A whirlwind of beautiful chateaux, wine tastings, historic towns, and a bit of walking
Loire
Loire Valley Holidays
5 Fairytale Chateaux to See on Loire Valley Holidays
Château de Villandry: The youngest of the chateaux in the Loire Valley, Château de Villandry was built following the Italian wars which took place between 15th and 16th centuries. Staying true to the Renaissance and neoclassical designs of that time, its interiors are elaborately decorated with silks, gilded features and stunning paintings. Once owned by Jean Le Breton, the interiors were redesigned, and the chateaux no longer showed evidence of its past life as a medieval fortress. Wrapped around the chateau are beautiful Renaissance gardens with ponds, immaculate lawns and water fountains.
Château de Chenonceau: Arguably the most striking château in the Loire Valley and one of the most visited, Château de Chenonceau is distinguished by its five-arched bridge that spans the River Cher. Its whitewashed walls and turrets create a dazzling reflection on the water, making it a much-loved subject for photographers and artists. As well as possessing such beauty, a rich history courses through the walls of the château. It was originally gifted to Diane de Poitiers in the 16th century, who commissioned the famous bridge, before being acquired by Catherine de Medici following the death of King Henry II. Catherine organised the first ever firework display in France inside the château grounds.
Châteaux de Clos Lucé: Made from tufa and red brick, Château du Clos Lucé has a distinctive façade that stands out from most other chateaux in the Loire Valley. In the late 15th century, it was bought by Charles VIII, becoming a second royal residence for the king. Also home to another famous French figure, it was later occupied by artist Leonardo Da Vinci and his art students and it even housed the Mona Lisa. To this day you can still see the frescoes which his students painted in his bedroom, study and the chapel. The most famous fresco, Virgo Lucis, was believed to have given Château du Clos Lucé its name.
Château d’Amboise: During the 15th and 16th centuries the French monarchy lived in the Gothic Châteaux d’Amboise, which teeters majestically on the banks of the Loire River. It too had connections with French artist, Leonardo Da Vinci as he was invited to draw the château for Francis I, and the chapel was to later become his final resting place. In contrast to its grand and beautiful exterior, a turbulent history lies within the ancient walls of the chateau.
Château de Nitray: An elegant and imposing building, Château de Nitray takes centre stage in the Loire Valley between Amboise and Chenonceau. Perfectly manicured gardens sprawling across 43 hectares surround the chateau and have been given national heritage status. As you stroll among turreted archways and vineyards, you can almost sense its history. The grapes that are grown in the vineyards are used in the production of some of the most famous French wines, including Sauvignon, Chenin, Cabernet and Chardonnay, and can be sampled on wine tasting tours at the chateau.
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Gordon Gottlieb Loire Valley: Walks, Wine & Chateaux
Julia M Cycle the Loire ValleyI have just got home from my cycle holiday in the Loire. It exceeded my expectations. The guide Pierre, was very knowledgeable and helpful. The bikes were good. The cycle paths were all excellent, a few quiet roads, I did not feel nervous or over challenged. There was variety and plenty of visits to Chateau’s, vineyards and wine tasting. The picnic lunches were all very French, which is all part of the experience, and Thomas made wonderful choices of where we had them. The level of cycling was accurate. The distances were comfortable. I will certainly be looking for my next trip with Exodus.
Nawal C Loire Valley: Walks, Wine & ChateauxIt was well planned. I liked the type and length of walks. It was balanced with the Chateaux visits and winery tours.
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