Loire Valley

The Loire Valley has over 300 chateaux! Some are architectural masterpieces and others range from fortified castles to splendid residences. Many were built on hilltops as a defence against enemies and some are inspired by Italian designers.

Historically they are the legacy of French kings and queens who loved this area of France and had royal estates here. Then came the tradition of majestic gardens, so you will often find these in the grounds. 

Whatever your particular interest we are sure that you will revel in visits to the following, most of which you can visit on our Loire Valley Cycling and Walking Tours. 

Azay-le-Rideau

Described as a fairy-tale castle, this imposing structure was built in the 16th century and has turrets and a moat. It was actually built on an island (in the middle of the River Indre) during the reign of Francois 1 and is a combination of French and Italian design. 

Chambord

This magnificent chateau is the very largest in all of the Loire Valley and is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, built in white limestone. Explore its sumptuous interior. Rather than simply a residential palace or a hunting lodge it is an amazing work of art, inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. It also has an 18th century French formal garden which links up with the surrounding forest.

Chenonceau

This castle is a feat of medieval architecture, spans the River Cher and was built in 1513. If you visit during the summer months you can take an illuminated night walk. It has a rich museum collection of furniture, paintings and tapestries and also has extraordinary gardens, one of which was designed by Catherine de Medici.

Blois

Located in the town centre, this chateau has frequently been remodelled and has buildings which span the 13th to the 17th centuries. It has 4 wings and a diversity of styles stemming from the fact that it was designed and built by 7 kings and 10 queens of France. From April to September you can see a Sound & Light Show in the courtyard. 

Not only is the Loire the longest river in France, but there is also an abundance of wildlife that live in it. For the bird watchers, expect to see buzzards, eagles, woodpeckers, and larks. When cycling through the forests, be sure to also lookout for the many uncommon bird species you might find, such as the short-toed treecreeper and the European bee-eater (which can eat up to 250 bees a day!). It's not just birds either! There are many land animals such as wild boars and aquatic creatures, so keep an eye out for bitten tree trunks, as you might see a beaver! Beavers were reintroduced to the area around 30 years ago and are commonly seen along the river.

Interestingly, another semi-aquatic rodent seen in the Loire river is a Coypu (pictured). Coypu origins are in South-American, and they found their way over to France due to fur traders in the 1940s. When the market collapsed, they escaped and still inhabit the river to this day.