The best cycling routes around Cheillé
4.5
(1194)
7,602
riders
236
rides
Touring cycling around Cheillé offers routes through the heart of the Loire Valley, characterized by lush green surroundings and riverine landscapes. The region features sections of the flat Loire à Vélo route, following the Loire, Vienne, and Indre rivers, with varied terrain including paved surfaces and hard-packed dirt or gravel. Extensive woodlands like the Chinon Forest provide diverse paths, while gentle hills such as the Puys du Chinonais offer elevation changes generally remaining below 200 meters.
Best touring cycling routes…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
4.6
(7)
35
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(128)
816
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.7
(91)
427
riders
44.0km
02:31
150m
150m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.7
(60)
368
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(28)
207
riders
45.4km
02:48
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
History in brief Antiquity: the site is strategically located on a promontory and has been inhabited for 3,000 years. It was not fortified until the end of the Roman Empire. Middle Ages: in 1154, the new King of England, Henry II Plantagenet, became ruler of an empire stretching from Scotland to the Pyrenees and made Chinon his continental capital. He had a large palace built next to the fortress, which has now disappeared. In 1189, abandoned by his sons, Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland, and fleeing from the King of France, he eventually died there. Philippe Auguste had the defensive Tour du Coudray built there after the siege of 1205. Renaissance: in 1454, the fortress became the main residence of Queen Marie d'Anjou, who lived there without her husband. She spent lavishly on decorating the house to her taste. From the 16th century onwards, the fortress was gradually abandoned and fell into disrepair. Despite the dangerous nature of the terrain, it became a public promenade in 1824 and was listed as a monument in 1840. The restoration of the estate began in 1854 thanks to the efforts of the writer Prosper Mérimée. Source: https://loirelovers.fr/en/visit-royal-fort-chinon/
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Tough calf biter. Here you know why there are gears on your bike.
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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.
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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/
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Situated on the banks of the Indre, from the bridge you have a beautiful view of the site and the beautiful 16th century mill.
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The origins of the castle Do you know the story of this castle that stands on a small island in the Indre? Built during the reign of Francis I by Gilles Berthelot, the king's financier, the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is a subtle combination of French traditions and innovative Italian decorations. It became an icon of the new architecture in the Loire Valley in the 16th century and is today considered one of the jewels of the architecture of the first French Renaissance. More information on https://www.azay-le-rideau.fr/decouvrir/histoire-du-chateau
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A small bridge over the river always invites you to slow down for a moment. Enjoy the current and life on and around the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Cheillé?
There are over 240 touring cycling routes around Cheillé, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Loire Valley. These include routes along the Loire, Vienne, and Indre rivers, with varying terrain from paved paths to hard-packed dirt.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Cheillé?
The terrain around Cheillé is diverse, featuring sections of the flat Loire à Vélo route, which follows the rivers. You'll encounter both paved surfaces and hard-packed dirt or gravel sections. The region also includes extensive woodlands like the Chinon Forest and gentle hills such as the Puys du Chinonais, with elevations generally remaining below 200 meters.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Cheillé area?
Yes, Cheillé offers many routes suitable for families, with over 100 easy touring cycling routes. The flat sections of the Loire à Vélo are particularly well-suited for family outings, providing a gentle ride through picturesque landscapes. For example, the route View of Ussé castle – View of Ussé Castle loop from Azay-le-Rideau is rated as easy and offers scenic views.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints I can see while cycling around Cheillé?
While cycling around Cheillé, you can experience the lush green surroundings of the Loire Valley. Highlights include views of the Loire River, especially from the View of the Loire from the Loire Cycle Path. You can also explore the extensive Chinon State Forest, known for its diverse wildlife, and the gentle hills of the Puys du Chinonais, which boast dry grasslands and wild orchids.
Can I cycle to any famous châteaux or historical sites from Cheillé?
Absolutely. Cheillé's location makes it convenient to cycle to many famous Loire Valley châteaux. Routes often provide views of or direct access to these historical sites. For instance, the View of Ussé castle – View of Candes-Saint-Martin loop from Rivarennes offers views of Ussé Castle, often referred to as 'Sleeping Beauty's castle'. Other nearby châteaux include Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry, Langeais, and L'Islette.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Cheillé?
The touring cycling routes in Cheillé are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1200 reviews. More than 8000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic river valleys and the opportunities to see historical landmarks.
Are there any long-distance cycling routes that pass through or near Cheillé?
Yes, Cheillé is well-integrated into major cycling networks. It's close to sections of the renowned 'Loire à Vélo' route, which is part of the EuroVelo 6. This extensive route follows the Loire, Vienne, and Indre rivers, offering long-distance touring opportunities. Local routes like the 'Indre by Bike' and 'Cher by Bike' also connect to it, providing access to quieter roads and charming villages.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Cheillé?
The Loire Valley generally enjoys a mild climate, making spring and autumn ideal for touring cycling. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful, whether with blooming flowers or vibrant autumn colors. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can be warmer.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Cheillé?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Cheillé are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is The Indre valley and the Loire — loop from Azay-le-Rideau via the EV6 and the Liaison de Chêne, which is a popular circular route exploring the Indre valley and sections of the EuroVelo 6.
Where can I find services for cyclists, such as bike storage or accommodation?
The broader Loire Valley region, including areas around Cheillé, offers services under the 'Accueil Vélo' (Cyclists Welcome) label. These accommodations and services are specifically designed to cater to cyclists, providing amenities like secure bike storage, repair kits, and information on local routes.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes in the Cheillé area?
While much of the Loire Valley is relatively flat, there are routes that offer more challenge. For instance, The Azay Mill – View of the Loire River loop from Rivarennes is rated as difficult, providing a more strenuous ride with varied terrain and views of the Loire River.
What other attractions can I visit besides cycling in the Cheillé region?
Beyond cycling, the Cheillé region offers a wealth of attractions. You can explore unique troglodyte dwellings in the Courtineau Valley, visit the Maurice Dufresne Museum, or discover the Petrified Caves. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking in the National Forest of Loches, birdwatching at Lake Rillé or Louroux Lake, or even swimming and canoeing at Chemillé Lake.
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