Outdoors
Loire Valley Castles Bike Ride
You leave Blois along the Loire, then follow the Cosson inland to the Château de Chambord and ride through its 5,440-hectare forest estate. The loop comes back by the old river port of Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire and a riverside cycle path into Blois.
- Where
- Loire Valley, France
- Distance
- 43 km loop
- Difficulty
- Easy
The route
A day between Blois and Chambord (Loire à Vélo suggested loop).
Start in the centre of Blois, which you can reach by train or car. Accueil Vélo bike hire shops in the centre rent all-road bikes and e-bikes.
When to go
Chambord's park is open every day of the year, and the château keeps its longer hours (9 am to 6 pm) from 28 March to 25 October in 2026.
Permits and fees
No permit is needed. Entry to the Chambord estate park is free; the château costs €21 for EEA nationals or residents and €31 for other visitors in 2026, and under-18s go free.
Before you go
- Bike parking at Chambord is free, so you can lock up and tour the château.
- Most of the loop is on traffic-free green lanes, which makes it good for families.
- Look out for deer in the Chambord forest, and stop at the Maison de Loire in Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire.
- Back in Blois, the château puts on an evening sound-and-light show.
What to bring
- Helmet
- Spare tube, tyre levers and a pump
- Water and snacks
- Front and rear lights
- A layer for descents and stops
Getting ready for it
Time in the saddle matters more than speed.
If you have not ridden for a while, do two or three rides of an hour or two first so your legs and your seat are used to it.
Staying safe
- Wear bright clothing and use lights wherever there is traffic.
- Check your brakes and tyres before you leave.
Route details checked September 30, 2026 against loirebybike.co.uk and chambord.org. Rules and closures change, so check before you go.
