through your amazing beautiful
breathtaking photos. You are soooooooooooooooooooooooooooo bloody talented Kasia.
Thank you Lisa!! You are sooooo sweet! Very grateful for your love and support.
Lovely photos!
The first major trip my husband and I took together (long before we were married) was a bike trip from Angers to Orleans. I’ve forgotten the details of many other trips we’ve since taken but so much remains from that one! Other great places to bike in France include Ile de Re (but don’t go July-August) and Languedoc.
Taking note of that, thanks Anne! We always try to avoid the high season. Hope you will make it back to France soon…
Hi Kasia,
Rosalind here (the pregnant lady), I am one of your classmate when attending French lessson. If u see this email, do reply me if u hv the time.
regards
Ros
[…] Loire Valley is quickly becoming one of my most beloved areas of France. Ever since our first Loire by bike trip amidst the grand château earlier in the year. Last weekend we planned another Loire […]
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