Loire Valley: The Châteaux Trail

Located on the banks of the Vienne river in the heart of the Loire Valley, Chinon is easily accessible by train from Paris (approx.4 hours). Take some time to wander the cobbled streets which are lined with boutique shops, traditional boulangeries and patisseries as well as cosy cafés. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Château and its gardens. The ancient fortress dates back to the 11th century and was the preferred residence of Henry II of England and the meeting place of Joan of Arc and Charles VII.

After a leisurely breakfast of buttery croissants, homemade jams and rich coffee, a short transfer (10 mins) will bring you to the trailhead. Enjoy the sound of the birds and the scents of the forest as you follow the GR3 trail through peaceful forests and countryside.

Arrive in Azay-le-Rideau with its spectacular Renaissance Château. Seemingly floating in the Indre river, its turreted façade is simply magnifique. Spend the evening enjoying a glass of local Saumur rouge over a decadent dinner fit for royalty.

Ascent/Descent: 99m /  129m

Leaving Azay-le-Rideau and the river Indre behind, follow a mixture of quiet country roads and trails through hamlets, forests, fields and vineyards. Enjoy a panoramic view over the confluence of the Loire and Cher rivers just before reaching Villandry – the perfect place to enjoy a picnic of crusty baguette and fresh  ‘Selles-sur-Cher’ cheese. Arrive in Villandry, a small town mostly known for its magnificent Château and its unique gardens. With 6 distinct gardens of ponds, fountains, colourful flowers and vegetable patches, wandering the labyrinth of gardens is a true delight.

Ascent/Descent: 85m / 78m

Walk to the pretty town of Savonniéres, located on the banks of the Cher. From here, the trail follows the river as it meanders its way to Tours. The path is flat and open, allowing far-reaching views of the surrounding Loire valley. Sandwiched between the Cher and Loire rivers, Tours is dominated by an impressive Gothic Cathedral and a lovely, car-free centre lined with half-timbered houses. Another attraction is the indoor market, also known as the ‘Ventre de Tours’ (belly of Tours), this is a great place to get closer to French gastronomic culture, and to partake in the great French market tradition.

Ascent/Descent: 51m / 53m

Today starts with a transfer (30 mins) from Tours to the village of Chenonceaux. A visit to the famous Château is in order, known as the ‘Château des femmes’, the castle has been defined by a succession of women who painstakingly oversaw the building, design, embellishment, renovation and protection of this renaissance masterpiece. Particularly unique are its arches which span the river Cher. Follow a riverside path and then a forest path to the town of Amboise, your base for the next two nights.  

Ascent/Descent: 80m / 85m

Amboise is the jewel in the Loire’s crown. Its medieval charm and important place in history makes it a popular stop for visitors to the Loire. The main draw is of course its Château, the residence of French kings from the 15th to the 19th century, and also the last resting place of Leonardo Di Vinci, who was invited to live in Amboise by King Françoise. Other attractions include the Château du Clos Lucé, Da Vinci’s former residence, and the town’s twice weekly riverside market (Friday and Sunday). Or simply spend a day relaxing on a sunny terrace at the foot of the castle reflecting on a wonderful week of walking and discovery.

Check out of your hotel after breakfast and begin your onward travel. From Amboise, you can travel to other French destinations and airports by train. If you have more time to explore, why not consider one of our other  walking adventures in France?