TRIP NAME: TRIP CODE: TRIP DURATION: LOIRE VALLEY CYCLE LVC 8 DAYS GRADE: INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE 2 ACTIVITY: SELF GUIDED CYCLE ACCOMMODATION: 4 NIGHTS IN 3 STAR HOTELS AND 3 NIGHTS IN 2 STAR HOTELS DATE DETAILS: DAILY FROM 1 MAR TO 31 OCT highlights Cycling through the heart of the Loire Valley Exploring the many grand Chateaux Experiencing the market places and rural delights of the region Enjoying the culinary specialties Sampling some of the many excellent wines in local caves loire valley cycle 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 Blois standard accommodation: $1790 All prices are per person OPTIONS & SUPPLEMENTS Electric Bike Supplement: $130 Single Supplement - 2 star hotels: $410 Single Traveller Surcharge - 2 star hotels: $500 3-4 star hotels upgrade supplement: $580 Single Supplement - 3-4 star hotels: $740 Single Traveller Surcharge - 3-4 star hotels: $830 child under 12 sharing with 2 adults: $1400 child under 16 sharing with 2 adults: $1550 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 Paris Amboise Blois Chitenay Chenonceaux France the trip The Loire River was once the highway between the Atlantic and the heart of France. Its valley was known as the playground of kings a neighbourhood of impressive châteaux and vast fortune. Travelling by bicycle is a great way to experience this world famous Valley. While pedalling at a relaxed pace, you ll discover the best this region has to offer, keeping away from the main tourist route to explore the lesser known gems of the Loire. We take time to soak up the medieval charm of Blois and discover picturesque Amboise overlooked by its impressive fortified chateau. We cycle through countryside crisscrossed with vineyards, duck farms and orchards and the remnants of feudal hunting forests. Our route proves the Loire Valley lives up to its reputation as the garden of France 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Erin Williams 10/1/2015 4:30:20 PM Page 1
solo*. Please refer to the price options 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. IMPORTANT NOTES DN1 - There is a 6 day version of this itinerary. itinerary at a glance Day 1 Arrival in Blois Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 detailed itinerary DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 Cycle to Amboise (42km) loire valley cycle Round cycle through the vineyards of Montlouis and return to Ambois (31km) Cycle through the Cher Valley to Chenonceaux (14 or 55km) Pass through vineyards to Chitenay (40km) Round cycle to Russy Forest & Beauregard (16km) or to Beauregard & Sologne (42km) Cycle to Blois via the famous Château of Cheverny (50km) Trip concludes Blois Arrival in Blois On your arrival in Blois, make your way to the hotel. Depending on when you arrive, we recommend you take a walk around the town which is known for its light facades and blue roofs, its pedestrian streets gracefully preserving the flavour of lost centuries and its serene atmosphere. Also worth a visit is the Royal Chateau de Blois, the residence of several French kings, and a perfect example of the evolution of French architecture between the Middle Ages and 17th century. meals: D Cycle to Amboise (42km) The cycle route follows a quiet road through the forest and vineyards of the Mesland appellation until you reach the Chateau of Chaumont sur Loire that proudly overlooks the Loire River. It is worthwhile stopping here, and the grounds are usually open to the public. The Chateau itself is famous for its luxurious stables, and there is often free wine tasting at the base of the driveway. The cycle continues through the countryside, admiring some beautiful vineyards and past a duck farm, before arriving at the picturesque town of Amboise on the south bank of the Loire River, where you will stay overnight in a small hotel in the centre. Round cycle through the vineyards of Montlouis and return to Ambois (31km) As this evening will also be spent in Amboise, you have the option of cycling to the vineyards of Montlouis a full route description is provided and this is highly recommended if you would like to try some wines and experience the countryside further. During the cycle there is also an opportunity to visit the Aquarium de Touraine before returning via the forest to Amboise for further sightseeing. Alternatively (or in addition) you may stay in town and explore its many attractions, including a visit to Le Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci s last home where there are models of his many inventions in the garden and house. Also the fortified Chateau d Amboise is worth a look or taking a walk through the old town, and tasting the region s wines and delicacies (including foie gras) at the town collective. Friday and Sunday mornings are market day and this is the largest market in the region selling everything from culinary specialties to clothes, homewares and tourist gifts. Overnight Amboise. 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Erin Williams 10/1/2015 4:30:20 PM Page 2
DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7 DAY 8 Cycle through the Cher Valley to Chenonceaux (14 or 55km) The cycle route takes you to the famous Château de Chenonceau which straddles the Cher River in five distinctive arches. It was this chateau which was promised by King Henri II to his mistress Diane de Poitiers, but following his death the Queen, Catherine de Médici made her swap it for Chateau Chaumont. Overnight in the charming town of Chenonceaux, settled on the banks of the Cher river. There are two cycle routes to choose from: one is direct while the other takes you on a scenic route along the Cher River valley. Pass through vineyards to Chitenay (40km) You leave behind the Cher Valley and enter the Touraine area via the chateau of Gué Péan and the medieval chateau of Fougère sur Bièvre, a perfect example of traditional 15th Century architecture. Your night s accommodation is at a charming rural hotel with a lovely garden. Round cycle to Russy Forest & Beauregard (16km) or to Beauregard & Sologne (42km) There are two options for your cycle today, both of which include an option to visit the chateau of Beauregard, famous for its portrait gallery. The route is through the Forest of Russy on dedicated cycle paths. If you feel like extending your cycle you can continue to the mysterious Sologne a rural area known for its wildlife (wild boar and deer), and in summer, the heather is in bloom and the ponds are full of water lilies, making it a peaceful area to cycle through. There are dedicated bike tracks and opportunities to stop for a picnic lunch. Behind vineyards and groves you will catch glimpses of private chateaux. Return to the hotel in Chitenay in the evening for another excellent dinner. Cycle to Blois via the famous Château of Cheverny (50km) During this last stage of the cycle, you have the opportunity to discover the famous sumptuously furnished Château of Cheverny before reaching the prestigious Château de Chambord with its 440 rooms, built during the reign of Francis the 1st. We return to our original hotel in Blois. Trip concludes Blois Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. meals: B inclusions 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners (does not include drinks) breakfasts are continental style and consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner will consist of 3 to 4 courses which include some regional specialties 4 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels and 3 nights in 2 star hotels on a twinshare basis. All rooms have private facilities. Option to upgrade to 3 4 star hotels supplement applies. 21 speed mens or ladies bike equipped with two panniers, helmet, bike computer, map holder, anti theft device and repair kit (electric bike available on request supplement applies) Luggage transfer 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 Blois Lunch and drinks Items of a personal nature 2011 World Expeditions Travel Group - Erin Williams 10/1/2015 4:30:20 PM Page 3
Entrance fees Tour guide this is a self guided cycling trip Transfers Travel insurance mandatory getting there BY CAR PARKING & TRANSFERS BY TRAIN BY AIR Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: www.viamichelin. com There is a hotel carpark. Blois has regular services from points throughout France. If travelling from Paris take the train from Paris Austerlitz. For information & reservations you can contact France Rail, www.voyages sncf.com. From the train station it is a 5 to 10 minute taxi ride to the hotel. 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 to moderate INTRODUCTORY to MODERATE GRADE 2 Daily cycles are between 14 and 55kms on flat to undulating terrain. The cycling is on a combination of dedicated cycle paths and low traffic side roads. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. 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. 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. Page 4
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 hotels and joining instructions. On check in you will receive all the necessary documentation for your tour. This will include: Hotel Vouchers 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 combination of 2 3 star hotels (upgrade available to 3 4 star hotels supplement applies), generally small and family run with charming atmosphere that will make you feel at home. The hotels are mostly centrally located or just a short walk from town centres. Experience excellent local cuisine and wine, and in the evenings soak up the warm atmosphere of hotel amenities or walk to the nearby village centres. Page 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 20 25 degree Celsius and sometimes higher. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Cycle helmet (provided with your bike), wet weather gear, sunscreen, sandshoes and sun hat. (A comprehensive gear list is provided 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 www.utracks.com. 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 https://www.facebook.com/utracks https://www.instagram.com/utrackstravel/ https://twitter.com/utracks_travel Page 6
There s even more tips and ideas on our blog at http://www.utracks.com/discover loire valley 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 www.utracks.com. 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, www.utracks. 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 7
AUSTRALIA UTracks / World Expeditions Level 5, 71 York St Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02) 8270 8488 F: (02) 8270 8489 Toll free: 1300 303 368 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 www.worldexpeditions.com NEW ZEALAND World Expeditions Level 1, 59-67 High St Auckland CBD PO Box 106-275 Auckland City 1143 T: (09) 368 4161 F: (09) 368 4162 Toll Free: 0800 350 354 info@worldexpeditions.co.nz CANADA - OTTAWA World Expeditions 47 William St Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1N 6Z9 T: 613 241 2700 F: 613 2414189 Toll Free: 1-800-567-2216 info@worldexpeditions.com UNITED KINGDOM World Expeditions 1B Osiers Road Wandsworth London SW18 1NL T: 0845 241 7599 F: 020 8870 7014 T: 1800 946 258 (Ireland) info@utracks.com Page 8