Join us as we delve into the French way of life in this fascinating region of Western France. Historic Châteaux, vineyards galore, and some of the most charming and authentic towns and villages await.
Welcome to the Loire Valley!
Day One
Departing South Wales in the early morning hours (all pick ups should take place between 3am and 6am), we head to Southeast England before taking a lunchtime ferry crossing to northern France. From here, it's a short drive to our first overnight stop, the city of St Quentin, where we will have breakfast included.
Day Two
After breakfast, we continue our journey through the heart of France, stopping off at the Château de Chenonceau. Its perfectly preserved rooms, art collections, and incredible floral gardens make it a magical place to visit.
From here it's on to our base for the next four nights, the Novotel Amboise hotel. Here, you'll enjoy evening meals and breakfast, and have the opportunity to use the hotel's facilities, including a swimming pool, mini golf, and tennis court.
Day Three - Tours & Vineyard
We start our day with a visit to the nearby riverside City of Tours. This beautiful, vibrant place is home to the historic quarter, with its half-timbered architecture and bustling Place Plumereau, perfect for a refreshment before moving on that afternoon.
No visit to the Loire Valley would be complete without a visit to a local winery. Here you'll get to sample the local tipple and learn about the region's famous wines.
Day Four - Free in Amboise
Today is your chance to relax and unwind or explore the heart of the nearby town of Amboise.
Best known for its historic connections to the French monarchy and the Renaissance, as the childhood home of Charles VIII and the final resting place of Leonardo Da Vinci, Amboise has some spectacular architecture and some of the finest restaurants in France!
Bistros, cafés, patisseries, and wine-tasting venues will keep you refreshed, while the Châteaux Du Clos Lucé (and others! ) can be visited if you need another Château fix!
Day Five- Château Chambord & Blois
Today, we begin at Château Chambord. Chambord is the largest and most lavish of all the Châteaux, a showpiece of Renaissance architecture. With 426 rooms, 286 fireplaces, and 77 fireplaces, the scale is incredible!
Expect a world-famous double helix staircase ( Da Vinci??..), royal bedchambers, and a rooftop with views across the grounds.
From here it's a short drive into Blois. This beautiful town has character-filled streets whose architecture complements its fabulous heritage. From the Saint-Louis Cathedral to some fantastic museums, it's no wonder Blois was tagged the 'City of Art & History'. With a dizzying array of places to grab a spot of lunch alongside the River, it's a great place to stop before returning to the hotel.
Day Six - Versailles
It's time to leave the Loire and head north before arriving at the royal town of Versailles. Famed for its palace, the city has the widest avenue in France, its markets and boutiques, and many sweet treats!
We include entry to the Palace Gardens, but if you wish to book tickets to the palace, please get in touch with us for advice on arrival and departure.
From here, we head back to our overnight stop in the heart of St Quentin, where breakfast is included.
Day Seven
Our French adventure must sadly end as we return to Calais and cross back to the UK, arriving home late that evening.
We have a number of pick up points available for this break as shown below...
The following room types are available at the hotel:
