Group Travel Tour Operator for holidays the Loire Valley, France
Lavish Loire Valley – Wine, Royalty & Chateaux
Discover the Lavish Loire Valley
Considered to have once been the favourite region of French Kings, the Loire Valley boasts a rich and regal history. The area is full of treasures that are waiting to be discovered as it is brimming with vineyards, historic towns and architecture. The majestic châteaux that are dotted throughout are one of the main draws of the area. Each of the many châteaux has its own unique character.
On this tour you will have chance to also see the two major cities on the Loire, Tours and Blois, the city of Tours itself is picturesque and full of historical sites and the city of Blois is home to splendid architecture as well as the former Royal Palace; Château Royal de Blois. Because of their ideal locations, these cities are your gateway to explore the stunning Loire Valley. Visit the Château de Chenonceau, arguably one of the most impressive and memorable of all the châteaux in the Lavish Loire Valley. However, do not be put off to see the others. Also visit Château d’Azay-Le-Rideau, perhaps the most romantic and attractive Château. As well as Château du Rivau, a real gem of the Loire Valley. Furthermore, in the nearby Caves des Producteurs de Vouvray allows you to sample one of the region’s specialities – wine.
Dates
Dates throughout 2024
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1/2
Travel to the Loire Valley
Depart from your local area in the UK and travel towards Dover for the ferry crossing to Calais. Arriving in Calais, continue through France, stopping in Rouen or similar for an overnight stop. The following morning, continue to your hotel in the city of Tours, your base for the next four nights.
Day 3
Château de Chenonceau and Wine Tasting
This morning, visit the Château de Chenonceau, arguably one of the most impressive and memorable of all the châteaux in the Loire Valley. We then enjoy a wine tasting at the Cave des Producteurs de Vouvray.
Day 4
Tours & Château d’Azay-Le-Rideau
This morning, there’s free time to explore the cobbled streets and elegant fountains of historic Tours. Then, head to the Château d’Azay-Le-Rideau to enjoy a highly recommended visit. Surrounded by and reflected in the river waters, it is perhaps the most romantic and attractive château of them all. Considered an excellent example of French Renaissance architecture, the château is one of the most popular in the Loire Valley.
Day 5
Château de Cheverny & Blois
This morning explore the Château de Cheverny, a lovely place and familiar to fans of the Tintin cartoons as ‘Moulinsart’, the imaginary home of Captain Haddock. The château has belonged to the same family for six centuries and was built in the early 1600s. The interior reflects the history and tastes of the family and the grounds offer an orangery, used as a safe haven for famous works of art during WW2. Afterwards, visit the hillside city of Blois for some free time to explore. Perhaps, in the evening you’d like to see the amazing and immersive light show at the Royal chateau of Blois (every evening April – September).
Day 6/7
Departure
It’s time to leave the Loire and return to the UK. Retrace your steps through France, stopping overnight en route back to Calais, where you will take a return ferry back to Dover before continuing home to your local area.
Featured hotels
Hampton by Hilton Tours ****
A comfortable based hotel situated in the very heart of Tours City Centre. Perfectly located to explore the stunning sights of Tours, the St Julien Church and Place de Chateauneuf. The Loire valley chateaux and vineyards area also within a 30 minute drive away. The hotel offers an on-site lobby bar, free breakfast and comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, microwave and coffee maker.
Ibis Tours City Centre ***
Located a 15-minute walk from the centre of Tours, ibis Tours Centre Gare offers free Wi-Fi access and an on-site restaurant. The rooms feature a desk, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower. A buffet breakfast composed of sweet and savoury dishes is served every day. Coach parking is available at the station.
Novotel Tours City Centre ****
This hotel is ideally situated in the town centre of Tours. Recently renovated, rooms are en-suite with minibar, safe, TV, telephone, radio, WiFi and air-conditioning. There is a bar and Novotel Cafe onsite. The TGV railway station and Le Vinci International Congress centre are both within walking distance. Coach parking is at the hotel or the station – about 2 minutes away.
You may also be interested in:
Dates | Half Twin | Single Supplement |
---|---|---|
Dates throughout 2024 | From £425.00 per person | Price on request |