royal loire cycle explore europe your way

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1 A UTracks holiday is all about exploring Europe your way. It s about U + the walking tracks and cycling trails you want to discover. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has quickly become known as the leaders in active European holidays. Our itineraries are creative and very affordable. Set your own pace on a flexible self guided trip or enjoy the benefits of an experienced local guide on a guided tour. Together with our sister company Sherpa Expeditions, we offer over 400 active tours across the continent and it s many exotic islands. There s an active holiday idea everyone including families, culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, experienced alpine walkers or those that just want to see Europe differently. The physical demands range from introductory to challenging with all offering unique opportunities to discover the untrodden Europe, spanning postcard landscapes, centuries old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting culinary delights. Compare the price and you will see that we offer exceptional value active programs that are virtually all inclusive, giving you more time to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders you ve come to experience. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want. explore europe your way TRIP COST Joining Cheverny orchard room (a supplement applies for chateau rooms): $1450 All prices are per person OPTIONS & SUPPLEMENTS Electric Bike Supplement - extra day: $40 TRIP NAME: ROYAL LOIRE CYCLE TRIP CODE: RL5 TRIP DURATION: 5 DAYS GRADE: INTRODUCTORY 1 ACTIVITY: SELF GUIDED CYCLE ACCOMMODATION: 4 NIGHTS 4 STAR CHATEAU HOTEL DATE DETAILS: DAILY FROM 1 MAR TO 31 OCT Montrichard Blois Cheverny France Electric Bike Supplement: $60 supplement for standard room - Chateau: $220 Supplement for deluxe room - Orchard: $230 Supplement for deluxe room - Chateau: $450 Single Supplement in Orchard room - standard: $610 Single Supplement in Chateau - standard: $760 As the trip price is based on twinshare, a single supplement is payable if a single room is required or a single traveller supplement if you are travelling solo*. Please refer to the price options highlights Cycling through the heart of the Loire Valley Exploring the many grand Chateaux Experiencing the marketplaces and rural delights of the region Enjoying the culinary specialties and staying in a Chateau hotel Sampling some of the many excellent wines in local caves the trip Based in a chateau hotel in the small town of Cheverny you will be provided with a bike, maps and route notes to discover the surrounding forests, vineyards and medieval towns and the famous Chateaux of Cheverny and Chambord. In the evenings, soak up the warm atmosphere of the hotel and garden and sample the hotels excellent local cuisine and wine World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Baker 11/23/ :45:50 AM Page 1

2 for costs or ask our office for details. Note regarding single rooms The single supplement guarantees the privacy of your own room, however, rooms can at times be small and in some places may not enjoy the same facilities as double/twin rooms. *The single traveller surcharge is only available on trips deemed suitable for solo travellers. It is usually more expensive than the single supplement due to the extra cost for luggage transfers and organisation. itinerary at a glance Day 1 Arrival in Cheverny Days 2-4 Day 5 detailed itinerary DAY 1 DAYS 2-4 DAY 5 royal loire cycle Loire Valley cycle excursions of 47-52km and walking excursions of 12-13km Trip concludes in Cheverny Arrival in Cheverny Arrive in the small town of Cheverny, check-in is in the afternoon after 2pm and you will receive all the route instructions, sightseeing information and your bike at this time. Dinner is served in the main dining room. meals: D Loire Valley cycle excursions of 47-52km and walking excursions of 12-13km From your base in Cheverny there are a number of different cycle and walking excursions you can take to explore the surrounding region and chateaux. EXCURSION 1 Chambord: 51km - Cycle through Sologne visiting the Chateau of Villesavin before reaching the most famous and majestic château in the Loire Valley. In its Renaissance splendour, the Château de Chambord boasts no less than 440 rooms. EXCURSION 2 Blois town and chateau 47km: Cycle to the Loire river banks and the stately town of Blois, worth visiting for its old quarter and also its château offering a brilliant illustration of the evolution of French architecture from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. Return through the Russy Forest. EXCURSION 3 Chateau of Chaumont-sur-Loire 52km: Passing through the countryside you cycle to the Loire banks at Chaumont sur Loire where you can visit the picturesque chateau overlooking the river. An annual Garden Festival takes place in its majestic park from Jun-Sep featuring different interpretations of artistic garden composition based on a common theme. EXCURSION 4 - Walk in the Sologne Forest 12.3km: Walk in Sologne, an area known for hunting and fishing. On walking paths and small countryside routes, listen to the wind through the forest, learn about the local flowers and mushrooms, and rest by one of the numerous ponds. This walk will let you discover the treasures of Sologne s forest. EXCURSION 5 - Chateau of Troussay 12.5km: Walk to Chateau de Troussay, a Renaissance style chateau, and via the numerous vineyards of Cheverny appellation. You will have numerous possibilities to taste wine in local producers cellars. The vineyards produce fine, fresh and fruity white and red wines that perfectly express the typicality of their soils and landscapes. meals: B,D Trip concludes in Cheverny Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. meals: B inclusions 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners (does not include drinks) continental breakfasts are served and consist of yoghurt, croissants, breads, jams, cheese, sliced meats, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner is served in the main dining room and will consist of 3 to 4 courses which include regional specialties. There is an extensive wine cellar where you can choose a local or regional variety. Of the 4 dinners provided one will be a gastronomic menu, one will have a local cuisine focus and the final two will be a regular standard. Delicious, creatively prepared cuisine is a central part of this trip World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Baker 11/23/ :45:50 AM Page 2

