Top 5 Family Destinations in Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley provides the visitor with a haven of scenic attractions, historical castles, and unprecedented scenery unlike anywhere else in France and quite possibly all of Western Europe.

It is referred to as the “Garden of France” and for good reason. This is nothing less than an enchanted area where flowers, green rolling hills, and vineyards are the norm, as well as a landscape that is populated with over a thousand chateaus set within the picturesque countryside.

The charm of the serene lifestyles that exist within the valley setting is what holds a majority of the allure that this region is comprised of, hence its popularity as a popular holiday and vacation destination. Poets and writers alike have been inspired by the area for centuries, and it will take you back through time as you venture through the Loire Valley environment on your travel adventure. The following then, is a listing of the must-see cities within this valley that you should be sure to visit on your journey.

1. Chartres

Rodin referred to the world renowned Cathedral of Chartres as the “Acropolis of France” and it is a spectacular site to behold steeped in medieval architecture. Chartres‘ “Old Town” is a colorful conglomeration of cobblestone streets, gabled homes, and quaint footbridges.

2. Orleans

Once the second largest French city, Orleans is referred to as the “vinegar capital of the world.” Joan of Arc helped to liberate the city from the British in 1429 and every May, there is a celebratory event to commemorate her accomplishment where you have an opportunity to visit the house that was her residence during the 10-day siege.

3. Chambord

Home of the largest castle in the Loire Valley, grounds are surrounded by a hunting preserve and an immense park which is accessible via a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride. The legendary Château of Cheverny is located nearby and the visitor is afforded a choice of two views of this beautiful structure – either via a walking tour of the chateaux and its grounds, or by virtue of a hot air balloon ride which you can hire right on the site.

4. Tours

The junction of the Cher and Loire Rivers serves as the backdrop for the village of Tours, a busy college town and the usual jumping-off point for venturing through the Loire Valley. This was one of Europe’s greatest sites for pilgrimages during the middle ages and today it boasts wonderful neo-classical and Renaissance mansions.

5. Amboise and Chenonceaux

Amboise is a 15th century city that is nestled under the royal castle’s shadow as well as being a colorfully attractive town populated with houses made of white stone from that period in time. The visitor will also be afforded with picturesque views of the Cher River.

Photo of the Château de Chenonceaux originally posted by Michael Clarke

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Tags:  family, France, Loire Valley

About the author

Anita Choudhary is a freelance writer and travel blogger based in New Delhi, India. She loves to travel and has traveled extensively in India. Exploring new places, reading and writing are her hobbies.