Chinon: Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries with Picnic Lunch

Key Points

• Full-day Guided Bike Tour from Chinon to Saumur exploring vineyards and historic sites
• Includes e-bikes, shuttles, and a delicious picnic lunch by the Loire River
• Visit multiple wineries and enjoy tastings of local wines made from cabernet franc and chenin grapes
• Stops at notable points like Candes-Saint-Martin confluence, Montsoreau Castle, and Saumur’s panoramic castle view
• Underground wine tasting experience at Bouvet Ladubay’s sparkling winery with vintage bikes
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, creating an engaging and relaxed atmosphere

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Cycling Along the Loire River from Chinon

This tour begins with cycling from Chinon, following a scenic path along the Vienne river toward the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers at Candes-Saint-Martin. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes on a dedicated cycling route through lush countryside, offering a peaceful start to the adventure.

Once at Candes-Saint-Martin, travelers enjoy spectacular views of the rivers merging, a perfect spot for photos and taking in the natural beauty. The guide leads a visit to the basilica of Saint-Martin and explores the charm of the nearby village of Saint Martin, setting a picturesque tone for the day.

Next, the route continues to Montsoreau, famous for its castle that overhangs the Loire River. This stop provides a chance to admire the medieval architecture and snap photos of the castle’s striking silhouette. The cycling between these points is gentle, designed for a relaxed pace suitable for most fitness levels.

Cycling Through the Saumur Vineyards of Appellation Saumur Champigny

From Montsoreau, the route heads uphill into the vineyards of Saumur Champigny. These hilltop vineyards are known for producing cabernet franc and chenin grapes — two varieties that define the local wine scene.

Travelers make several stops at wineries, where they can tast local wines and learn about the winemaking process. The guide shares insights into the region’s wine heritage, making each tasting session both educational and enjoyable. The landscape here offers stunning views over the vineyards, making the experience visually rewarding.

The focus on wine tasting gives the tour a delightful flavor, with the opportunity to sample local varieties in authentic settings. The stops provide a good mix of guided explanations and free time to relax and savor the wines.

Picnic Lunch on the Banks of the Loire River

After exploring the vineyards, the tour pauses for a well-deserved picnic lunch along the Loire River banks. The lunch features fresh, local ingredients and a good variety of regional specialties, presented as a delicious picnic with scenic views.

This break offers a chance to unwind, enjoy the river scenery, and reflect on the morning’s highlights. The picnic is a highlight for many, providing local flavors in a tranquil setting, which enhances the relaxing nature of the day.

Following lunch, the cycling resumes through troglodyte villages like Turquant and Souzay-Champigny. These limestone cave dwellings add a unique touch to the landscape, showcasing historical cave homes carved into the cliffs. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past and geology.

Visiting Saumur’s Famous Castle with Panoramic Views

The journey continues to Saumur, home to a castle perched atop a hill offering spectacular panoramic views over the city and the Loire Valley. Visitors get a short stop here to take in the medieval fortress and learn about its history.

The Saumur castle sets the stage for the final part of the tour, which includes a shuttle to Bouvet Ladubay’s sparkling winery. The shuttle ride is approximately 10 minutes, leading to an underground wine experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Underground Wine Tasting at Bouvet Ladubay

At Bouvet Ladubay, the tour transforms into a vintage bike adventure inside underground galleries. Travelers put on headlamps and follow the guide through the cellars, discovering the caves where sparkling wines mature.

This underground visit adds a memorable dimension to the tour, combining wine tasting with a bit of adventure in the cool, historic cellars. Participants enjoy tasting Bouvet Ladubay’s sparkling wines, adding a celebratory note to the day.

Practical Logistics and Support

This tour is well-organized, starting from right in front of the “bar café” in Chinon. It includes shuttles, e-bikes, and an English-speaking guide with wine certifications.

Support is readily available via a support van, perfect for those who want to rest or shop for wines at the wineries. The total duration is about 10 hours, with a 40-minute shuttle returning to Chinon at the end.

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, thanks to the e-bikes and support vehicles. It offers a comfortable pace, blending cycling, wine tasting, and sightseeing seamlessly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of guided cycling through vineyards, historic sites, and wine tastings makes this tour appealing to those wanting a full immersive experience of the Loire Valley. The quality of the bikes, the knowledgeable guides, and the variety of stops are frequently praised in reviews.

The picnic lunch is consistently highlighted as a highlight for its quality and scenic setting. The underground wine experience at Bouvet Ladubay adds a special touch that many other tours don’t include.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves cycling on dedicated paths and some uphill sections in the vineyards, but the e-bikes help mitigate physical strain. Small groups and a support van provide flexibility, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Participants should be prepared for a full day of activity, but the pace is relaxed and well-paced, with plenty of breaks and opportunities to enjoy each stop thoroughly.

Pricing and Value for Money

At $374 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day of cycling, wine tasting, sightseeing, and a picnic. The inclusion of e-bikes, shuttles, and multiple winery visits makes it a solid value for those interested in an all-in-one Loire Valley experience.

While additional products from wineries are not included, the tastings and activities provided are quite extensive, ensuring a memorable day.

Why This Tour Is Perfect for Wine & Cycling Enthusiasts

This full-day experience is ideal for wine lovers who enjoy cycling and scenery. The knowledgeable guides and the variety of stops—from river confluences to castle views—create a diverse and engaging itinerary.

The combination of interactive wine tastings and cultural sights caters well to travelers who want a relaxed yet active day exploring the Loire region.

Summary of the Experience

The Chinon: Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries with Picnic Lunch offers a well-rounded immersion into the Loire Valley. From floating along river paths to sampling wines at renowned wineries and visiting historic sites, the day balances scenic beauty, cultural richness, and wine education.

Its organized logistics, including e-bikes and support vehicles, make it accessible and enjoyable. The delicious picnic lunch and underground wine tasting at Bouvet Ladubay** add special touches that elevate the experience.

This tour suits enthusiasts of cycling and wine looking for a full, engaging day in one of France’s most beautiful regions. While it demands a full day and some uphill riding, the relaxed pace and excellent guides ensure a rewarding adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the use of e-bikes and support van makes it accessible for most fitness levels, including those new to cycling.

How long is the cycling portion?
The cycling starts with about 45 minutes from Chinon to Candes-Saint-Martin, with additional riding through vineyards and villages for a full-day experience.

What does the picnic lunch include?
The picnic features fresh, local products and regional specialties by the Loire River, providing a satisfying break with scenic views.

Are wine tastings included?
Yes, the tour visits several wineries, offering wine tastings of local wines made from cabernet franc and chenin grapes.

What is the underground wine experience like?
Participants wear headlamps and follow guides through underground galleries at Bouvet Ladubay, sampling sparkling wines in a historic cellar setting.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start date.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby