The Chateaux de la Loire and vineyard tours are of course the region’s main attraction and far too numerous to list. However, here are a couple of things you might want to plan during your stay.
The most straightforward way to enjoy region’s natural attractions is to simply follow the Loire!
On a bike - the Loire à Vélo signposted cycle route follows the banks of the river and stretches for impressive 800 kilometres. It’s easy and enjoyable for cyclists of all abilities, from a family outing to a serious end-to-end trek.
On a boat - take to the waters and go down the Loire in a canoe. The banks are dotted with canoe rental services who will shuttle you and your equipment up and downstream as required. Unrivalled views and total tranquility guaranteed. For a less strenuous experience, take a ride on a gabare, the traditional boats used to transport merchandise up and down the Loire in centuries gone by.
Chateau d’Ussé – not just another fairytale castle, but indeed the one that inspired the story of Sleeping Beauty. Adults and children alike will enjoy the displays that re-enact the story and soaking up the magic of this sprawling chateau set in beautifully manicured grounds.
Fontevraud Abbey – resting place of English kings including King Henry 2nd and Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, and their son, Richard the Lionheart. This is the largest abbey in Europe and it was run by women. The building displays traditional local architecture with tuffeau limestone walls and slate roofing.
La Pagode de Chanteloup near Amboise offers something a little bit different from the nearby chateaux. Climb the 149 steps to the top of this 44-metre-high pagoda for breathtaking views of the domaine and the surrounding area. If that sounds a little too strenuous, then simply enjoy visiting the grounds, which include a semi-circular lake, giant-sized wooden games, a Chinese garden and boat hire.
Le Puy du Fou, near Cholet. Voted the world’s best theme park, this makes a great family day out. Enjoy breathtaking performances depicting medieval events with a huge cast (most of whom are local volunteers who display an incredible level of professionalism), birds of prey and an impressive array of stunts and special effects. The depth and history of the performances makes a refreshing change from the superficial thrills and frills at other parks and will amaze visitors of every age.
The Ackerman or Gratien & Mayer cellars in Saumur. Find out all you ever wanted to know about making sparkling wine, topped off with a tasting session. Of course, the region abounds with vineyards and wine tours for every type and area of production. Visit the Maison du Vin in the larger towns to find out more.
Les Machines de l'île - Nantes. Les Machines de l'île sont autant de structures mécaniques géantes hébergées dans la nef des anciens chantiers navals. Ces personnages et animaux sont exposés dans le monde entier. Grimpez sur un éléphant de 40 m de haut et contemplez les prototypes sur lesquels travaillent actuellement les équipes, dont l'Arbre aux hérons qui doit voir le jour à l'horizon 2022. Cet endroit mérite de s'y arrêter.
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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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