Loire Valley – amazingly picturesque piece of land in the center of France – widely known for its magnificent historic cities, vineyards and castles. In addition, her beautiful cascading green hills and a tranquil landscape made her ideal muse for many love writers, artists or poets. Some of its parts have been declared the object of the World UNESCO heritage site in 2000, and its timeless natural beauty really brought her the nickname “garden of France”.
With origins from the Middle Paleolithic period, Valley The Loire boasts some of the most charming cities and architectural monuments in Europe such as Amboise, Blois, Saumur, Turi has wonderful castles, including Chambord and Chenonceau. Wherever you are not turned, you will be reminded of the artistic influence of the era Renaissance and Enlightenment. Indeed, visiting these places it looks like a historic journey back to a simpler but aesthetically attractive time period.
Historical landscape
At the beginning of the 15th century, young Jeanne d’Arc led the French troops in a number of important battles, which eventually led to the defeat British in the war for full control over this region. Even before of how this happened, the Loire Valley was desired by the kings and queens from the 10th century. This is not surprising, since this exquisite the valley is surrounded by the river Loire – the longest river of France – and It is abundant in lush green forests, rich in fertile land and It has an ideal climate for collecting wine.
As was customary at that time, only royal power, nobility and wealthy citizens could afford the luxury higher education in art and in cultural activities. The best artists, historians, architects and writers of the time, where often invited to enhance the courtly art print. Of these honored guests are the famous artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci was so intrigued by this wonderful place by the invitation of the king that in 1516 he founded a residence in the city Amboise and stayed there until his death in 1519 His home – Le Clos-Luce – eventually turned into a museum dedicated to the genius of the works of this man. In this beautiful The city also has an attractive castle and museum dedicated to mail service history.
Another city worth visiting because of its unique landscape and historical significance – Blois Renaissance Castle – Castle Blois – was once the home of King Louis XVII in the center cities. The city itself was built on a steep hill with winding paths that end with long stairs at different points, making it the most interesting place to explore. Funny landmark found in Blois – La Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin (house of the wizard Robert-Goudin) – the only public museum in France dedicated exclusively to magic and performing arts.
City Tour also deserves mentions. Known for its charming medieval old the city, the cathedral of the XII century and the difference that it is a city with the purest form of French, Tours boast a more vibrant atmosphere than most other cities in the Loire Valley. Any day, the main square – Place Plumereau – animated by the noisy sounds of visitors in many cafes, bars and restaurants in the open.
Fascinating Castles
With over 300 castles in the Loire Valley, you can feel yourself a bit confused in determining which ones should visit for a short stay in the region. Although all locks have their own uniqueness that makes them special to visit by individual visitors, three that really stand out: Chambord, Azay-le-Rideau and Chenonceau.
One of the region’s oldest castles, Azay-le-Rideau was named after the Lord Riedel, who decided to build a fortress on an island protected by Dear, leading travelers from Tour to Chinon, at the end of the 12th century. King Francois I upgraded him by employing the best French and Italian masters – architects and designers in addition of time. By the early 1500s, the castle was bought by the Minister of Finance France as a gift for his son. Young man fast ordered repairs, giving the castle a curious shape “L”, which he keeps to this day – suggesting the essence of the majestic French castle in combination with the Italian Palazzo. Today visitors can take a look at the privileged life of the royal family, wandering through its open spaces, including the living room, the library and the master bedroom are all decorated with refurbished furniture and bright original tapestries.
Located in a small village Chenonceau seemingly floating on underwater arches. The magnificent castle of Chenonceau – perhaps the most Romantic castle in the Loire Valley. Known as the “six ladies Castles “- for his famous residents, including the queen, mistress and colorful ladies of society, this beautiful castle is historical miracle. We strongly recommend that you order guide to this particular castle to fully appreciate fascinating stories related to his attractive female residents.
Today, Chenonceaux ranks second after Versailles, becoming the most visited castle in France.
If time allows you to visit only one castle, then Chambord will give you a better idea of luxury castles of the 16th century, featuring at least 440 rooms! This a huge castle located deep in the forest was first built as a summer lounge and hunting grounds for king francois I. He intentionally instructed him to build it so large that remind citizens of the power of the court. Despite the fact that the castle was not completed in life, it is a royal reminder of unlimited power of the French crown at that time. Today the castle grounds serve as a hunting reserve and national park, as well as the feudal castle museum with four towers, central dungeon and three magnificent floors, which You can climb the winding stairs.
When visiting any of the castles of the Loire Valley, it is important to watch out for opening time, which changes seasonally, and know that no Food, drinks or camera flashes are not allowed inside.
