The best cycling routes around Benais
4.5
(394)
2,427
riders
132
rides
Benais France cycling routes offer accessible terrain and scenic paths through the Indre-et-Loire department. The region features a mix of paved surfaces, vineyards, and proximity to the Loire River. Cyclists can navigate routes with varying elevation gains, from gentle rises to more sustained climbs, providing diverse experiences across the countryside.
Best touring cycling routes around Benais
- The most popular touring cycling route is Le Clos de Louy loop from Restigné, a 18.3 miles (29.4 km) trail that takes 1…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.0
(4)
12
riders
32.9km
01:58
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
8
riders
34.8km
02:22
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.0
(3)
6
riders
42.1km
02:28
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
48.3km
04:05
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
23.9km
01:27
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Château de Gizeux dates back to the Middle Ages and was remodeled over the centuries, particularly during the Renaissance and the 18th century. Located in the commune of Gizeux, within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, on the borders of the former province of Anjou, it is one of the Loire Valley châteaux. Its façades stretch over 250 meters, making it the longest château in the Angevin region of Touraine.
0
0
Wonderful … always a great destination
0
0
On this bridge over the La Vienne you have a nice view of the skyline of Candes-Saint-Martin. This cozy village is located near the confluence of the Vienne and the Loire.
4
0
This bridge connects over the Loire. Use it but leave it for those who come after you.
2
0
This impressive suspension bridge spans the Loire between La Chapelle-aux-Naux and Langeais and was originally completed in 1849. The bridge has been repaired and rebuilt many times and has a two-lane road over the Loire. On the Langeais side, a walk along the banks of the Loire, on both sides of the bridge, is highly recommended. The Langeais bridge is a stubborn bridge. It has been rebuilt five times! The story begins in 1848, the year in which King Louis Philippe authorised the construction of a "wire bridge", as it was then called (bridge 1). But wires are excellent lightning conductors! And 10 years after its opening in 1859, the bridge collapsed into the Loire after a heavy storm, its deck and suspension elements. Two years later in 1861, the bridge was repaired and operational again as a toll bridge (bridge 2). But shortly afterwards, in 1870, war broke out and the advance of the Prussian enemy had to be slowed down. Boom! Bridge was blown up (bridge 3) The fourth was completed in 1914, but then came the... car! They were heavy, they came and went! The bridge therefore had to be extensively rebuilt to bear the weight of modernity. This happened in the 1930s, and the opportunity was taken to decorate the bridge with its very special Gothic pillars, which reflected the Gothic style of the castle; the two form a mirror image. Bridge 4 was built! All is well, all is well... but then it is June 1940. And this time it is the Germans who have to be stopped. To stop the invader, the bridge was blown up again. After first using a ferry and then a temporary footbridge, the inhabitants waited until 1949 for a bridge over the Loire (bridge 5). The bridge of Langeais is the only bridge between Tours and Port Boulet. It is now a rather imposing bridge with a turbulent history.
2
0
The Château de Langeais , a former royal estate and property of the Institut de France, is one of the major sites in the Loire Valley . Near Tours , in the heart of the Loire Valley , it offers a guided tour of fifteen rooms, decorated with richly carved medieval furniture . You will discover a collection of tapestries and the reconstruction of the royal wedding of Anne of Brittany, told by Stéphane Bern . Langeais, a Renaissance Loire castle, will surprise you with its park planted with cedars and sequoias and its playful elements. More information on https://chateau-de-langeais.com/
2
0
No matter how small the community, heroes are never forgotten.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Benais?
Benais offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 130 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and challenging rides.
What is the typical terrain like for touring cycling in Benais?
The terrain around Benais is generally accessible, featuring mostly paved surfaces. Cyclists will encounter extensive vineyards and scenic paths, with some routes including unpaved segments for a more adventurous experience. Elevation gains vary, from gentle rises of under 500 feet to more sustained climbs of up to 1500 feet.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Benais?
The touring cycling routes in Benais are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 340 reviews. More than 1900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region, frequently praising the scenic vineyards and historic landmarks.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Benais?
Yes, Benais offers over 60 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Through the vineyard loop from Benais, an easy 23.6 km route that takes you through picturesque vineyards with minimal elevation gain.
Are there more challenging touring cycling routes in Benais?
For cyclists looking for a greater challenge, Benais has over 10 difficult routes. A moderate option with more significant elevation is the Gizeux Castle – Château de Gizeux loop from Benais, a 48.5 km ride with 440 meters of elevation gain, requiring good fitness.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Benais?
Absolutely. Many of the easy routes in Benais are suitable for families. These typically feature accessible terrain and lower elevation gains, allowing for enjoyable rides through vineyards and the countryside. The Through the vineyard loop from Benais is a great example of a family-friendly option.
What historical landmarks can I see along touring cycling routes in Benais?
Benais and its surroundings are rich in historical landmarks, particularly magnificent châteaux. Many routes pass by or near these sites. For instance, the Château de Langeais – Langeais Bridge loop from Restigné passes by historic châteaux. Other notable castles in the vicinity include Ussé Castle, Château de Gizeux, and Sleeping Beauty's Castle - Le Château d'Ussé.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Benais?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Benais are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Le Clos de Louy loop from Restigné and the Montsoreau Castle – Pont de Varennes-Montsoreau loop from Restigné, both providing scenic circular journeys.
What natural features can I expect to see while cycling in Benais?
Cyclists in Benais will frequently encounter extensive vineyards and panoramic views of the countryside. The iconic Loire River, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also nearby, offering picturesque riverside scenery. Additionally, the Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine is within reach, providing protected natural landscapes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Benais?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the region's accessible terrain and vineyards suggest that spring and autumn would offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for touring cycling. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer.
Are there any local interpretive trails in Benais that I can explore?
Within Benais itself, you can explore a 5-kilometer interpretive trail called 'La double vie du coteau' (the double life of the hillside). This educational walk takes about two hours, leading through forest edges, vineyards, and viewpoints, and passes by a conservatory of ancient plant species.
Can I find routes that offer views of the Loire River?
Yes, several routes in the Benais area offer views of the Loire River. For example, the Château de Langeais – Langeais Bridge loop from Restigné provides views of the Loire River, allowing cyclists to enjoy its picturesque scenery.
Most popular attractions around Benais
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
