How to Visit the Loire Valley in France

No trip to France is complete without a tour of the Loire Valley. Located in western France, the Loire Valley is often called the garden of France for its sprawling vineyards, picturesque gardens and beautiful countryside. With hundreds of chateaus and charming towns, the Loire Valley is a must see.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Visit the medieval masterpiece Cathedral of Chartes in the small city of Chartes. Once called the Acropolis of France, the cathedral is an excellent example of medieval architecture. Around the surrounding town are many other medieval touches, including cobblestone streets and the nearby castle of Anet, home to the royal Renaissance mistress, Diane de Poiters.

2. Tour France's second largest city, Orleans, which was liberated by Joan of Arc from the British in 1429. The house where Joan stayed still stands and is open to the public.

3. Take a tour of Blois Castle, situated on the Loire River. Check out the Francios I wing, with its beautiful Renaissance architecture and furnishings. They show a great deal of Italian influence that marked the height of the Renaissance in France.

4. Visit the heart of France, the town of Bourges. Sample the regions famous white wines and take a tour of the several cathedrals and chateaus that dot the region.

5. Walk through the beautiful Jardins de Villandry, situated along the Loire River. A working vegetable and flower garden, the grounds at Villandry captivate artists, tourists and locals alike.

6. View the last home of Leonardo Da Vinci, the Château du Clos Luce, in Amboise. Here Da Vinci lived the last years of his life, and is buried at nearby St. Hubert Chapel. On display at the Château are some of Da Vinci's inventions, his bedroom and workshop.

Resources

• Western France Tourist Board