Luxury Loire Valley Holidays
The Loire Valley is defined by its rich and intriguing history, where chateâux sit amongst pristine vineyards and storybook villages.
- Creative and unique itineraries, put together for you
- Private tours of the Loire Valley with expert guides
- In-depth knowledge of the French region from passionate experts
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A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Loire Valley France, is a charming region that stretches along the River Loire from Orléans to Angers. The Loire Valley is defined by its glorious history, where the kings of France established their domains, leaving a land dotted with magnificent chateâux.
Found in the central region of France and a short distance by train from Paris, the pretty towns of the Loire are home to fine wines and lush rolling countryside. Visit for a mini break, as part of an itinerary around France’s winelands (Burgundy, Bordeaux and Champagne), or on a historical tour taking in Paris and Normandy.
Why plan a luxury holiday to the Loire Valley?
With a history dating back 1,000 years, there are treasures and tales to be discovered around every corner on a Loire Valley holiday. There’s the Renaissance masterpiece of Chambord, the enchanting 'Ladies castle' of Chenonceau and the fairytale Azay-le-Rideau. If nature and gardens appeal, the Chateau de Villandry, with its stunning Renaissance-style gardens is worth a visit also.
The region's gentle landscape and relaxed pace make it ideal for days exploring by boat or by cycling the scenic pathways between many of the chateâux, wine tasting along the way comes as part of the territory. Colourful markets grace most towns, with everything from rich, varied charcuterie to the local speciality of goat's cheese. Each of the Loire villages has its own slice of intrigue; Leonardo da Vinci's former home in Amboise, the National School of Horsemanship in Saumur and the half-timbered houses of Tours to name just some of the highlights.
Luxury Loire Valley Tours & Hotels
The entire Loire Valley is decorated with exquisite chateâux-turned-hotels, which make a perfect base from which to explore the area. Here are the best places to stay in the Loire Valley.
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Things To Do in the Loire Valley, France
Activities on holiday in the Loire Valley will make you feel like modern-day royalty, as you walk through vineyards, sail down rivers and stroll around castles.
Things to do in Loire Valley
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Private Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride
Experience the Loire Valley's natural splendour from a unique perspective during a private sunset hot air balloon ride over the châteaux, vineyards, and canals below. Witness the golden hues of the setting sun as it casts a warm glow over the magnificent castles below. From up high, you’ll really be able to appreciate the precise designs of the regal gardens and the incredible architecture below.
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Picnic in a Vineyard
Wine tasting is one of the highlights of a holiday in the Loire Valley, with it being home to some of the world’s best varieties of Sauvignon Blanc, like Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, as well as up-and-coming young winemakers reintroducing the world to once forgotten grapes. Once the wine tasting is complete though, settle into a lazy lunch among the vines with a luxury picnic. The Loire Valley isn’t short of idyllic picnic spots, but a table set up in the middle of nature is something to remember.
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Guided Tours of Chateaux
Top of our list of things to do in Loire Valley is a visit to one of the many châteaux, which are filled with heritage and grandeur. Each tells its own story through the art, gardens, and interiors. Among the most popular is Château de Chenonceau, which is recognised by its impressive structure bridging the river Cher and the Ladies’ Château. After exploring the castle itself, walk through Château de Chenonceau’s manicured and more natural gardens, wander around the estate’s maze and have lunch in The Orangerie restaurant. Also up on our list of favourites is the majestic Château de Chambord, the largest of the Loire châteaux and one of the most extravagant commissions of its time.
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Loire River by Boat
The Loire River is the longest in France, linking the Loire Valley with pretty towns like Burgundy. You don’t need to go that far to enjoy the beautiful green banks of this part of France though. Go by day and enjoy a slow, sunny day onboard a wooden sailing boat, or opt for a boat ride accompanied by aperitif and sunset. The boatman will tell you tales of their lives in the Loire and the history of the sites you pass.
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Go Cycling
With excellent bike routes that span approximately 500 miles, Loire Valley cycling holidays are very popular. Routes go from Nevers on the Loire-Burgundy border to the Atlantic Ocean via the small seaside town of Saint Brévin. Cycle past châteaux and wineries stopping for wine tours and tastings. Scott Dunn’s team can help with routes, wine tasting bookings and bicycle hire.
- Private Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride
- Picnic in a Vineyard
- Guided Tours of Chateaux
- Loire River by Boat
- Go Cycling
Loire Valley Holiday FAQs
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The best town to stay in on holiday in the Loire Valley depends on your hotel preference. Tours is known as the gateway to the Loire Valley, with plenty of charming hotels and restaurants. Amboise is a pretty town with a rich history, famous for its royal château and the Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's final residence, and Blois is another historical town with a stunning château and a picturesque old town. Then there is Saumur, also famous for its impressive château and the Cadre Noir, the French National Riding School.
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The best time to visit the Loire Valley is during late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). You should find that the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months. Additionally, the gardens and vineyards are in full bloom, providing beautiful scenery.
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We recommend going to the Loire Valley on holiday for 3 to 5 days to fully explore the main attractions. This gives you enough time to visit several châteaux, enjoy the local restaurants, and perhaps take a leisurely bike ride or boat trip along the Loire River.
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Yes, Tours is an excellent base for exploring the Loire Valley. It is very central, has good transport links (including a TGV station), a wide range of accommodation options, and plenty of restaurants and shops. From Tours, you can easily reach many of the major châteaux and attractions either by car, bike, or organised tours of Loire Valley.
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The Loire Valley is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, but some of the most beautiful parts include Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, as well as villages along the Loire River, such as Montsoreau and Candes-Saint-Martin, which are charming. Then there are the vineyards and gardens, particularly around towns like Saumur and Chinon.
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The fastest train from Paris to Loire Valley is one hour on the TGV to Tours. You can also get trains into Blois (1 hour 30), Amboise (1 hour 40) and Semur (2 hours 40).
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