Pootling not touring in the Loire Valley, and getting there

[Telecaster68]

I'm planning a cycling holiday with a friend in the Loire valley in May, and I have few questions.

The idea is to take our bikes down there on the back of a car, meet up with friends who have rented a house, and use it as a base for pootling - very much Three (or Two) Men On The Brummel rather than anything involving lycra.

• How well does the Chunnel and bike racks work?
• If we were to hire a car in the UK, are there any specialists in carrying bikes? (I'm thinking about potential bike-rack related damage and insurance especially)
• Any recommendations for Loire and bike related activities?

Thanks (and feel free to point me in the direction of any threads already covering this kind of thing - I couldn't find any).

[Galloper]

I've seen plenty of cars with racks using Eurotunnel so that shouldn't be a problem. If the rack is on the roof, you need to state that on booking as you will need to travel as a high vehicle.

I used a Saris Bones rack for many years on several cars and never had any damage but I'd recommend using repair tape or something similar to protect paintwork.

Wherever you are based, visit the local Tourist Information Office, they generally have local cycle route maps as well as the Loire a Velo guides. Saumur is an interesting city with some lovely rides through the local vineyards, they have an antiques market in the city centre on a Sunday (not sure if it's every Sunday). Beaugency is pleasant and there are, again, some enjoyable local routes, some of which will take you to the stunning Chateau Chambord. I could go on but there's so much to see, just hit the TI office wherever you are.

[Telecaster68]

Thanks. Saumur is the nearest town so will definitely go there... I'll check out the others.

[mjr]

Chateaux and vineyards. My specific tips around Blois will be too far east for you I think.

[simonhill]

Don't know if it's still the case, but at one time there were construction rules in France for rear bike racks on cars. They didn't like the ones that hung by straps. They had to be solid.

[BeardyWeirdy]

If only two of you are traveling, hire an estate (I use a passat) and put the bikes in the back. Secure, no wind noise and no hassle except putting on the front wheels when you get there. A couple of blankets to keep it clean and job done.

Just a thought