From Saumur: Loire Valley Private 2-Day Wine Cycling Trip

If you’re dreaming of tasting some of France’s best wines while enjoying a scenic bike ride through lush vineyards and picturesque villages, the Loire Valley Private 2-Day Wine Cycling Trip from Saumur might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, based on the detailed info and glowing reviews, it promises an experience packed with beautiful views, engaging wine tastings, and a relaxed pace that’s perfect for travelers craving both adventure and a taste of local culture.

What really caught our eye are two things: first, how the tour combines cycling with wine tasting — a fantastic way to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed; second, the chance to interact with local winemakers and learn their secrets. That said, a key consideration is the price point—at $995 per person, it’s an investment, but one that seems justified given the included activities, guided support, and accommodations. This tour will suit those who love wine, enjoy cycling, and appreciate well-organized, immersive experiences.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: Ride along the Loire River and through iconic vineyards and villages.
• Wine and Food: Taste exceptional wines paired with excellent food, with visits to renowned wineries.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into winemaking and local history.
• Comfort and Convenience: Electric bikes, support van, and accommodations add ease to the journey.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore castles, abbeys, and charming towns like Chinon and Candes Saint Martin.
• Suitable for Adults: Not ideal for young children or those with mobility restrictions, but perfect for wine enthusiasts and active travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Loire Valley Bike & Wine Tour

This 2-day experience from Saumur offers a well-balanced mix of cycling, sightseeing, and wine tasting that’s designed to showcase the very best of the Loire Valley. From the moment you start in Chinon, about 20 km from Saumur, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush vineyards right away—an immediate promise of what’s to come. The landscape is truly stunning, with rolling hills, winding rivers, and picturesque villages setting the perfect backdrop for a leisurely bike ride.

Day 1: From Chinon’s Charm to Vineyard Serenity

The trip kicks off in the charming town of Chinon, an area famed for its wines and historic sites. The first part of the ride is 20 km, mostly along the Vienne River, where vineyards gradually appear. This part of the tour is ideal for those who want a gentle experience—electric bikes are included, making it accessible even if you’re not a regular cyclist.

One of the tour’s highlights is stopping at some of the famous local wineries for tastings, where guides share their knowledge about the wine-making process. We loved the way these visits feel genuine—no crowded tourist spots, just small, family-run wineries where you can really get a sense of tradition and craftsmanship.

Midway through the day, there’s a picnic lunch right in front of Chinon’s fortress, a setting that’s hard to beat. After lunch, the ride continues along the southern bank of the Vienne River, heading toward soils rich in cflint and clay, known for producing some of the best reds in the region. The wine tastings here focus on reds, particularly Cabernet Franc and other varietals that thrive in these conditions.

Later in the afternoon, the group heads toward the hotel, where a swimming pool awaits—an excellent way to unwind after a day on the bike. Dinner is served at the hotel’s restaurant, a relaxed meal that caps off the day nicely.

Day 2: Villages, Vineyards, and the Confluence of Rivers

The next morning starts with a hearty breakfast before setting out again. Today’s focus is on exploring the famous Saumur appellation, particularly Saumur Champigny, renowned for its elegant reds. The route includes riding through charming villages and along the Loire River, with stops at Candes Saint Martin and Montsoreau, notable for its medieval castle and basilica.

A highlight is reaching the hillside vineyards for panoramic views of the Loire River—the scenery here is truly spectacular, especially from the vantage point of the vineyards. After a picnic lunch, the ride continues through more vineyards, where you’ll have opportunities to taste Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc wines at select wineries.

The tour also takes you through troglodyte villages like Turquant and Souzay, adding a touch of unique history to the experience. The final stretch follows the Loire River back to Saumur, where the castle marks the end of an incredible journey.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The price of $995 per person covers most essentials: guided tour, electric bikes, helmets, lunches (picnic style), dinners, breakfast, accommodation, and winery visits with tastings. Support van service is a thoughtful addition, making the cycling less strenuous and allowing you to carry your wine purchases comfortably.

However, it’s worth noting that additional wine purchases at wineries are not included, nor are drinks at dinners outside of spirits. Also, the cost might seem high if you’re more budget-conscious, but considering the inclusions, the personalized experience, and the scenic value, many find it well worth the splurge.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience and Atmosphere

Feedback from past travelers highlights how much they appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the friendly, relaxed vibe of the group. One reviewer from the UK called it a “very pleasant guidance and a very familiar and nice vibe,” which suggests this isn’t just a tour but a warm, social experience.

The pace of the tour seems well-paced, balancing activity with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The inclusion of a support van means you don’t have to worry about fatigue or carrying heavy bags, which is especially helpful for those new to cycling or unsure about longer rides.

Practical Considerations and Suitability

This tour is designed for adults, and it’s not suitable for children under 7 or those over 70 or weighing more than 115 kg. The activity is rain or shine, so packing appropriate attire is a must. Comfortable cycling clothes and shoes are recommended, and since helmets are provided, there’s no need to bring your own.

The tour starts and ends in Saumur with pickup included, making logistics easier. It’s a private group, so you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience, and the flexible booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, which is a nice perk.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an immersive, scenic, and wine-focused experience in the Loire Valley, this 2-day cycling trip offers a stylish and relaxed way to see the region. The combination of beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and insider visits to local wineries makes it stand out. It’s perfect for wine lovers who enjoy a bit of activity and don’t mind spending a couple of days on the road.

While it’s a relatively high price point, the inclusions and quality of experience seem to justify it. Keep in mind that it’s best suited for adults who appreciate good wine, are comfortable on a bike, and enjoy exploring regions at a leisurely pace.

This trip looks like a fantastic way to experience the Loire Valley’s highlights in a personal, memorable way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the bikes are electric, which makes pedaling easier, and the route is well-paced with stops for wine tastings and sightseeing. It’s designed to be accessible for most adults.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 7 or travelers over 70. It’s oriented toward adults who enjoy cycling and wine.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guided tours, electric bikes, helmets, lunches (picnics), dinners, breakfasts, hotel accommodation, and visits to wineries with tastings. Support van transportation is also included.

Can I buy wine during the trip?
Yes, you can purchase wine at wineries, but these purchases are not included in the price.

What should I wear?
Comfortable cycling clothes and shoes are recommended. Be prepared for weather conditions, as the tour goes rain or shine.

Is transportation provided to and from Saumur?
Yes, pickup at your hotel in Saumur is included, and the tour concludes there as well.

How many people will be in my group?
It’s a private group, so the experience is tailored to your party, ensuring a more personalized atmosphere.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your plans.

Is this experience good for wine enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The tour includes visits to renowned wineries with the chance to learn from local wine makers and taste a variety of regional wines.

If you’re considering a trip to the Loire Valley and want a blend of cycling, culture, and wine, this private tour from Saumur seems like a lovely way to soak it all in. It balances activity with relaxation and offers authentic, insider access to the region’s best wines and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: