The Loire Valley

Day 1 Early morning departure to journey to Dover for the ferry to France and onto the hotel for a four night stay.

Days 2 to 4 We have included the following excursions:

• Today travel to the nearby capital of the region, Tours. Free time to explore this delightful town with its impressive old town by the river, beautiful, tree-lined squares with half-timbered houses, narrow winding streets, churches and excellent shopping, there is plenty to enjoy. Onwards to Chateau du Rivau. Here enjoy an included lunch with a glass of wine and a guided tour, after which have some time to enjoy the wonderful gardens at leisure.

• Enjoy a day at leisure in Amboise today. Explore the charming town, wander the small streets and marvel at the Troglodyte cave dwellings that have been turned into houses and wine cellars. You may like to try some local wine or visit the Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years, or the Château d’Amboise, a residence for French kings from the 15th to 19th centuries.

• Journey to Chisseaux this morning and board a relaxing River Cher cruise. Sit back and admire the flora and fauna on this circular cruise, discovering the history of the river, its dams and surrounding vineyards. You can also view perhaps the most impressive of all the châteaux, Chenonceau, from the water. With a dramatic history of intrigue, the Château de Chenonceau is possibly most famous for its connection with the French royal family and Catherine de Medici. Its dramatic position spanning the River Cher also makes it one of the most iconic locations in the whole of France. After the cruise, enjoy entrance to the château and its gardens.

Day 5 After breakfast, travel back to Calais for the return ferry to Dover and the journey home.

• Coach travel
• Return ferry crossings
• 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast
• Entrance & guided tour of Château du Rivau
• Lunch with wine at Château du Rivau
• Circular cruise on the River Cher
• Entrance to Château de Chenonceau
• City tax