Loire Valley - cycling around Fontevraud

You individually travel to Fontevraud. Check in at your hotel and have a stroll around the abbey (or buy tickets to visit) and through the town centre. 

Cycle at an easy pace through the woods and sunflower fields (when flowering) to the magnificent historic town of Chinon. Visit the fortress or enjoy life on a terrace by the banks of the majestic Vienne river. On the way back to the hotel you could also visit the museum of the famous French author François Rabelais.

Challenge: 42km / 26 mi, 216m ascent, 220m descent

Today you'll cycle to Saumur, with it's chateau that overlooks confluence of the Loire.The Château de Saumur has been listed as a "monument historique" by the French Ministry of Culture since 1862. The town of Saumur is very pleasant, with its imposing 17th century church of Notre Dame des Ardilliers and at Saint-Pierre square, you can admire its half-timbered houses. You can also visit a distillery in the center or try some wines from the region! From Saumur you get to choose: cycle back or take a boatride on the Loire river to Montsoreau. As of there it's only 4 km / 2,5 mi. back to the hotel.

Challenge: 37km / 23mi, 191m ascent, 205m descent

Today you'll cycle around in the countryside of the Anjou area (which is nowadays called the Mainee-et-Loire department), also known for the Chenin Blanc grapes. You will continue your way to Cadre Noir, which is thé center for equestrian fans ( the French military riding academy). The route continues through the idyllic valley of the Loire, back to your hotel.

Challenge: 49km / 30,5 mi, 246m ascent, 244m descent

If you haven't done so far, take some time in the morning to visit the world famous abbey of Fontevraud. In the afternoon you can cycle a relaxed tour in the area, through woods and picturesque villages and then come back to Fontevraud.

Challenge: 20km / 12,5 mi, 145m ascent, 146m descent

After breakfast end of the trip...or you extend your trip and book some extra nights?