Cycling tour
Equipments
Regular bikes, helmets and water bootle, are provided for free at the front desk. If you prefer electric bikes, they can be rented at 45€/pers/day. Please advise us for any bikes as soon as possible so that we can make sure one is available for you
Discover the Châteaux of Cheverny and Villesavin Amidst AOC Vineyards and Forests.
Deeply rooted in the spirit of Sologne’s wetlands, yet already in the heart of the Loire Valley châteaux, this bike ride accessible to all offers a journey through brick and tuffeau stone architecture, vineyards, and forests.
You will be constantly amazed by the historical and cultural richness of this route. From the Arian Bridges, supposedly from the Roman era, in Tour-en-Sologne, to Château de Villesavin, built during the reign of Francis I by Jean Le Breton, governor of Chambord’s construction.
The journey begins at Les Hayes estate and halfway through, a stop is highly recommended at the magnificent Château de Cheverny—the very inspiration for Hergé’s Marlinspike Hall (Moulinsart), home of Captain Haddock and Tintin.
The route continues towards Cour-Cheverny, passing vast plains and vineyards, notably the Domaine des Huards.
On the way back, you will pass Château de la Sistière, where the famous Chambord liqueur is produced.
A Journey Through Strawberry Fields, Hunting Grounds, and Vineyards
Starting at Les Hayes, you will quickly ride through Fontaines-en-Sologne, a charming old village with a large church at its center, before reaching vast strawberry fields in La Gaucherie.
As you silently pedal through the Cheverny forest, you might spot a deer or a majestic stag—the true rulers of these woods. Listen carefully, and you may also hear the famous Cheverny hunting hounds in action.
Of course, a visit to Château de Cheverny and its permanent Tintin exhibition is a must.
This is also where the AOC Cheverny wine region shines. Stop by the Maison des Vins at the château exit to explore local winemakers in a single tasting session. On the return journey, cycle past the renowned Romorantin vineyards, the only grape variety for AOC Cour-Cheverny wines..
The Château de Chambord: A Royal Destination
Getting to Chambord from Les Hayes is easy! Take the Arian route towards Tour-en-Sologne until you reach the intersection with the Arian Bridges, dating back to Roman times.
Stop at Château de Villesavin, once known as the «construction hut of Chambord» under Francis the First.
Then, head towards Chambord, passing through the Boulogne National Forest.
Chambord sits within a 5,440-hectare national park, enclosed by a 33 km wall, making it the largest enclosed park in Europe.
On the way back, pass through Bracieux, a must-see Sologne village with a 17th-century market hall.
Finish your route with a series of descents through Mongenet and its ponds, overlooking Fontaines-en-Sologne.
A cycling tour in the domaine of the Region’s Jewels, Blending Nature and History
This «false» loop completes the route for those coming from Les Hayes by bike, offering a discovery of the Chambord National Park, which spans 5,440 hectares and is the largest enclosed park in Europe, surrounded by a 35 km wall.
In total, the two routes add up to 52 km, making it a full-day ride with a lunch stop at Château de Chambord.
From the château, take the road towards Thoury, where you can stop at the Ferme de Maugerie to see its herd of Angora goats, known for producing Mohair.
Then, head to Crouy-sur-Cosson, home to an 11th- and 12th-century church renowned for its wall paintings and stained glass windows.
Take a break at Montperché pond on your way back to Bracieux, then continue the route towards Les Hayes
A Charming Ride Through the Heart of Sologne’s Landscapes, Between Fields and Villages.
Throughout your ride along the fields, keep your eyes open: herons, egrets, ducks in flight, roe deer, and hares may make an appearance.
Starting from Château des Hayes, head towards Fontaines-en-Sologne, a charming village with its church and bakery, then continue to Bauzy. Here, you will discover the Romanesque Church of Saint-Baumer, a listed historic monument, as well as the Saint-Baumer Fountain, surrounded by ponds, hamlets, and farms.
Following the Route des Étangs, reach Neuvy and its must-see Étang de Montperché, with a panoramic viewpoint offering stunning scenery. Then, continue to Bracieux, known for its 17th-century covered market, local market, and unique shops.
Discover Lesser-Known Yet Equally Magnificent Châteaux. A Ride Combining Sensory Pleasures and Architectural Beauty.
This route around Boulogne Forest will introduce you to apple orchards, blackcurrant fields, and vineyards.
Starting from Château des Hayes, head towards Mont-près-Chambord to visit the Conservatory Orchard, which preserves 200 apple and pear varieties, with opportunities to stop at local producers’ stands. In summer, a natural swimming spot may tempt you (beware of peak-hour crowds).
Continue towards Huisseau-sur-Cosson to admire the Château des Grotteaux, built along the river (visits available). Ride along the forest until you reach Château de Villesavin, built under Francis I by the governor of Chambord’s construction.
Pause in Bracieux to explore its 17th-century market hall, shops, and crêperie.
Along the way, stay alert: herons, egrets, deer, and other wild animals might cross your path.
