Are you dreaming of a timeless experience, a getaway for two where relaxation is the only focus? Just two hours from London, the Loire Valley invites you to slow down the pace and make the most of every moment. Leisure complexes and water sports, boat hire and opportunities to taste local products with authentic flavours that will take you by surprise. For a romantic weekend or a longer stay, the Loire Valley guarantees a magical experience combining nature, culture and culinary pleasures. Come and treat yourselves to an unforgettable experience for two.
A romantic getaway with incredible gardens and magnificent châteaux
The Château de Chenonceau is a true treasure that elegantly straddles the Cher, or the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau set on an island, boasts incredible architecture you’ll love admiring. At the Château de Maintenon, dive into history and walk in the footsteps of the Sun King and his secret wife, Madame de Maintenon.
Gardens are everywhere in the Loire Valley, whether they surround the châteaux with breathtaking beauty or flourish as veritable havens of nature. Treat yourselves to a royal promenade through the French formal gardens of the Château de Chambord. Explore the beautiful Roquelin gardens where the scent of roses fills the air with its delicate floral notes. The soothing atmosphere in the gardens at the Domaine de Poulaines is an invitation to slow down the pace.
If it’s freedom you’re looking for, why not go for a bike ride? There are so many cycle paths winding across the region, to experience to these treasures at a leisurely pace. Pedal, breathe, and let the beauty of these places surprise you.
A GOURMET ODYSSEY IN THE LOIRE VALLEY
Calling all foodies and fans of exceptional beverages! If your idea of happiness involves a drink and delicious meal, the Loire Valley should be your next destination. Give in to temptation at Loire Valley’s fine-dining restaurants, welcoming wine tasting cellars and try the local specialities!
Check out some iconic establishments such as La Maison Tatin, where the famous world-renowned tart was invented, or Les Jardiniers in Ligré, a Michelin-starred restaurant with extensive kitchen garden in the heart of the Rabelais region. In Sancerre, Le Folklore has shaken things up a bit with its Casse-Dalle Gourmand, fusing gourmet bistro-style cuisine and local products from Berry. For a romantic meal out, opt for Le Moulin du Ponceau in the shade of Chartres cathedral.
Fancy exploring the vineyards in a different way? Stop by the Domaine Éric Louis in the Sancerre hills or the Cave Gaudrelle to taste the elegant Vouvray sparkling wine. Hire an electric scooter, try an escape room-style activity in the vineyard, or opt for a magical experience at a tasting under the stars at the Château de Chenonceau.
A FESTIVE VIBE ON THE WATER
Just picture this: the golden tints of the sunset reflecting onto the Loire, the gentle lapping waters, light-hearted melodies in the air, a drink in your hand…
When the sun goes down, the lights of the guinguettes come on and laughter and music fill the air. Come and enjoy a drink and some local cuisine underneath the twinkling fairy lights, in a musical atmosphere. In Tours-sur-Loire, there’s always something going on, such as concerts, shows and open-air cinema showings. Here, time seems to stand still as you embrace the easy-going lifestyle of the Loire Valley.
Fancy taking to the water? Hop aboard for early evening drinks out on the water, and gaze peacefully at the river blending into the sky. Taste some local wines and specialities, listen to the Loire reveal its secrets and keep your eyes peeled for herons, egrets and terns, and even the signs of a beaver’s den in this unspoilt environment. On the Escapades Ligériennes boat trips, embrace this magical moment drifting down the river as dusk settles.
Festivals in the Loire Valley: the perfect soundtrack to the summer
In April, the much-awaited Printemps de Bourges festival kicks off the season with some rip-roaring concerts that really set the tone. Once the season has started, the Loire Valley is transformed into a huge open-air venue, with one festival after another!
Near Tours, twenty or so concerts from local and international artists take place over the three-day Terres du Son festival with a great summer vibe.
If jazz is more your thing, head to Jazz’in Cheverny and enjoy concerts in a magical venue. The Festival de Chambord is a must-see musical event in a magical atmosphere. Near Orléans, the Cocorico Électro is a festival where DJs come and fire up the crowds. Have fun and dance the night away.
Spring is just around the corner and these concerts should be enjoyed to your heart’s content!
City breaks and bucolic charm in the Loire Valley
Make your way to the towns of the Loire Valley and enjoy the charm and unique characteristics with your other half. Orléans, Blois, Tours, Bourges, Chartres and Châteauroux, each town has its own distinct personality. Wander around the lively historic town centres, venture inside the bistros serving local specialities and check out the arts & crafts boutiques where you’ll come across some great finds. Fans of culture will be delighted with the eclectic range of activities on offer at the museums, concerts and surprising exhibitions.
The Loire Valley is also a destination with plenty of charming little villages. Some of them bear the ‘Plus Beaux Villages de France’ (Most Beautiful Villages in France), ‘Petites Cités de Caractère’ (Charming little towns) or ‘Villages-Jardins’ (garden village) labels and you’ll love exploring the picturesque narrow streets, beautiful gardens, half-timbered houses and timeless atmosphere. Come and see this magical destination for yourself!
Staying in the heart of the Loire Valley
For an unforgettable romantic getaway, luxury accommodation is the obvious choice. Luxury hotels, inviting bed & breakfasts, atypical and cosy accommodation, or maybe even an upmarket campsite surrounded by nature, the choice is yours, depending on what you fancy and your budget. There’s a wide range of authentic and affordable possibilities. Whether you’re looking to explore new places, to relax, or for a wellness or culinary experience, anything is possible in the Loire Valley!
