Accueil Our destination The Loire Valley
CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Just an hour from Paris, the Loire Valley is the ideal region for rediscovering the joys of the great outdoors, with walks, picturesque villages and traditional markets offering a wide range of opportunities to experience the French art of living so particular to this area. More than 20 years after the Loire Valley was first listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the values that shape life in the region are anchored more than ever in a sustainable approach: preserving the nature and heritage – the Loire Châteaux – that give area its unique character and international renown.
And with good reason: each of these major sites reveals fundamental chapters in the history of France! Elegant Renaissance residences, imposing medieval fortresses, beautiful classical facades… The Loire Châteaux invite you to step back into history. Discover their majestic architecture, carefully maintained gardens and hidden treasures on an exciting journey through the splendid scenery of the landscapes of the Loire Valley.
Olivier Marchant – Domaine National de Chambord
JF Grossin – Arboretum des Grandes Bruyères
For stimulating the senses, a walk in a garden is a must! The Loire Valley is home to several gardens that are steeped in Renaissance heritage. From romantic gardens to château gardens and collection gardens, there’s something for everyone! These unique, peaceful places offer the opportunity to discover botany and gardening know-how or even get hands-on with cooking classes, wild plant picking, cosmetics making, etc.
An “eco-tourism” visit to the Loire Valley is an opportunity to slow down, take time to meet people and share experiences with others. Many outdoor activities such as canoeing, outings in traditional or electric boats, segway rides through vineyards, walking and, of course, cycling allow visitors to discover the Loire Valley and its tributaries.
5,000 km of cycle routes and loops make the Loire Valley the perfect cycling destination. Verdant countryside, small towns and charming villages are dotted along the itineraries. For a first cycling holiday, the Loire à Vélo, the star of all cycle routes, offers a 900km itinerary along the Loire and past vineyards and châteaux for the enjoyment of all. The Loire à Vélo Passport is a real must-have to keep a record of each stage completed! The Indre à Vélo, the Way of Saint James by Bike, the Scandibérique, the Cœur de France à vélo or the Châteaux à Vélo offer plenty of alternative routes for cycling fans!
Clara Ferrand
Any first experience of the famous French art of living here will inevitably include cellar visits and tastings of Loire Valley wines. From troglodyte cellars to those in châteaux, and picnics in the vineyards to discover local produce, there’s something for everyone.
M.Perreau – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Finally, the towns of the Loire Valley have so much to offer! Orléans, Blois, Amboise, Tours, but also Chartres, Châteauroux and Bourges showcase the beauty of the Loire Valley, with its majestic châteaux and bridges spanning the Loire. But while they are the proud legacy of the past, these towns are certainly living in the present.
Explore the picturesque villages of the Loire Valley, nestled in the heart of the magical Loire landscape. Many of these pearls of the Loire Valley have now been recognised as the “Most Beautiful Villages in France” or “Small Towns of Character”. Discover them for a weekend, a longer stay or during a festive event!
