You travel independently to Tours, the capital of the Touraine. Check-in at your hotel. The charming city of Tours is a perfect gateway to discover the region, known as 'the Garden of France'. 

Todays route first takes you along the south bank of the romantic Cher river to the picturesque village of Savonnières, known for its caves and underground lake. A few kilometers later you arrive at Villandry. Visit the palatial castle of the same name with its world-famous gardens and refined interior which gives a good impression of the French 'art de vivre' in the 18th century. After this visit you still have 13 km to ride, including a few hills, to your final destination, Azay-le-Rideau, on the river Indre, a tributary of the Loire. Where you can also visit the chateau.

Challenge : 41.1 km, 336 m ascent, 339 m descent

One of the most beautiful stages, through an area of unspoilt nature, where the Indre flows into the Loire. You ride first to the fairytale Château of Ussé, from the high river banks you have a beautiful view over the islands where different species of water birds live, then travelling west, you arrive in the beautiful village of Candes-St-Martin, labeled one of the most beautiful villages in France, where the Vienne and Loire meet. You finish your day in Montsoreau, also labeled one of the most beautiful villages. 

Challenge : 49.7 km, 438 m ascent, 408 m descent

You are now in the Anjou region, known for its good wines and impressive troglodyte houses. A wonderful, short route today with lots to see on the way. Choose the bike path close to the Loire or follow the higher, more strenuous route through the vineyards. Both end in the beautiful city of Saumur. Take the time to visit the equestrian town of Saumur, the home base of the prestigious riding academy the Cadre Noir where the elite of French horsemen are trained. Enjoy the beautiful houses with their white tuffeau stone facades in the town centre and admire the proud castle and the many other beautiful classified monuments. 

Challenge : 15.9 km, 230 m ascent, 238 m descent

Departure turning right along the south bank of the river. Admire the monuments built of local white tuffeau stone, such as the church of Cunault and the St-Maur abbey. Once in Saint-Mathurin-sur-Loire you have the choice to either take the train to your final destination Angers, or cycle 25 km extra to reach this city,  following the north bank of the Loire through a former marsh area that was drained in the Middle Ages, past traces of the old slate quarries of Trélazé. Then, taking a small ferry, you cross the Authion river. Faraway your destination Angers, situated on both sides of the river Maine, attracts your attention. 

Challenge : 58.5 km, 613 m ascent, 598 m descent

End of your trip after breakfast. We advise you to extend your stay in order to take the time to visit the beautiful city of Angers. You can travel back to Tours (or onwards to a different city) by train.