Loire Valley Walking Tour

This morning, our local guide will meet you at your hotel where you will have your orientation meeting. Then we will transfer you to one of the most recognizable Chateaux in France: Chateau de Chambord. You can visit the Chateau, walk around in the park, and then start your hike from Chambord to Bracieux through the forest. Stay in a charming hotel in Bracieux.

Chateau de Chambord: is one of the most recognizable castles in the world because of its very distinct French Renaissance architecture that blends traditional medieval forms with classical Italian structures. One of the architectural highlights is the spectacular double-helix open staircase that is the centerpiece of the castle. The two helices ascend the three floors without ever meeting, illuminated from above by a sort of light house at the highest point of the castle. There are suggestions that Leonardo da Vinci may have designed the staircase, but this has not been confirmed.

 This hike will take you to Cheverny, another famous town because of its Chateau. The Chateau de Cheverny is an original jewel among the more famous monuments that stretch along the Loire Valley. The Renaissance style did not find its place in Cheverny, which is built in the purest Louis XIII style, distinguished by an extraordinarily symmetrical architecture.

Cheverny is primarily known for being an inspiration to Hergé, cartoonist and author of Tintin, who drew the castle in his comics as the Chateau de Moulinsart, home to Captain Haddock.

We transfer you at 3pm to your hotel in Ouchamps.

 In the morning, start your hike from the hotel and cross Chaumont sur Loire village rich in history and a perfect place for walking along the riverbanks. Each year the International Garden Festival is held in the castle park. Chaumont sur Loire is also known for its feudal castle dominating the valley.

After your visit of Chaumont, we will transfer you to Amboise, where you will stay tonight. Amboise has a lot to offer and plenty to visit: The Royal Castle, which introduced Italian-style architecture in the 15h and 16th centuries; Clos Luce: last residence of Leonardo Da Vinci, where you can see some of his many projects in different fields.

 You have 2 hiking possibilities today to discover Amboise in details. Amboise has a lot to offer and plenty to visit: The Royal Castle, which introduced Italian-style architecture in the 15h and 16th centuries; Clos Luce: last residence of Leonardo Da Vinci, where you can see some of his many projects in different fields. 

Start walking in the forest of Amboise and through farm villages. Then continue your walk to the Cher River and the famous Chateau of Chenonceau, built by Henry II in the 16th century over the Cher River; and then improved by Catherine de Medicis.

A gourmet dinner awaits you at your hotel tonight!

 Departure after breakfast, you can take your time. Additional nights can be arranged. Transfer back to Saint Pierre des Corps, Tours TGV station, is on your own.