Leaving the chateau in Vouvray. Little did we realize how tough it would be to find our way back to the Loire a velo route. After 6 miles of climbing and descending, a kind French cyclist showed up the way to the trail access. By then, we had used at least two hours of valuable riding time and energy. We rode into Tours around 245 with around 25 miles left to ride. Next stop: Tours Gare. Three cheers for the French Rail system. Women and children were aboa...

This chateau was beloved by the kids. It had beautiful and extensive grounds with multiple outbuildings which kids explored. Too bad that the pool was still covered because of unseasonably cold weather. Kids played hide and seek and discovered all kinds of stuff like a snake in the bushes and old furnishings for a bar or casino party or something.

Kids outside playing cards in courtyard at our adorable hotel, Hotel Biencourt. The town is adorable, just like the hotel. Val settled right in with some tea in the courtyard. Amy and I plan to do some town and dinner reconnaissance work.

Navigating out if vouvray was really difficult and hilly. We used a lot of time and energy. So, we decided to take train from Tours to Azay-Le-Rideau, skip the 25 mile ride. Men folk (Robin, Eric, and Brent will ride it because train probably would not take longer bikes. Robin is pulling Bakers' luggage on trailer, Brent on tandem, and Eric with trailer bike. We'll see them at the chateau. Pictured the Tours Gare.

We made it onto the train! For fewer than 30 euros, all six kids and three moms rode the train. We covered in 30 minutes what would have taken 6 hours at least with the kiddos. Back in the saddle tomorrow.