Your Essential Travel Guide to the Loire Valley
Discover the Loire Valley
Few places exude charm like the Loire Valley. This fairytale-like valley in central France stretches for 170 miles along the Loire River, between the Sancerre hills and the city of Angers. It’s known as the ‘Garden of France’ thanks to its expansive vineyards and fruit orchards and is home to majestic chateaux and one-of-a-kind architecture. So, it’s no surprise that UNESCO awarded it World Heritage Site status in 2000!
Whether you’re planning a road trip from Nantes to Orléans or a bike tour along the scenic Loire à Vélo route, we’re here to inspire your itinerary. Explore our handy guide to learn about the Loire Valley’s best things to do, must-visit castles and where to stay and eat.
A brief history of the Loire Valley
1420: After King Charles VI died, his son, Charles VII, proclaimed himself king without the people’s recognition. He hid in the Loire Valley as this was the only place where the residents were loyal to him.
1428: The English surrounded Orléans, while Joan of Arc travelled to Chinon to convince Charles VII to build an army together.
Joan of Arc’s nationalist attitude enabled her to fight the English, leading to France’s unification. Charles VII was crowned in Reims.
After the unification, the kings that came after Charles VII brought Italian gardeners and architects to the Loire Valley and built beautiful Italian Renaissance-style palaces.
The best things to do in the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley brims with exciting attractions, whether you fancy visiting Chambord Castle or strolling around Orléans Forest. Below is our pick of the best things to do here.
1. Parc Floral de la Source, Orléans
Covering 86 acres, the Parc Floral de la Source is an idyllic oasis on Orléans’ southern outskirts. It has a rock, vegetable and rose garden, a butterfly greenhouse, a tropical zone and a dedicated area for pink flamingos.
2. Château de Blois, Blois
Wondering what to see in Blois? The Château de Blois is hard to beat. It is the only château in France to have hosted ten queens and seven kings. Its beautiful exterior is complemented by its interior, which features a unique Italian-style spiral staircase and balconies.
3. Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Le Mans
The Museum of the 24 Hours of Le Mans is a must-visit for motorsport lovers. Opened in 1961 and extensively renovated in 2009, it showcases over 100 historic cars, collectables, films and archive photographs. The exhibitions focus on the important figures of the 24 Hours of Le Mans and its history, illustrating the evolution of the car throughout the 20th century.
Loire Valley Castles
The Loire Valley’s castles are the epitome of romance. Standing proud along the Loire River, they are a sight to behold. Make sure to visit these residences:
Château Chenonceau – A Gothic and Renaissance masterpiece, the Château de Chenonceau exudes feminine grace. It was built and cared for by women, first Diane de Poitiers and then Queen Catherine de’ Medici. Highlights include the Russell Page tribute garden and the Queen’s apothecary.
Château de Chambord – King Francis I’s brainchild, the Château de Chambord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Loire Valley’s largest château. It’s a magnificent example of French Renaissance architecture, with unique medieval heritage elements. The highlight is the double-helix staircase, an architectural gem.
Château d’Azay-le-Rideau – Sitting on an island in the Indre River, the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau is mesmerising – not to mention its reflection on the water! Wander through its charming English-style garden, with paths leading between the meadows and the water mirrors.
Camping in the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley’s charming landscapes make it a hotspot for campers. Many campsites are located along the banks of the river or in popular towns, so you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Whether you fancy a luxurious stay at a 5-star campsite or prefer to pitch your tent in France’s unspoilt countryside, these are some of the best campsites in the Loire:
- Camping Le Parc de Fierbois
- Camping Paradis L'Arada Parc
- Camping Le Moulin Fort
- Camping Huttopia Saumur
- Camping Pottery
Our comprehensive guide to camping in France has plenty of tips to help you create your itinerary.
Where to stay in the Loire Valley
Looking for a place to rest after a busy day? Discover the Loire Valley’s best hotels below.
Logis Hôtel le Fleuray (★★★). Sandwiched between Blois and Tours, this 3-star hotel is set in a newly restored 19th-century country house. It has 22 well-equipped rooms, a hearty breakfast buffet, hot tubs and swimming pools.
Hotel & Spa Oceania L'Univers Tours (★★★★). Located in the heart of Tours, this 4-star hotel features 91 spacious rooms and state-of-the-art facilities. It has an indoor heated pool, a wellness and spa area, a fine-dining restaurant and private on-site parking.
Château d'Artigny (★★★★★). Treat yourself to a luxurious stay at the Château d’Artigny. It offers 56 rooms and first-class amenities, including a spa centre, tennis courts, a panoramic terrace and weekly wine tastings.
