Hello
Looking for thoughts and suggestions. After Paris, heading to Loire Valley for some exploring and looking for suggestions for a home base. We don't want to rent a car and would prefer public transportation or even biking to see chateau's and will probably stay a week. We are on an extended vacation and planning as we go. We are aware of Schengen.
Thanks so much.
Posted by
Panguitch, Utah
2703 posts
Without a car, I would only consider staying in Tours, the transportation hub of the region. The only interesting area of Tours for tourists would be near Place Plumereau or Old Tours which is also near the University.
I typically do not recommend hotels without a suggested budget window but here are several hotel ideas:
Posted by
Rural Georgia
2195 posts
Your ability to explore the region without a car will be severely limited. As mentioned, Tours would be the choice without a car.
Posted by
8248 posts
We stayed in Blois and didn't have a car and visited Chateaux with no problem.
Posted by
Myrtle Beach, USA
12313 posts
I wouldn't suggest Tours without a car. I rode a bicycle through Tours (coming from Villandry going toward Amboise). I made the mistake of following my GPS in bike mode and it took me off the bike trail. The traffic is horrible.
I did like Amboise with a bike. I rode to Chenonceaux. There is a marked trail just west (downriver) of downtown Amboise. The first kilometer or two are up a pretty steep hill off the river. Once you get up the hill, however, the rest is a nice bike trail through forest and gentle grades. It's, if I recall correctly, 22-25 km each way.
In Amboise you can also see the Royal Amboise Chateau and Clos Luce by bike or foot. Clos Luce starts with the same rather steep uphill as you leave the river but it's not far.
Posted by
Greeley, co, usa
2588 posts
We have stayed twice with a bike in Onzain ( opposite Chaumont ).