From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
Majestic chateaux, magnificent gardens, endless vineyards and the graceful sweep of France’s longest river—you’d be hard-pressed to find a more romantic embodiment of French culture, cuisine and landscape than the Loire Valley.
A sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Listed treasure, this is a region of rich history, sumptuous architecture and vibrant culture, and one that’s superbly suited to outdoor adventures.
Cycle past opulent riverfront castles and ramble through royal gardens, historic vineyards and postcard-perfect villages. Cruise the calm reaches of the Loire River, indulge in incredible local food and wine and explore the lavish architecture of the French Renaissance.
Our unique guided and self-guided adventures are designed to bring you the highlights and hidden gems of this spectacular region. Join us as we discover the historic heart of France!
8Days
Introductory to Moderate
5Days
Introductory
6Days
13Days
7Days
Trips only include what you need like accommodation, meals, bikes on cycle trips, luggage transfers, maps and route directions on self guided trips and an experienced local guide for group trips, as well as the peace of mind that comes with complete backup and support.
On self guided trips you can expect to receive up-to-date and well researched route notes and maps, seamless luggage transfers and competitive pricing on all essential services. Many self guided trips also have daily departure dates, allowing you to enjoy the convenience and flexibility a self guided trip offers.
Cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land or sea - we can help you explore Europe exactly the way you want.
Set on large grounds, these large French country houses or castles are often family run and named after the local wine. The building and rooms are often decorated to match the history of the building, complimenting the local food and wine experiences.
Think of it as your floating hotel, where each day you experience a different sunrise and sunset location. Unpacking only once, berths range from two lower or bunk bed style but can be upgraded to larger berths with double beds. The bar and dining area is always a popular hangout at the end of each day’s activity. The crew includes an onboard cook.
In the Loire region, we use a range of 2-3 star hotels, often family run. These charming hotels provide access to local living thanks to your hosts. The hospitality is generous and their local knowledge is invaluable. Where possible, we choose hotel locations that add to your experience.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Explore the 15th-century Château d’Amboise, which was the residence of King Charles VIII and features Leonardo da Vinci's tomb, royal chambers, gardens and underground passageways
Blois is a picturesque medieval town with a vibrant centre that is best known for its imposing chateau
Discover why the Château Chenonceau is the most photographed chateau in the Loire Valley
Get lost in the extravagant Chateau de Chambord, which boasts over 400 rooms
Sample the wines of Touraine, Chinon and Saumur as you walk or cycle between the region’s famous vineyards
Follow France’s longest river through the Loire Valley on the 800km Loire à vélo cycle route
Visit Orléans, best known as the town Joan of Arc saved from the English
Enjoy local wine as you cruise down France’s longest river on a barge custom built for crusing on the French canals
The months of June to August are busy times with temperatures ranging between 15 - 25 degrees Celsius (59 - 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and sometimes slightly higher.
France is +2 hours ahead of GMT/UTC
French (official)
In most areas some English will be spoken
Euro
+33
Electricity in France is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).
Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www.schengenvisainfo.com/schengen-visa-countries-list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements.
Your safety is our number one concern. Our safety track record is exemplary thanks to careful management and thorough consultation with local partners. Our industry leading risk management procedures have become a skill that we continue to refine. Our leaders in the field are highly trained and have safety as their number one priority. Expert leaders, risk assessments, quality inclusions and your financial security all come standard when you travel with us.
Please refer to our Travel Advisory page for updates on recent events, travel warnings and advice.
We strongly recommend that all clients take out travel insurance at the time of booking to cover against sickness, accident, loss of baggage, unexpected alterations to travel arrangements and travel disruption, emergency evacuation, cancellations, etc. Insurance information is enclosed with your pre-departure information. Please contact us if you would like to obtain a quote for your trip duration.
We suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Money and valuables should always be stored safely when travelling. Keep your passport with you at all times and do not leave it in your main luggage. You will need it to change money and check into hotels. Where safety deposit boxes are available, we recommend that you use them. Keep jewellery and valuables to a minimum.