7-Day Loire Valley & Châteaux Tour

Overview

If you are looking to explore one of the most stunning regions of France, our Loire Valley tour is the perfect choice. The Loire is a land of fairy-tale châteaux, picturesque countryside, and world-class wines, often referred to as The Garden of France. This tour takes you to some of the most famous châteaux, including Chenonceau, Villandry, Chinon, and Amboise, along with historical treasures such as Fontevraud Abbey and Fontainebleau.

Alongside breathtaking landscapes, the Loire Valley is renowned for its gastronomic delights, including fine wines, fresh produce, and rich cheeses. You’ll enjoy a wine tasting at the renowned Ackerman Cellars and explore charming medieval towns that still echo with the history of Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, and the French monarchy.

This tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty, with guided visits to world-class monuments, relaxing countryside walks, and plenty of time to savour the local way of life.

What’s Included?

✔ Six nights in hand-picked 3- and 4-star hotels.
✔ Daily breakfast and select evening meals.
✔ Guided tours of Monet’s House, Tours, Fontevraud Abbey, and Chinon.
✔ Wine tasting at Ackerman Cellars.
✔ Visits to Château Chenonceau, Château Villandry, Château d’Amboise, and Château de Fontainebleau.
✔ Eurostar travel from London to Paris and all transfers.
✔ Expert tour manager throughout the trip.
✔ Free time to explore charming towns and countryside.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Vernon

• Depart London St Pancras via Eurostar to Paris (approx. 2hrs 15mins).
• Transfer by coach to Vernon, a charming town near Claude Monet’s home in Giverny.
• Check into the 3-star Hotel Normandy.
• Welcome dinner included at the hotel.

Day 2: Monet’s House & Chartres Cathedral

• Morning visit to Monet’s House & Garden in Giverny.
  • See the iconic water lily pond and Japanese bridge from his famous paintings.
  • Explore his historic home, filled with inspiration from his artistic life.
• Travel to Chartres for a visit to the stunning Gothic cathedral, famous for its intricate stained-glass windows.
• Arrive in Tours, the capital of the Loire Valley.
• Check into either the 3-star Kyriad Hotel, 4-star Novotel Tours Centre Gare, or 4-star Mercure Tours Hotel.

Day 3: Tours & Château de Chenonceau

• Guided walking tour of Tours, including:
  • The medieval Old Town, with its timber-framed houses.
  • The Place Plumereau, a picturesque square lined with cafés.
  • The impressive Saint-Gatien Cathedral.
• Afternoon visit to Château de Chenonceau, one of France’s most stunning castles:
  • Built across the River Cher, this château has a fascinating history tied to Catherine de’ Medici and Mary Queen of Scots.
  • Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Dinner at a charming local restaurant in Tours.

Day 4: Fontevraud Abbey, Saumur & Wine Tasting

• Guided tour of Fontevraud Abbey, a UNESCO-listed site:
  • Final resting place of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II, and Richard the Lionheart.
  • A fascinating example of medieval monastic architecture.
• Visit Saumur, a charming riverside town known for:
  • Its picturesque château and lively market square.
  • Local specialties like fine wines and cheeses.
• Wine tasting at Ackerman Cellars, one of the oldest sparkling wine producers in the Loire.

Day 5: Chinon & Château Villandry

• Morning visit to Chinon, a historic medieval town:
  • Joan of Arc met the Dauphin here, shaping French history.
  • Explore Château de Chinon, a stronghold overlooking the Vienne River.
  • Time to wander through the charming Old Town.
• Afternoon visit to Château Villandry, famous for its incredible Renaissance gardens:
  • Stroll through the ornamental vegetable gardens, fountains, and flower terraces.
  • One of the most photographed gardens in France.

Day 6: Amboise & Château of Clos Lucé (Leonardo da Vinci’s Home)

• Morning visit to Amboise, a town nestled along the Loire River:
  • Visit Château d’Amboise, a former royal residence.
  • See the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years here.
• Visit Château of Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked:
  • Discover models of his inventions and interactive exhibits.
  • Stroll through the picturesque gardens and wooded park.
• Transfer to Fontainebleau, where we stay at either:
  • 4-star Mercure Paris Sud Parc du Coudray or
  • 4-star Novotel Fontainebleau Ury.
• Farewell dinner included at the hotel.

Day 7: Château de Fontainebleau & Return to London

• Morning visit to the grand Château de Fontainebleau:
  • One of France’s largest and most historic palaces.
  • Napoleon’s residence before his exile to Elba.
  • Magnificent Renaissance interiors, stunning frescoes, and opulent gardens.
• Transfer to Paris Gare du Nord for the Eurostar back to London.

Why Choose This Tour?

✔ Perfect for history lovers – explore châteaux, abbeys, and medieval towns rich in heritage.
✔ Beautiful landscapes – see the Loire Valley’s rolling vineyards, riverbanks, and elegant gardens.
✔ Ideal for wine and food enthusiasts – enjoy local specialities and a wine tasting in Saumur.
✔ Hassle-free travel – all transport, transfers, and accommodations arranged.
✔ Expert-led tours – knowledgeable guides bring the region’s history to life.
✔ Leisurely pace – ample time for sightseeing and independent exploration.

Join us on this unforgettable journey through the Loire Valley – France’s most enchanting region!