Highlights Of The Loire Valley
- Duration: 5 days
- Board Basis: Mixed Board
- Tour Ref: D2TCRO9184
Holiday Summary
- Travel Type: Coach
5 days
Highlights of the Loire Valley | Crosskeys Short Break
Join us on this enchanting tour of the Loire Valley, the land of stunning fairy tale châteaux, fine wines and spectacular scenery. Our fabulous itinerary takes in some of the finest highlights of the region, including wine tasting, a delightful lunch at the medieval Château du Rivau as well as visit to the dramatic Château de Chenonceau, spanning the River Cher.
PLEASE NOTE: Price is per person and based on two people sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements and upgrades are not included.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1: We arrive at our beautiful hotel, located in the hills of Amboise, in time for dinner.
Day 2: Today we travel to the nearby capital of the region, Tours, where we have free time at leisure to explore this delightful town. Strolling through this well-preserved city you will discover a strong cultural heritage with half-timbered houses, narrow winding streets and churches as well as excellent shopping. With its impressive old town by the river, beautiful, tree-lined squares packed with cafes, bars and restaurants, it is also the perfect destination to switch off from it all and watch the world go by in the summer sun. We then make our way to the Château du Rivau, one of the oldest castles in the Loire valley, built in the 15th century. We will enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch and a guided tour followed by some free time to enjoy the wonderful gardens at leisure. We finish our visit with a tasting of three delicious wines, the perfect end to a magnificent day.
Day 3: We enjoy a day at leisure in Amboise today, exploring the charming town where our hotel is based. With its grand chateau and medieval old town, peppered with half-timbered buildings, step back in time and immerse yourself in Amboise’s opulent past of pageantry, feasting and splendour. Wander the small streets of the town centre and marvel at the Troglodyte cave dwellings, some of France’s most remarkable sights, carved into the cliff side and turned into houses and wine cellars. Perhaps try some local wine and 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.
Day 4: We make our way to Chisseaux this morning and board our relaxing River Cher cruise. Sit back and admire the stunning flora and fauna on this circular cruise, discovering the history of the river, its dams and surrounding vineyards. We also view perhaps the most impressive of all the châteaux, Chenonceau, from the water. With a dramatic history of intrigue, the Château de Chenonceau wonderfully embodies the elegance of the 16th century Renaissance chateau and 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 France. After our cruise, we enjoy entrance to this majestic château and its gardens in all its grandeur.
Day 5: After breakfast this morning. we begin our journey home.
Novotel, Amboise, Loire Valley
Novotel, Amboise, Loire Valley Back to topAccommodation
Novotel, Amboise, Loire Valley Novotel, Amboise, Loire Valley
This 4 star hotel is located on the outskirts of the riverside town of Amboise in an elevated, tranquil setting. From the hotel’s terrace you can enjoy impressive views of Château d’Amboise and the beautiful Loire countryside.
All rooms are en-suite with TV, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. Leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool and outdoor terrace.