Loire

Loire Trips

With their turrets and flamboyant architecture reflected in the waters of the river, the Loire chateaux provide one of the classic images of France. Created for the French kings and aristocracy by Flemish and Italian craftsmen during the Renaissance, they and their intricate gardens help to make the Loire one of the country's most beautiful regions.

The landscape of the Loire includes attractive – and famous – vineyards, as well as orchards and pastures, remnants of royal hunting forests and, of course, the magnificent chateaux. There's no better way to explore the region than by bike or by foot, stopping as you please to sample some of the area's famous cuisine.