Wineries and restaurants
Thanks to its pleasant climate and the aforementioned fertile lands, the Loire Valley enjoys an abundance of fresh produce, fruits, dairy products and high-quality wines and liqueurs. As in many other regions of the world, each city is known for its delicacies. For example, Solar Tours produce delicious plums and melon, shady Touraine boasts beautiful mushrooms and Asparagus, while Orleans is known for poultry grown on its extensive farmland.
Since the Loire Valley is located in the north of France, its best wine areas are located on the slopes facing south. Some of The best wines in the country, including Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé, come from here. Villages with exceptional sparkling wines include Montluis, Saumur and Woerne.
Visiting wineries in the Loire Valley is often as easy as contact them and make an appointment. Wine tasting in this parts of France are a leisurely experience, and wine is often combined with regional cheeses or other tasty slices. Insofar as There are many different types of wine from different areas – such as red from Chinon, white from Angers and sweet wines from Vouvrey- need either look for wineries in their preferred area that can be open to visitors or consult with expert guides who can accompany you on several wineries for several days. Rent this type of service can save you a lot of good time and energy, since There are a huge number of wineries to choose from. One such a company with over 25 years of experience in the Loire Valley is called Le Tasting Room. They can organize a day at a specific wine. factories or conduct an introductory wine tasting of the entire region to give you an idea of what is offered.
Those interested can enjoy exceptional traditional cuisine. in an elegant but cozy setting, you can book a hotel room 1 * Michelin Le Bon Laboureur in Chenonceux. In addition to the inexpensive menu 3-course, this small hotel-restaurant offers a large a selection of cheese and desserts, as well as a selection of the best wines of the region.
If you prefer french food with more modern tasteful, try Les Linottes Gourmandes on Tour. This restaurant, located in the heart of the Old Town, this restaurant has a marvelous selection of dishes like foie gras de canar, (duck pate of liver) and Noix de Saint-Jacques (scallops) and knowledgeable, benevolent staff.
For a truly wonderful dining experience, book a table at L’Orangerie du Château de Blois, a refined restaurant in all senses: a kitchen-oasis of creatively combined flavors – the presentation of the dishes is impeccable and the service is amazing. It is better just choose a tasting menu, and then sit back and enjoy the adventure.
Where to stay for a while
The decision about where to stay in the Loire Valley depends on the route you choose for yourself and of course the time which you plan to stay in this region. A good option, if you are looking for a charming place right outside the Tour with an easy access to the rest of the region is Domaine de la Tortiniere , a former castle with 24 rooms (some rooms located behind outside the castle), turned into a 4 * hotel. Environment serene and relaxing, with a beautiful park and terrace – on reasonable distance from the castles of Azay-le-dito and Chenonceaux, as well as Montluis or Vouvray wine regions. For more comfortable stay in Chinon try Hotel Diderot, the divine mini-mansion with clean, tastefully decorated rooms, beautiful courtyard and garden, as well as a welcome croissant, homemade jam and fresh juice.
For budget travelers wishing to see The Loire Valley by car or bike, the best choice would be Cote-Loire Coy Ligeren in the beautiful city of Blois. This small inconspicuous hotel has comfortable rooms near river and is located just a few minutes from the castle of the city.
Road
Because of its close proximity to Paris, visiting the valley Loire can be anything from fast-paced day trip and ending with an extended visit to fully discover the region. If you are in limited time, order a bus from Paris that can take you on a tour to visit 3-4 castles in total in a day. Prices for these services start at 150 euros per person If you are an adventure type, rent a car. and spend 2.5-3 hours into the Loire Valley on your own and explore region in its own way, as you like. Expect to pay a minimum 30 euro per way, plus rental price car. To really dip in this region, take TGV (fast train) from Paris to Tours in only 35 minutes and then take the local transport to get to the locks from there. AT alternatively, take the train from Paris to Blois, which takes you there in about 1. 5 hours – and start your travel to this charming little town. The prices of these trains vary, but usually start from 45 euros to one the side.
One interesting way to explore this area is to travelers with a little time – commit bicycle tour. Cycling is a fun and relaxed way. Discover the enchanting scenery of the Loire Valley. Company BikeToursDirect offers independent valley walks Loire, whose length varies from 5 days to two weeks. Orleans in Angers is a popular route that runs throughout the valley and takes about 9 days at a leisurely pace.
Whatever you decide, it is advisable to visit the Loire Valley in during the spring months (March-May), when the sun shines, plus the flowers and gorgeous landscapes in full bloom — or early autumn months of September and October – during the harvest season, when the weather is still mild and the foliage changes abruptly to warm chestnut and yellow tones.
The Loire Valley is the perfect playground for kings and queens in for several centuries – comes alive again with each new a visitor who is seduced by his charming beauty. There is no doubt that a lot of things can be seen and impressed by this. a great region that later you will remember and dream about when will you be able to return here. How long would you decide stay here, of course, that this will be the experience that you always will appreciate.
Posted by: Jessica Benavides Canepa
Interesting
