Day 1: Montargis
Our first hotel in Montargis is located in the city center. The old town on the water awaits us for a relaxing stroll to discover its medieval bridges and hidden corners bustling with life. For the early-birds we suggest to indulge in the famous Pralines Mazet, a XVI century recipe (at Place Mirabeau) or a visit to the ruins of the 10th century Castle. In the late afternoon a briefing with the presentation of the program followed by the bike fitting. Overnight in Montargis.
Day 2: Montargis – Château-Renard - loop tour ca. 45 km | 28 miles
An ancient royal residence, Montargis carefully preserves its splendid flower-decorated canals and the medieval quarter. On our Sunday ride we will cycle on quiet roads to Château-Renard, where it is possible to visit the ruins of the 10th century Castle, the house of Joan of Arc and the Living Museum of Apiculture, here you can see beekeepers and their bees at work, and you’ll be able to sample their delicious honey. Return along the L'Ouanne river to Montargis and overnight.
Day 3: Montargis – Ferrière-en-Gâtinais ca. 50 km | 31 miles
The route today meanders between the Canal de Briaire, the first man-made canal in France dating from the XVII century and the Loing River alongside the beautiful lake of Chalette-sur-Loing, where you can stop for a nice swim. A lush nature dotted with small lakes will accompany us to Ferrière-en-Gâtinais, a picturesque medieval jewel. Here we will visit the St Peter's Abbey, the adjacent Church Notre Dame de Bethlem (843 AD), and the fortified village. Our hotel is located just outside the hamlet.
Day 4: Ferrière-en-Gâtinais – Nemours ca. 40 km | 25 miles
From Ferrière-en-Gâtinais a gentle climbs takes us to Château-Landon, a fortified town delightfully situated on a fortress. From the Abbey of St. Severin (XIII century), splendidly overlooking the Fusain Valley, we can admire the landscape at 360 degrees. Cycling on pleasant country roads once beaten by Caesar's troops (52 BC) we reach the magnificent Forest of Nemours, where you can visit the Castle or the Museum of Prehistory. Overnight in Nemours.
Day 5: Nemours – Moret-sur-Loing ca. 45 km | 28 miles
A day characterized by pleasant fresh water baths along the Loing Valley, we encounter quaint medieval villages such as Larchant and Grez-sur-Loing and mysterious rock formations midst in the forest. The path takes us to Moret-sur-Loing, a charming fortified city strategically located on the river bank, where the painter Sisley found inspiration for his splendid paintings. Ancient water mills frame the waterfalls that flow into the bend of the river forming natural swimming pools. Overnight in Moret-sur-Loing.
Day 6: Moret-sur-Loing – Barbizon ca.25 km | 15 miles
Today we will cycle through the imposing forest of Fontainebleau. Our first goal will be the Royal Residence, preferred by the French Kings as a hunting ground because of the surrounding forests. In the castle you can visit the museum dedicated to Napoleon. Our journey continues towards Barbizon, still considered a village of artists. In fact, in the first half of the 19th century, Corot, Millet, Daubigny and Rousseau among other painters started the "Barbizon School" from which Van Gogh himself drew great inspiration. Overnight in Barbizon..
Day 7: Barbizon – Paris ca. 25 km | 15 miles
Today's route takes us along the Seine to Melun, a city known as "The domain of the White Queens" because in the past the widows of the French kings resided there. Here we will visit the village and the Island of Saint Étienne, on which the Church of Nôtre Dame stands. Our journey continues in the beating heart of Paris with a bicycle ride through the narrow streets of the historic center and along the lively quays of the Seine. Overnight in Paris.
Day 8: Paris
A farewell breakfast, then the tour is officially over.
All distances are approximate. Due to circumstances beyond control, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday.