Chinon: Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries with Picnic Lunch

Chinon: Bicycle Tour of Saumur Wineries with Picnic Lunch — A Balanced, Authentic, and Fun Day Out

Imagine pedaling through the gentle hills of the Loire Valley, with vineyards on one side and historic villages on the other. This guided cycling tour, offered by Le Vélo de Dionysos, takes you from the charming town of Chinon to the legendary city of Saumur, exploring some of the region’s best wines, stunning scenery, and hidden gems along the way. At $374 per person for a full day, it’s a well-rounded experience that combines active sightseeing with indulgent wine tasting and hearty local food.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances the physical activity of cycling with the leisure of tasting exquisite wines and soaking in scenic views. First, the well-maintained e-bikes make pedaling through rolling vineyards and along river paths a breeze, even if you’re not an experienced cyclist. Second, the stops at fascinating wineries where experts share insights into the local Cabernet Franc and Chenin grapes elevate the tasting experience beyond just sipping wine. A third highlight is the picnic lunch by the Loire River — a delicious assortment of fresh, local products that feels just right after a morning of riding.

One thing to consider is the tour’s pace and duration. With a full day packed with visits, tastings, and cycling, it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of effort balanced with relaxation. Also, the price covers quality bikes, guides, transportation, and site visits, making it a good value for a comprehensive Loire Valley adventure. If you’re after a genuine, guided experience that combines cycling, wine, and scenic beauty, this tour hits many marks.

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, active travelers, and anyone wanting to see the Loire beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find the guides friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing the region’s treasures.

Key Points

• Authentic regional experience: Combines cycling, wine tasting, and sightseeing.
• Well-organized logistics: Shuttles, e-bikes, and support van ensure comfort.
• Scenic route: Ride along river paths, through picturesque villages, and across vineyards.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the Loire.
• Tastings at renowned wineries: Learn about local grape varieties and wine-making.
• Balancing activity and relaxation: Plenty of stops for enjoying the scenery and tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Loire Valley on Two Wheels

This tour is a delightful way to explore the Loire Valley’s scenic beauty and world-famous wines without the hassle of planning every stop yourself. It’s a full-day experience, starting in Chinon, where you meet your guide right in front of the local café — a casual, friendly spot to begin your adventure. From there, your journey takes you along the river toward Candes-Saint-Martin, offering your first taste of the area’s incredible scenery. The panoramic views at the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers truly are a highlight, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the region’s natural beauty.

The tour then continues through Montsoreau, home to a striking castle that looks as if it’s been plucked from a storybook. Cycling uphill through the hill vineyards of Saumur Champigny is a true highlight, especially as you pass through vineyard rows with some of the best Cabernet Franc and Chenin grapes grown here. Your guides carefully select wineries known for their quality and interesting stories, making each tasting both enjoyable and educational. As one reviewer notes, “The cave à vin personnel were welcoming, interesting and happy to share the history and specialties of their vineyards and vines,” making these stops authentic and engaging.

What You’ll See and Do

Morning Cycle & Scenic Stops
The ride begins with a 45-minute cycle along river paths and through countryside. The route is designed to be manageable, even for those who aren’t seasoned cyclists, thanks to the provided e-bikes. The journey is punctuated with photo-worthy moments, including views of the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers and the charming village of Saint Martin with its beautiful basilica.

Vineyard Visits & Wine Tastings
After reaching the vineyards of Saumur Champigny, you’ll visit several wineries. Expect to learn about the region’s signature grapes and enjoy tastings of wines that showcase the area’s unique terroir. Reviews repeatedly praise the superb wine selection and the knowledgeable guides who share stories behind each vineyard and wine. One guest summed it up: “The choice of wine tastings was superb as well,” emphasizing the high quality and variety.

Picnic Lunch
Midday, you’ll enjoy a delicious picnic on the banks of the Loire, featuring fresh, local ingredients. This break allows you to relax and savor your surroundings, perfectly complementing the morning’s active cycling and tastings. The picnic’s quality and variety are often highlighted by previous guests, who describe it as “absolutely delicious” and “very fresh, excellent variety.”

