Loire Valley

Fast Facts

Location: Along River Loire from Maine to Sully-sur-Loire
Attraction Type: Famous river valley
Significance: A UNESCO World Heritage site for its architectural splendor, and wine growing areas.
Best Time to Visit: May to September
How to Reach: By road or train from Paris
Nearest International Airport: Charled de Gaulle and Orly in Paris

Loire Valley in France is doubly important to travelers to France. On the one hand it is the Cradle of French language and on the other it is the finest wine growing region of France. This Garden of France is a majestic kaleidoscope of outstanding historic cities, majestic monuments, picturesque landscapes, and the most productive vineyards of France.

The Castle of Sleeping Beauty in the forest edge of Chinon takes you to fairyland. Le Chateau d’Usse as it is actually called overlooks the Indre and Loire River valleys and is set against the backdrop of the forests of Chinon. Chenonceau Castle is another remarkable castle traditionally built for female residents. Constructed over a set of arches across Cher River it gives the impression of a floating building. Popularly called ‘Romantic Chenonceau’ it is in the formation of half castle and half bridge.

The Chateau of Chambord is another good reason to visit Loire Valley. The flamboyant architecture and the innumerable chimneys make this castle an outstanding building. Its interior with wooden floors, coffered ceilings, and immaculate decoration is outstanding. The Abbey of Fontevraud with its impressive structure amazes all visitors. The last French nobles belonging to Angevin dynasty, otherwise called the ‘Plantagenets’ were buried inside this abbatial church of Romanesque architecture.

Activities in Loire Valley

On a mountain bike explore the wine regions of Muscadet, Pouilly-Fume, Sancerre, Saumur, Chinon and Bourgueil. Study processing of red wine in Chinon region and savor its fresh fruity flavor. Pouilly-Fume is famous for its white wine. The wines are matured for a period of at least 2 to 5 years, while vintage wines may be aged for 20 years. You might participate in the Joan of Arc Festival held on 7th and 8th May with processions and parades.

Loire Valley Accommodation and Dining

While touring Loire Valley who might plan your stay in Chateau de la Bourdaisiere in Montlouis-sur-Loire, Le Bon Laboureur in Chenonceaux, Saint Pierre in Saumur, Chateau de Pray in Amboise, or Chateau de Colliers in Chambord.

For authentic French cuisine drop in at Au Plaisir Gourmand in Chinon, Relais de Bracieux in Chambord, La Licorne in Fontevraud — l’Abbaye, and Auberge du XIIe Siecle in Sache.