Often called the "Garden of France", the Loire Valley is an enchanted land of vineyards, flowers and rolling green hills dotted with more than a thousand chateaux. It is perhaps the charm of its gentle paced life that has, for centuries, made it a sought-after location for poets and writers.
Chartes The world-famous Cathedral of Chartres is a remarkable testament to medieval architecture. Must sees include the sculpture, stained glass and the amazing collection of ancient musical instruments. The Old Town lies at the foot of the cathedral. Places of interest to visit nearby are the castles of Anet and Maintenon.
Orleans An important city in the history of France, Orleans was liberated from the British by Joan of Arc in 1429. The house in which she stayed during the ten-day siege of Orleans can be visited. The city also features the Hotel Groslot, a brick and stone Renaissance mansion and the Gothic Cathedral of St-Croix.
Blois Its famous castle has been linked throughout the centuries to the history of the Kings of France. Places of interest to visit in the surrounding area are the Chaumont-sur-Loire, which holds a famous International Festival of Parks and Gardens from mid-June through mid-October.
Chambord The largest of all the Loire Valley castles, this magnificent Renaissance edifice, built by Francois I, is surrounded by an immense park and hunting preserve which can be visited by horse drawn carriage. Not far from it is the beautifully furnished Chateau of Cheverny.
Tours is a busy university town and the traditional point of departure for exploring the Loire Valley. During the Middle Ages, it was one of the great pilgrimage sites of Europe. Today the city boasts wonderful Renaissance and neo-classical mansions. Famous wine regions include Vouvray, Chinon, Bourgueil. The most interesting sites in the surrounding area are the chateaux of Azay-IeRideau as well as the splendid medieval city of Chinon.
Amboise/Chenonceaux Huddled under the shadow of its impressive royal castle, Amboise is a pretty town with white stone houses dating from the 15th century. Also of interest is the Clos Luce, the former residence of Leonardo da Vinci. A few miles away is the Chateau of Chenonceau - the Ladies Castle - built by one of France’s great Queens.
