Loire

Although the first châteaux of the Loire were medieval fortresses, it was French aristocracy from the 15th to the 18th century who transformed this scenic part of the country into ‘a Valley of Kings’. Royals and nobles chose the Loire for their country retreats lavishing small fortunes on building ever more extravagant castles and palaces with opulent furnishings and magnificent gardens.

Few could argue with their choice of location. The mighty Loire glides through wooded valleys and dramatic gorges, with sparkling tributaries weaving their way through the lush countryside. Historic cities and elegant old towns are strung along the banks, promising pretty cobbled streets, tree lined avenues and convivial pavement cafés. Vineyards cover rolling hills far into the distance, providing the grapes for some of France’s best loved white, rosé and sparkling wines.

In contrast to the magnificent châteaux, Troglodyte caves can be spotted in the Loire’s chalky crags, providing shelters in Neolithic times but with many now turned into quirky modern homes or even restaurants.

When eating out in the Loire, fresh water fish including perch and pike are among the delicate specialities.

Highlights

• Châteaux – so many to choose from with magical Son et Lumière evenings through the summer: Chambord is the largest and most spectacular but Chenonceau is a classic fairytale castle, Villandry boasts the most magnificent gardens and Cheverny is noted for its lavish furnishings.
• Hot air ballooning – what better way to appreciate the beauty of the Loire than drifting silently above the countryside and châteaux, sipping champagne while admiring the views.
• Fine wines – enjoy cellar tours and tastings of the renowned Loire wines from quaffable Muscadet and Rosé d’Anjou to prized Vouvray, Sancerre and sparkling Saumur.
• Le Clos Lucé – visit the house in Amboise where Leonardo da Vinci lived for three years, now featuring scale models of his ingenius inventions, which were way ahead of his time.
• Towns and cities – stroll around the medieval old quarter of Blois and visit the elegant city of Tours for fine restaurants and lively nightlife.

Brissac

Your nearest airports - Angers, Tours.