How to Plan Your Chinon Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries With Picnic Lunch

Planning a trip to the beautiful town of Chinon in France? Why not join a guided wine cycling tour that will take you to visit some of the most spectacular wineries in Saumur while enjoying mouth-watering wine tastings? In this post, we will guide you through the process of planning your perfect guided tour.

Experience

This guided tour will take you on a 4-hour bicycle ride across Chinon and to the beautiful hill vineyards of the “appellation Saumur Champigny.” You will cycle through marvellous countryside flanked by vineyards as you make stops to visit some of the most beautiful Saumur wineries. The tour also includes a relaxing picnic lunch on the banks of the Loire river.

Highlights

• Guided cycling tour through wineries in Saumur
• Mouth-watering wine tastings
• Spectacular views of the Loire and Vienne rivers
• Visit the wonders of Saumur and its surroundings
• Relaxing picnic lunch by the Loire river.

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins in Chinon, where you will take the cycling path towards the Vienne’s river and leisurely cross the beautiful countryside for about 45 minutes. Once you reach Candes-Saint-Martin, you will stop to enjoy the panoramic view of the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers. You will also have the chance to visit the basilica of Saint-Martin and explore the beauty of the entire village before cycling to Montsoreau to visit its stunning castle overlooking the Loire river. From Montsoreau, you will cycle uphill to the hill vineyards of the “appellation Saumur Champigny” and make stops at some of the best wineries for a fantastic wine tasting experience. The wines produced here are made using the famous cabernet franc and chenin grapes, which are sure to excite your taste buds. After the first visits of these vineyards, you will have the chance to enjoy a nice lunch (picnic) on the banks of the Loire, a perfect time to relax and take some pictures. After lunch, you will cycle back to Chinon for an amazing tour of the troglodyte village of Turquant and Souzay-Champigny, and then back to the starting point in Chinon.

Booking

Booking this fantastic guided tour is easy. Simply click on this link to book the tour and get all the information you need to make your trip memorable.

Tour Inclusions

• Bicycle rental
• Helmet
• Guide
• Wine tastings
• Picnic lunch

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothes for cycling
• Comfortable shoes
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Camera

Book Your Tour Now

A Chinon Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries is the perfect way to explore some of the most beautiful vineyards in France. With knowledgeable guides and an excellent route, you will not be disappointed. Book your tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Discovering Chinon: A Complete FAQ Guide

Are you planning a trip to France and considering visiting the charming city of Chinon? With its rich history, stunning architecture, and fabulous wine, Chinon is a must-visit destination. However, you might have some questions about what to expect during your visit. This FAQ guide will answer all of your questions and provide some helpful tips to ensure you have a fantastic trip.

1. What is Chinon and Where is it Located?

Chinon is a small picturesque town located in the Loire Valley in western France. The town is situated on the banks of the Vienne River, which is one of the two rivers that flow through the area. Chinon is in the Indre-et-Loire department, which is part of the Centre-Val de Loire region. The town is located about 200 km southwest of Paris, making it an easy day trip from the capital.

2. What is the Best Time to Visit Chinon?

The best time to visit Chinon is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller. The peak tourist season is in the summer months of June, July, and August, when the weather is warm, and the days are long. However, this is also the busiest time, so expect crowds and higher prices. The winter months can be rainy and cold, but accommodation prices are lower.

3. What are the Top Things to do in Chinon?

Chinon has many attractions that are worth visiting, and here are some of the top things to do:

Visit the Chateau de Chinon:

Chateau de Chinon is a fortress that was built in the 10th century and was once the residence of Henry II of England. The castle is perched on a hill and offers stunning views of Chinon and the surrounding countryside.

Explore the Old Town:

The Old Town of Chinon is a must-visit. It is full of charming streets and alleys lined with medieval houses and shops. You can also find many cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops in this area.

Taste the Local Wines:

Chinon is famous for its red wine. While in town, visit one of the many wine shops and sample some of the delicious local wines.

Take a River Cruise:

You can take a boat tour along the Vienne River and enjoy the stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

4. How Do I Get to Chinon?

The easiest way to get to Chinon is by car. The town is located about 200 km southwest of Paris, and you can reach it in around two and a half hours by car. If you prefer not to drive, you can take a train from Paris to Tours, which is around 50 km from Chinon. From Tours, you can take a bus to Chinon. Alternatively, you could book a private transfer or a taxi from Tours to Chinon.

5. What are the Best Places to Stay in Chinon?

Chinon has many charming accommodations to choose from, and here are some of our top picks:

Hotel Diderot:

This is a beautiful restored 17th-century building that is located in the heart of Chinon. The hotel has comfortable and stylish rooms with modern amenities.

Hotel Saint Jacques:

This is a lovely hotel located in the centre of Chinon, and it offers comfortable and spacious rooms.

