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Tourism in the heart of the Loire Valley

The heart of the Loire Valley is a region both lively and welcoming, just a two-hour drive from Paris. Its architectural and natural heritage promises a memorable stay, and while the castles are its headline attractions, the gastronomy that local people take such pride in is worth every detour. Here, history, nature, and the pleasures of the table meet along the water.

Castles along the river

From Chambord to Chenonceau, and not forgetting Clos Lucé, the residence and final home of Leonardo da Vinci, the châteaux of the Loire are among those sights no visitor should miss. You need only follow France's longest river, the Loire, to reach these exceptional monuments, living testaments to the French Renaissance. The sharpest eyes, especially those familiar with comic books, will spot the striking resemblance between the Château de Cheverny and the fictional Château de Moulinsart in The Adventures of Tintin, a detail that never fails to delight.

History and gardens

 

To visit any of the Loire châteaux is to step into the history of France, and to uncover the fascinating stories of the kings, queens, and princesses who once walked their halls. On a greener note, gardens that have flourished for several centuries are just as unmissable, masterpieces of design that shift and bloom with the seasons. A stroll through them is a pleasure, at the gentle pace the setting invites.

Wines and events

 

The Loire Valley can take pride in its remarkable wine production. Its wines enjoy an excellent reputation and are sought after by some of the finest tables, with 50 different appellations, whites, reds, rosés, and even sparkling, all cultivated near the river. Most cellars welcome visitors and offer tastings, to be enjoyed in moderation, while throughout the year a wealth of events invite locals and travelers alike to share in the region's cultural heritage. It is an invitation to savor the valley slowly, glass in hand and curiosity awake.

Good to know

  • The region lies about a two-hour drive from Paris.
  • The Château de Cheverny inspired the fictional Moulinsart in The Adventures of Tintin.
  • The Loire Valley has 50 wine appellations, with most cellars open for tastings.

Discover the Loire Valley Castles

EXTIME TRAVEL
All day at your leisure to discover the Loire Valley castles from Paris

Starting at: 90,00€ /pers.

EXTIME TRAVEL
All day audio guided tour of the Loire Valley castles from Paris

Starting at: 110,00€ /pers.

EXTIME TRAVEL
All day guided tour of the Loire Valley castles from Paris

Starting at: 120,00€ /pers.

EXTIME TRAVEL
2 Days guided Mont Saint Michel and Loire Valley castles from Paris

Starting at: 475,00€ /pers.

EXTIME TRAVEL
3 Days guided Normandy, Mont Saint Michel, Loire valley castles from Paris

Starting at: 720,00€ /pers.

Frequently asked questions

How far is the heart of the Loire Valley from Paris?

It is a lively and appealing region located only about a two-hour drive from Paris.

Which castle resembles Moulinsart from Tintin?

The Château de Cheverny, whose striking resemblance to the fictional Château de Moulinsart is noticed especially by readers of comic books.

What are the Loire Valley wines like?

They enjoy an excellent reputation, with 50 different appellations, whites, reds, rosés, and sparkling, cultivated near the river, and most cellars offer tastings.