Work your way along the banks of the Loire to take in vibrant cultural hubs and rolling vineyards interspersed with beautiful castles and villages. To get started, here are a couple of towns and villages worth pinning on the map:
Nantes – the gateway to the Loire Valley, Nantes is a thriving university town with a large airport, an exciting tech industry and a great cultural scene.
Saumur – Whether you arrive by the river or by the road, Saumur’s fairytale Renaissance castle never fails to impress as you approach. Visit the sparkling wine houses to find out how the local bubbly is made (as enjoyable as champagne at a fraction of the price) and buy delicious red wines straight from the vineyard. Also home to the Cadre Noir, France’s elite military riding school – visit the stables or see them perform.
Turquant – a delightful troglodyte village on the outskirts of Saumur with artists’ workshops and restaurants carved into the limestone cliffs. These former cave dwellings date back to prehistoric times yet give modern houses a run for their money in terms of their naturally regulated interior temperature. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, pick up some souvenir craftworks and enjoy fabulous views from a stroll through the vineyards.
Brissac Quincé – just a stone’s throw from the fortress town of Angers, Brissac Quincé may be small but certainly has a lot going for it. The village is dominated by a hilltop chateau, whose claim to fame is being the highest castle in France. Flanked by the Loire and sweeping vineyards, the castle hosts an annual hot air balloon tournament in August every year.
Tours – A vibrant town that captures all the spirit of the Loire Valley. Beautiful bridges, quaint cobbled streets and half-timbered houses create the ultimate French setting. Venture a little further and take in the river banks, magnificent monuments and fabulous vineyards. Visit the winemakers for expert advice (and to sample) the crisp dry white Touraine or Vouvray whites and quaffable reds.
Orleans – This cathedral town is the birthplace of Joan of Arc, the Maid of Orleans who orchestrated the movement to oust the English from the town they held under siege in the 1420s after hearing voices in her head. A hands-on history lesson.
Loches – Built by the County of Anjou a thousand years ago, this fortress is less well known but equally as enchanting as castles in neighbouring towns and is comprised of a keep, a royal lodge and the gardens. Joan of Arc sojourned here in 1429 after succeeding in her mission to free Orleans from England’s hold.
Sélection
Head to My Loire Cottage for your family holiday in the Loire Valley. This elegant holiday cottage is in a village near the vineyards and the Loire Valley castles, promising a true taste of French country living. This is a one-of-a-kind holiday home with a swimming pool and makes the perfect base for discovering the local wine region and beautiful river landscapes.
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Château des Trophées a holiday chateau in a peaceful corner of north-west France. This country estate is just an hour’s train ride from Paris and offers total seclusion and the perfect chance to get back to nature. There is plenty of space both inside and out and the chateau can sleep up to 15 guests. Choose between the pool, sauna, jacuzzi and woodland walks for ultimate relaxation in a setting unlike any other.
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Uniquely situated in a vast park bordering the Loire and the Vienne rivers, the Spirit of Loire Valley chateau overlooks a charming village and dominates the Loire. This historic building provides sumptuous views overlooking the terraces
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Welcome to your country cottage in the Loire Valley, perfect for a group holiday with family or friends. Demeure de Touraine oozes elegance and character and is beautifully furnished to make you feel right at home. This large holiday home with a private pool promises space, privacy and relaxation, with the Loire Valley castles and vineyards on the doorstep.
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Living is easy at this bright and spacious luxury barn conversion set in the grounds of a castle. Historical architecture, high-end facilities, and sweeping countryside mean that scenery and serenity are guaranteed.
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Pearl of the Loire Valley is a luxury château to rent in the Loire Valley which can accommodate fifteen people. If offers you complete comfort in a sophisticated setting. Perfectly furnished, it adapts to all your desires thanks to the diversity of its living areas and the atmospheres they offer. The location is perfect for discovering this region which is world renowned for its châteaux, its heritage and the charm of its countrysides.
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Château Campagne Chic is a holiday chateau with a swimming pool just two hours’ drive from Paris. Its idyllic countryside location makes it a great high-end bolt hole in a relaxing, rural setting. With 10 bedrooms and capacity to sleep 20 people, it is a fabulous venue for celebrations or special occasions. This chateau is a sophisticated yet inviting property where aristocratic architecture meets comfort and convenience.
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Luxury Design Loire Valley is a very special rental property in the Loire Valley châteaux region. This one-of-a-kind chateau is a savvy blend of old prestige and modern luxury with a layout that strikes the perfect balance of spaces for guests to come together or enjoy their privacy. It is a beautiful place to enjoy special times with family or friends, with the treasures of the Loire Valley on the doorstep.
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Authentic Loire Valley is a French country cottage to rent for a relaxing holiday in the heart of the Loire Valley. This former hunting lodge is listed as a historical building and combines the charm of the old with the comforts of modern living. With its swimming pool, tennis court, 30 hectares of mature grounds and stunning floral gardens, Authentic Loire Valley is perfect for switching off and enjoying a taste of the good life among the vineyards and castles of the Loire Valley.
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"Vacances à la Campagne" is a historic French château for rent in the countryside south of Paris. This is the region of Sologne – one of France’s best kept secrets. Far from the glamour and crowds of big towns and beaches, Sologne is all about rural simplicity, where famers and winegrowers work the land to produce fine terroir products. This property is steeped in history and authenticity, with charismatic antique features. This château for rent near the Sancerre vineyards has two annexes and can sleep up to 20 people. Perfect for a special get-together with friends or a big family holiday with a swimming pool in the French countryside.
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