What to do, when to go to the Loire Valley, the best chateaux to visit and why this enchanting region is called the "garden of France".

a bit of history..

Once upon a time, a looooooong time ago, but only two hours from Paris by car, kings and queens of France did not stick to one palace but moved around from one estate to another like migrating birds. They carried with them their entire court of nobles, artists, entertainment, beds and bedpans. That’s how they rolled back then.

The romantic landscape of the Loire Valley, it’s strategic location on an important trade route, and abundant fertility made it a perfect spot on which to build majestic castles and frolic royally. Between 1400 and 1700, over 300 châteaux sprang up here, each one getting larger than the one before; a playground for the highest in the land.

The Loire Valley is home to over 2000 wineries! Making it a dream destination for wine lovers. You’ll find everything from elegant whites and dry rosés to rich reds and sweet dessert wines. If you’re heading to the charming city of Tours, make sure to check out these top producers: Domaine Huet in Vouvray for biodynamic Chenin Blanc, Maison Pierre & Bertrand Couly in Chinon for top-notch Cabernet Franc, and Château de la Roulerie in Anjou for decadent sweet wines.

The Top Five Castles OF THE LOIRE VALLEY

Château de Chenonceau
Built in 1513-1521 by Thomas Bohier and Diane de Poitiers.
With its stunning arches stretching over the Cher River, Chenonceau is one of the most beautiful and recognizable castles in the Loire Valley. It’s known as the “Ladies’ Castle” because so many influential women—including Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici—played a role in its design and upkeep.

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Château de Villandry
Built in 1532 by Jean le Breton.
Villandry is all about its magnificent gardens. The formal Renaissance-style gardens are laid out like intricate tapestries, with flowers, vegetables, and water elements creating beautiful patterns. It’s a must-see in the spring and summer when everything is in full bloom.

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Château d’Ussé
Built in 15th-17th centuries by The d'Espinay and de Valentinay families.
This fairytale castle, with its delicate turrets and towers, is said to have inspired Charles Perrault’s famous story, Sleeping Beauty. Overlooking the Indre River, it feels like something out of a Disney movie!

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Château d’Amboise
Built in 15th century by Charles VIII and Louis XII.
A true royal residence, Château d’Amboise was a favorite of French kings. It’s also where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years, his tomb is in the castle’s chapel, making it a pilgrimage spot for art and history enthusiasts.

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Château de Chambord
Built in 1519-1547 by Roi Francis I.
This massive castle is the largest in the Loire Valley and a symbol of French Renaissance style. It has over 400 rooms and a double-helix staircase that’s rumored to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself!

⚜️OUR Favorite : Château d’Ussé⚜️

Of all the castles in the Loire, Château d’Ussé is our personal favorite. It’s not as famous as some of the others, but there’s something magical about it and it’s still owned and managed by a private family. Dont be weirded out by the mannequins in period dress. Do go all the way up to the tower rooftops.

WHEN to GO IN LOIRE VALLEY

Spring is the best time to visit the Loire Valley. From April through June, the weather is just right : daytime highs range from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and cooler evenings are around 7-10°C (45-50°F). It’s perfect for strolling through castle gardens and sipping wine at outdoor terraces. And the flowers!!! In April, Château de Villandry’s gardens are awash with tulips and narcissus. By May, Château d’Ussé’s grounds are bursting with irises and lilacs. In early June, the rose gardens at Château de Chenonceau are in full bloom, with varieties like the classic Roseraie de l’Hay and Madame Hardy showing off their beauty.

Where to STAY IN LOIRE VALLEY

To make the most of your trip, stay in a town that’s central to all the best sights. Amboise is the best option; it’s charming, historic and close to all the best châteaux. Consider these two hotels:

• Le Manoir Saint Thomas (Amboise): A small, historic manor house just a stone’s throw from Château d’Amboise. It’s cozy and elegant, with a lovely garden terrace. 2025 prices 150-240€/night in May.

HOW TO GET THERE

Flying into Paris is easy from the U.S., with direct flights from major cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Miami. Once you’re in Paris, the Loire Valley is just a short train ride away. Hop on the high-speed TGV from Gare Montparnasse, and you’ll be in Tours in just over an hour. The best way to explore at your own pace is renting a car. That way, you can stroll through the countryside, stopping at hidden gems along the way.

• Auberge du Bon Laboureur (Chenonceaux): This lovely place was built in 1786 as postal coach inn just when things were starting to unravel in Paris. Easy access to Château de Chenonceau, this auberge is the perfect spot if you want a mix of rustic charm and gourmet dining. 2025 prices 160-420€/night in May.

WE GOT THIS:

Planning a trip to the Loire Valley is like piecing together a puzzle. There are so many châteaux to choose from, and timing everything to avoid crowds can be tricky. Travellur can handle all the logistics, arrange private tours with our local guides, exclusive wine tastings and reservations at the best restaurants. The perfect itinerary, made just for you, so you can focus on enjoying the experience!

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