Top towns and villages in Loire Valley

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.