Loire Valley Amboise cellar tasting by bike

Dreaming of exploring the Touraine-Amboise vineyards and wine cellars by bike, at your own pace, freely, without a car? Clos Allegria, your lodge nestled in Amboise, now offers a bike rental service, electric or classic, for a unique sensory journey through troglodytic cellars, rolling landscapes, and renowned wine estates. Whether you’re a wine lover, curious cyclist, or a fan of peaceful rides, this experience opens the door to a vibrant and generous terroir.

🚴 Why choose bike rental at Clos Allegria?

A turnkey service

Valérie and Didier, hosts of Clos Allegria Amboise, Loire Valley Castles, designed this service for travelers seeking local and eco-friendly experiences. Bikes are available by the day or for the full stay, delivered directly to the lodge, with helmet, lock, and suggested itineraries.

Total freedom to explore

With the bike rental, easily reach the best spots in Amboise and its surroundings without the hassle of parking or summer traffic. The Loire à Vélo cycle paths are right nearby.

🍇 On the road through the Touraine-Amboise vineyards

A distinctive AOC

The Touraine-Amboise vineyards stretch along the Loire hillsides. This appellation d’origine contrôlée offers elegant and fruity wines—red, white, and rosé—made from grape varieties such as Côt, Gamay, and Chenin.

Estates to visit by bike

Here are a few wineries accessible by bike from Clos Allegria:

• Domaine Dutertre (2.5 km): tastings in a troglodytic cellar, family-friendly, organic wines.

• Domaine des Bessons (5 km): guided tours and views over the valley.

• Frissant in Mosnes (14 km): modern wines, youthful and passionate vibe.

• Caves Plou & Fils in Chargé (6 km): historic estate with panoramic terrace.

🕳️ Troglodytic cellars: a unique bike exploration

Touraine is full of cellars dug into tuffeau stone, remnants of a fascinating geological past. By bike, you can easily reach:

• Caves Ambacia: tastings, sensory wine museum.

• Maison Veuve Amiot: impressive architecture and sparkling wines from Touraine.

• Montdomaine cellars: organic wines and exceptional culture in Nazelles.

These places tell the story of stone, wine, and the people who shaped them.

🍷 Tastings and top spots along the way

Here are a few addresses combining terroir, passion, and conviviality:

• La Table du Roy in Amboise: wine pairings with local cuisine.

• Chez Bruno: expert wine shop with personalized advice.

• Le 36 (restaurant at Manoir Les Minimes): fine dining and a Loire-focused wine list.

• Amboise Market (Sunday morning): local producers, on-site tastings.

🔁 Recommended routes from Clos Allegria

Ride #1: Amboise Troglos (10 km round-trip)

• Clos Allegria > Caves Ambacia > Château d’Amboise > return via the Loire banks.

Ride #2: The Wine Route (25 km round-trip)

• Clos Allegria > Domaine Frissant > Mosnes > return via the hillsides.

Ride #3: Wine-Nature Loop (30 km)

• Clos Allegria > Nazelles > Montdomaine > Chargé > Plou & Fils > return through Amboise forest.

🔗 Why is Clos Allegria the perfect starting point?

Located on the edge of the Amboise forest, Clos Allegria gives you direct access to diverse routes, through heritage, vineyards, villages, and rivers. You’ll enjoy:

• Comfortable lodging for 2 to 7 guests

• A 2000 m² garden to relax in after your ride

• Tailored services, like in-home massages or itinerary tips

👉 Discover our dedicated activity page

FAQ – Bike rental and wine tourism in Touraine

1. Can I book the bikes in advance?
Yes, we recommend booking them along with your stay.

2. Are the bikes suitable for children?
Children’s bikes or baby seats are available upon request.

3. What is the rental price?
From €20/day for regular bikes and €35/day for electric ones.

4. Can we visit a winery without a reservation?
Some wineries allow it, but booking ahead is best, especially in summer.

5. Are the roads safe for cyclists?
Yes, the area has many marked and low-traffic cycling routes.

6. Can we combine a château visit with wine tasting?
Absolutely — for example, after visiting Château d’Amboise, head to the Caves Ambacia.

7. Are tastings free?
Often yes, but some wineries offer paid options with guided tours.

8. Is there a guide for the cycling routes?
Yes, you’ll receive a detailed map on arrival with personalized tips.

9. Can we buy wine and carry it back by bike?
Yes, we provide panniers or baskets to safely transport your bottles.

10. What to do in case of rain?
Indoor activities are available (museums, castles, troglodytic cellar tours).

📞 Need personalized advice?