3 4 nights accommodation in a 4 star chateau hotel on a twinshare basis. All rooms have private facilities. Price is based on an orchard room (standard) supplement applies for upgrade to a deluxe orchard room, or a standard or deluxe chateau room. Single supplement only available in standard room category. Standard rooms are configured with a double bed, deluxe rooms with a king size bed. 21 speed bike equipped with two panniers, helmet, anti theft device, bike computer, map holder and repair kit (electric bike available supplement applies) Information pack including route notes, maps and tourist information per room (GPS data files available on request) Emergency hotline items not included Travel to and from Cheverny Lunch and drinks Items of a personal nature Entrance fees Tour guide this is a self guided trip Transfers Travel insurance mandatory getting there BY CAR PARKING & TRANSFERS BY TRAIN BY AIR Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: com. From Paris take Motorway A10, Paris Bordeaux, Exit Blois, 170 km/ 106 miles, Major road RN 152, Paris Orléans Blois, 180 km/ 112 miles There is a hotel carpark. Blois has regular services from points throughout France. If travelling from Paris you take the train from Paris Austerlitz. For any information & reservations you can contact France Rail, sncf.com from the train station it is a 20 minute taxi ride to the hotel (18kms from Blois train station). Your closest international airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle. From the airport you can take a train (TGV) to Blois (one change). trip grading - introductory INTRODUCTORY GRADE 1 Daily cycles are between 47 and 52km on flat to undulating terrain. The cycling is on mainly dedicated cycle paths but some low traffic side roads are also used. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. The walking excursions are between 12 and 13km. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. It is considered suitable for beginners and children (children s bikes and trailers available on request). equipment provided You will receive a 21 speed ladies or men bike. A bike mechanic will adjust and fit your bike for you. You will either receive your bikes in the evening of Day 1 or the morning of Day 2. You will be provided with 2 panniers, anti theft device, map holder, bike computer, helmet and repair kit. The repair kit includes 2 tire levers, patches, glue, one inner tube and a pump. Please contact the bike mechanic should you require any further repairs or adjustment. Please advise your consultant of your height in centimetres. Electric bikes are available on request a supplement applies World Expeditions Travel Group - Kate Baker 11/23/ :45:50 AM Page 3

4 dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut free or allergen free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self administering these medications. a note on our self guided adventures Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. On self guided cycling tours it is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7day service hotline in the event of any problems. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travellers as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again. joining instructions On confirmation of your booking you will receive a pre departure kit. Three weeks prior to your departure from your home country you will receive details of the hotel in Cheverny or surrounding area and joining instructions. On check in you will receive all the necessary documentation for your tour. This will include: Hotel voucher Detailed itinerary for excursions and colour maps Tourist information about the area, cities and different sites you will be able to visit along your stages accommodation DURING TOUR The trip is based in a small chateau in Cheverny. The restaurant is particularly good and the family run atmosphere of the hotel will make you feel at home. The hotel grounds include an outdoor heated swimming pool. You can choose to stay in the outbuildings near the orchard or for a supplement, in the chateau itself. Page 4

5 the region The Loire Valley region technically does not exist, yet from a touristic perspective it appears in travel brochures and French guidebooks around the world, due to its classic French countryside and an abundance of Chateaux and quaint villages. The valley is now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site between Maine and Sully sur Loire on the Loire River. The grand Chateaux that dot the valley are a living reminder of the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment that swept through western Europe, whereby private and royal estates on a grand scale were built in the area. Many of the great Chateaux were destroyed and ransacked during the French Revolution and treasures were stolen, yet today more than 300 remain and many are open to the public. Their style ranges from castles of the 10th Century to the royal chateaux of the 15th Century. Although King Francois I returned the power base to Paris in the middle of the 16th Century, the Royals preferred to spend much of their time in the Loire Valley until King Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles in the 17th Century. To this day, the valley continues to be known as the playground of the kings, the garden of France and even the cradle of the French Language. Encompassing the official regions of Loiret, Loir et Cher, Indre et Loire and Maine et Loire, the valley is logically centred on the Loire River, Europe s last untamed river. The many interesting towns in the region are rich with art and history in addition to overflowing with gastronomical delights and fine wines. fast facts COUNTRIES VISITED VISAS France Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen visa countries list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements. CLIMATE The trip runs between March to October during the European spring, summer and autumn/fall. The months of June August are busy times with temperatures ranging between degree Celsius and sometimes higher. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Cycle helmet (included), wet weather gear, sunscreen, sandshoes and sun hat. (A comprehensive gear list is included in the pre departure information provided on booking). how to book To book a UTRACKS trip, complete our booking form which is found at the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office along with full payment by cheque or credit card (note: surcharges apply for credit card payments). UTRACKS / World Expeditions has access to pre and post accommodation and competitive airfares to Europe. Call your nearest UTRACKS /World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance & additional accommodation. follow us Page 5

6 There s even more tips and ideas on our blog at royal loire cycle slide shows UTracks invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or register on our website Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two! e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, com or contact our office. IMPORTANT NOTE THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITINERARY, AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE. talk to us If you require any further assistance regarding this trip or any other adventure, please contact your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office. Page 6

7 AUSTRALIA UTracks / World Expeditions Level 5, 71 York St Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02) F: (02) Toll free: info@utracks.com.au Feel free to visit our World Expeditions offices in:- Melbourne Perth Brisbane Adelaide (Thor Travel) Our staff will be happy to assist with your enquiries. For address and office phone numbers see our website at NEW ZEALAND World Expeditions Level 1, High St Auckland CBD PO Box Auckland City 1143 T: (09) F: (09) Toll Free: info@worldexpeditions.co.nz CANADA - OTTAWA World Expeditions 47 William St Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1N 6Z9 T: F: Toll Free: info@worldexpeditions.com UNITED KINGDOM World Expeditions 1B Osiers Road Wandsworth London SW18 1NL T: F: T: (Ireland) info@utracks.com Page 7