Visiting the Loire Valley
Discover the Loire Valley: France’s Hidden Gem
Most people have heard of the Loire Valley in France—perhaps you've seen photos of the magnificent castles dotting the countryside, or maybe you enjoy sipping Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, or Crémant de Loire. Yet many travelers to France overlook this stunning region, just two hours by train from Paris. If you choose to explore the Loire Valley, you’ll be amazed by the treasures waiting in the Valley of the Kings.
The Loire Valley is renowned for its abundance of castles—over 300 of them! The most famous châteaux are Château de Chenonceau and Château de Chambord, located about an hour apart by car. Other noteworthy sites include Château de Villandry, famous for its exquisite gardens; Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final days; Château de Blois, visited by Joan of Arc in 1429; and Château d’Amboise, perched above the Loire River offering breathtaking views.
Wine is another defining feature of the region. As the third-largest wine-producing area in France—and the leading producer of white wines—the Loire Valley is home to exceptional varieties including Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Sancerre. The region also produces Crémant de Loire, a beloved French sparkling wine. Wine enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to indulge, especially in towns like Saumur, Vouvray, and Touraine, where you can taste acclaimed wines, explore vast underground cellars, take vineyard walks, cruise traditional boats along the river, and even stay overnight in vineyard estates. This region is truly a wine lover’s paradise.
Thanks to its generally pleasant weather, the Loire Valley offers an array of outdoor activities throughout the year. Cycling is especially popular, with more than 50 bike trails suitable for short rides or multi-day adventures. Along the way, you’ll find scenic picnic areas and enchanting views. The rivers of the Loire Valley are also perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating. For a truly unforgettable experience, try a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset and float over castles and vineyards bathed in golden light.
When the sun goes down, the magic continues. The Loire Valley offers fine dining, lively summer festivals, and enchanting light shows. With 19 Michelin-starred restaurants and 17 Bib Gourmand establishments, foodies will find plenty to savor. Don’t miss unique dining experiences like guinguettes—open-air riverside restaurants often accompanied by live music—or troglodyte restaurants, where meals are served in atmospheric white tufa caves. Summer evenings come alive with castle illuminations, candlelit gardens, historical sound-and-light shows, and music festivals, including the Terres du Son festival held every July at Château de Bournand.
Whether you're drawn by the wine, the castles, or the many outdoor adventures, the Loire Valley will not disappoint. Come for the wine, stay for the châteaux—and leave with memories to last a lifetime.