Afternoon Exploration & Saumur
Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to the troglodyte villages of Turquant and Souzay-Champigny, where limestone caves and underground dwellings tell stories of ancient habitation. These sites are a delightful surprise for many travelers, adding an element of curiosity and history to the day.

Final Highlights – Saumur & Sparkling Wine
The trip culminates with a visit to Saumur’s famous castle, perched above the city with sweeping views over the Loire. Afterward, a short shuttle transports you to Bouvet Ladubay’s sparkling winery, where you’ll explore underground galleries in vintage bikes adorned with headlamps. This underground adventure is often cited as a “fantastic experience,” giving you a behind-the-scenes look at traditional sparkling wine production.

Return Journey
The day wraps up with a 40-minute shuttle back to Chinon, giving you time to reflect on the day’s adventures, share photos, and perhaps plan your next trip to this wonderful region.

Practical Details: What This Tour Means for You

Transportation & Equipment
All logistical details are well taken care of, including shuttles, support van, and high-quality e-bikes. The support van is a handy backup if you’re tired or want to buy wine without cycling back with bottles. The bikes are described as easy to use, making this tour accessible to most levels of fitness.

Guides & Language
With guides speaking French, English, and Spanish, you’ll likely find someone who can help you understand the region’s wine and culture. Reviewers consistently praise guides for their knowledge and hospitality, making the experience both informative and friendly.

Price & Value
At $374, the tour offers a comprehensive day of activity, tastings, and memorable scenery. Given all the included elements — the guided visits, tastings, picnic lunch, bikes, and transport — many find it a good value, especially considering the personalized storytelling and small group atmosphere.

What’s Not Included
Any wine or souvenirs you purchase at wineries are extra — a good reminder to bring some cash or a card if you want to take home a bottle or two.

Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural indulgence. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, it’s also suitable for those wanting a guided, hassle-free way to see the Loire’s highlights. If you’re traveling with family or a group with varying interests, the balance of cycling, sightseeing, and tasting should appeal to many.

The Sum Up

This guided cycling tour from Chinon to Saumur offers a rare blend of scenic beauty, authentic wine tasting, and engaging local culture. It’s a well-organized way to explore the Loire Valley without the stress of planning every detail. The combination of e-bikes, friendly guides, and thoughtfully curated stops makes it accessible for most travelers, whether you’re a casual cyclist or a seasoned explorer.

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s vineyards, a collection of stunning photos, and a full belly of delicious food and wine. The underground sparkling wine experience in Saumur adds a memorable twist for those keen on something a little different. It’s especially suited for those who love immersive experiences, quality local wines, and beautiful countryside.

If you’re seeking a day that’s active, educational, and indulgent all at once, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared to enjoy a full day of scenic cycling, tasty tastings, and plenty of memorable moments in one of France’s most enchanting regions.

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FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, thanks to the e-bikes provided, this tour is manageable for most fitness levels. The route is designed to be accessible, and guides are happy to assist.

How long is the cycling portion?
The cycling begins with a ride of about 45 minutes along river and countryside paths, with plenty of stops along the way.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers shuttles, e-bikes, guides, wine tastings, visits to wineries, picnic lunch, and support van.

Can I buy wine at the wineries?
Yes, wine is available for purchase, but it’s not included in the tour price. Remember to bring some extra cash or a card.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically starting around 10:30 am and returning by 5:30 pm.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak French, English, and Spanish, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Is there any possibility of riding without cycling?
Yes, the support van allows those who are tired or prefer not to cycle to catch a ride or meet at stops.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a camera, and some cash for any optional purchases.

Do I need a vaccination pass?
A vaccination pass may be required for winery visits, so check local regulations closer to your trip.

In sum, this Chinon to Saumur bicycle and wine tour offers a rewarding mix of activity and relaxation, immersing you in the Loire Valley’s beauty and flavors. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, a casual cyclist or an active enthusiast, this experience provides a taste of what makes this region so special.

You can check availability for your dates here: