Loire Valley
Renaissance châteaux, river gardens and royal history
The Loire Valley is France's castle country. Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Villandry and Azay-le-Rideau sit along a gentle river between vineyards and forests, making it one of the most civilised road trips in Europe. It is perfect for families, history lovers and anyone who wants gardens, wine and slow-paced towns in one itinerary.
Plan Loire Valley with us
We book the tours, the château or villa, the driver and the tables — one plan, one point of contact.
Highlights of Loire Valley
Chambord
The largest and most extravagant Renaissance château, set in a vast forest park.
Chenonceau
The 'Ladies' Castle' spanning the Cher with extraordinary gardens.
Villandry gardens
Formal Renaissance vegetable, ornamental and water gardens in precise geometric patterns.
Loire wines
Sancerre, Vouvray, Chinon and Saumur tastings along the river banks.
Know before you go
Best time to visit
April–June and September–October. The gardens are at their best in late spring; autumn brings harvest colours and wine events.
Getting there & around
Tours and Saint-Pierre-des-Corps are the main TGV stations. A car is the easiest way to link several châteaux in a day; cycling along the Loire à Vélo route is another option.
Where to stay
Small château hotels, converted manor houses in Amboise or Tours, or private villas with gardens in the countryside.
Eating & drinking
Market-town bistros, white wines from the valley, goat's cheese, rillettes and fruit tarts.
Local tips
- Most châteaux are closed on 1 January and 25 December; check winter hours.
- Combine morning château visits with afternoon wine tastings for a relaxed pace.
- Evening sound-and-light shows run at several châteaux in summer.
Keep exploring
All tours & activities
The full catalogue, filterable by type, city and price.
ExploreChâteaux, villas & apartments
Private stays with housekeeping, chef and driver add-ons.
ExploreDining & reservations
Rooftop terraces, palace dinners and street-food trails.
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The Alps, quad bikes, yachts, scuba, markets and more.
ExploreDestination weddings
Château, mountain, vineyard and beach celebrations.
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