Riding along the Loire has had all the best bits of cycle touring, perfect picnic spots, trails through the vineyards and beautiful chateaux. The weather has stayed sunny for us and it has felt like a really good end to the trip, a chance for us to enjoy the summer and get ready for going home, which is both a very exciting thought and also a little scary!

Wild flowers along the Loire.

 Bicycle graffiti along the route, this is a very popular ride for cycle tourers and for day-trippers. With great roads, either quiet secondary  or cycle paths, making very pleasant riding.

There is always a chance for some off-road as well….

With some great swimming spots!

The fairytale Chateau at Ussé.

 

Good when you going down, not so fun to ride up!

Waterlilys in the gardens at Chaumont.

Saumur.

Our only problem along the Loire, after over 10 000 miles this tyre had enough, and made an impressive bang when it burst! Luckily we weren’t flying down the hill!

A side trip from the Loire to La Vienne at Chinon.

We didn’t make to the vineyards of South America this time but we are definitley in wine-growing country here. 

One more chateau picture! They are just too picturesque. Chaumont sur Loire.

Inside the Chateau at Chenonceux.

Lovely copper pots in the kitchen…

 ..and a selection of knives not needed by a vegetarian! 

We are now taking a lovely few weeks off in the Cave (Lorely’s mum’s troglodyte home) in Luynes.

 Helping out with a few summer time jobs.

Happy painting windows!

The Loire.