This green river valley and the surrounding towns has always been a popular destination with tourists visiting France. Not only are there lots of outdoor areas to explore and enjoy, but the Loire Valley is particularly well known for the huge number and variety of castles throughout the region. Everything from medieval fortresses to opulent country homes. It would be impossible to visit all of these chateaux, but there are some definite highlights that should not be missed.
One of the oldest castles in this part of France is the Chateau St-Jean in the town of Nogent-le-Rotreau. The oldest parts are over 1,000 years old and the museum inside the castle details the building's long and fascinating history. The Chateau de Chambord, near Chaumont-sur-Loire, once belonged to Catherine de Medici, and still has the original drawbridge in place. The castle's fantastic organised grounds are one of the main attractions, and they host the International Garden Festival every year. The 15th century Chateau de Langeais has hardly changed since the 15th century, when it hosted the wedding of King Charles VIII. More of a fortress than a palace, many of the rooms are nevertheless opulently decorated with fine furniture and works of art, while you can still climb up to the ramparts and towers to play soldiers if you like!
The nearby Chateau d'Usse is said to have inspired the castle in Sleeping Beauty, and its turrets and whitewashed walls do look like something out of a fairy tale. There may only be a few buildings and defensive walls left of Chateau de Chinon in the town of the same name, but his castle played a major role in French history; it was here that Joan of Arc met the French King. Finally, the most impressive and most photographed of all the castles in the Loire Valley is the impressive Chenonceau, with its arched galleries over the River Cher, holding the building in place above the water. Take a boat trip under the arches or enjoy the spectacular view from the large gardens.
One of the best ways of exploring this peaceful and still region of France is by bicycle. Luckily, there is a cycle track stretching for over 600 kilometres along the side of the River Loire and many of its tributaries. There are even plans to extend the Loire a Velo route further, but at the moment you could ride from Nevers to the Atlantic coast. The map and guide that accompanies the cycle path can even recommend suitable places to spend the night en route if you want to base your whole holiday around this gentle form of transportation.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Loire Valley? Then below is a selection of gites in Loire Valley and villas in Loire Valley that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