La Maison Rouge:

This is a beautiful bed and breakfast located in an 18th-century building. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, and the hosts are friendly and welcoming.

6. Where Should I Eat in Chinon?

Chinon has a variety of excellent restaurants, and here are some of our recommendations:

Le Chapeau Rouge:

This is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves innovative French cuisine. The restaurant is located in a beautiful building, and the service is impeccable.

L’Ardoise:

This is a cosy restaurant that serves delicious French cuisine made with local ingredients. They also have a great selection of local wines.

La Part des Anges:

This is a wine bar that serves excellent wines from the local region. You can also order light bites and cheese plates to go with your wine.

7. What Should I Pack for a Trip to Chinon?

When packing for Chinon, consider the time of year you are traveling. In general, it is a good idea to pack layers as the weather can change quickly. Bring comfortable walking shoes as there are many cobblestone streets to navigate. Sunscreen and a hat are also essential during the summer months. Don’t forget to pack a charger adapter as the electrical outlets in France are different from other countries.

Book Your Tour Now

Chinon is a beautiful and historic town in the Loire Valley that is worth a visit. Use this FAQ guide to plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to Chinon. Whether you are interested in history, wine, or just exploring charming streets, Chinon has something for everyone. Show the charm of this beautiful city to world by visiting it, exploring its fantastic history, food, vineyards, and everything it has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chinon – A Comprehensive Guide

Chinon, located in the Loire Valley of France, is a picturesque town that is famous for its historic castle and scenic views. The town is also known for its wineries and vineyards, making it a popular destination for wine lovers. If you are planning to visit Chinon, then here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in this charming town.

1. Visit the Chateau de Chinon

The Chateau de Chinon is a must-visit attraction in Chinon. It is a historic castle that dates back to the 10th century and was once the residence of Henry II, King of England. The castle is located on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding countryside. You can take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and explore its various rooms.

2. Explore the Old Town

Chinon’s Old Town is another must-visit attraction. It is a charming area that is dotted with historic buildings, quaint shops, and restaurants. You can take a leisurely stroll through the streets to admire the architecture, window shop, or stop for a drink or a bite to eat.

3. Visit the Maison de la Riviere

If you are interested in the environment and wildlife, then you must visit the Maison de la Riviere. It is an educational center that is dedicated to the conservation of the River Vienne and its surroundings. You can learn about the ecosystem of the river, the different species that live in and around it, and the challenges faced in preserving it.

4. Attend a Wine Tasting

Chinon is known for its wineries and vineyards, so it is highly recommended to attend a wine tasting session. You can visit one of the many wineries in the area to sample the local wines and learn about the winemaking process. Some wineries also offer guided tours of their vineyards, which can be a fun and educational experience.

5. Visit the Saint-Maurice Church

The Saint-Maurice Church is a beautiful Romanesque church that dates back to the 12th century. It is located in the Old Town of Chinon and is known for its stunning architectural features. You can visit the church to see the impressive frescoes that decorate its interior, as well as the magnificent stained glass windows.

6. Enjoy a River Cruise

A river cruise on the River Vienne is a great way to see Chinon from a different perspective. You can take a leisurely boat ride and admire the scenic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Some river cruises also offer wine tasting sessions and other onboard activities.

7. Walk or Cycle Along the Loire River

The Loire River is one of the longest rivers in France and is known for its scenic beauty. Chinon is located on the banks of the river, so you can take a leisurely walk or cycle along its banks to enjoy the breathtaking views. There are also several picnic spots along the river, where you can stop for a bite to eat and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

8. Visit the Cave Plouzeau

The Cave Plouzeau is a wine cellar that is located in Chinon’s Old Town. It is famous for its underground wine caves, which date back to the 12th century. You can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about the winemaking process, as well as sample some of the local wines.

9. Attend the Fete Medieval de Chinon

The Fete Medieval de Chinon is a medieval festival that takes place in the town every year. It is a fun and exciting event that celebrates Chinon’s medieval heritage. The festival features jousting, medieval music and dance, food and wine tasting, and more. If you happen to be in Chinon during the festival, then it is highly recommended to attend.

10. Visit the Musee d’Art et d’Histoire de Chinon

The Musee d’Art et d’Histoire de Chinon is a museum that is dedicated to the history and art of the town. It is housed in a 15th-century building and features a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts from different periods of Chinon’s history. You can visit the museum to learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage and admire some of its artistic treasures.

Book Your Tour Now

Chinon is a beautiful and historic town that offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists. From exploring the castle and the Old Town to attending a wine tasting and a medieval festival, there is something for everyone in Chinon. So, if you are planning a trip to France, then make sure to add Chinon to your itinerary and enjoy all that this charming town has to offer.