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| Day 1 : Arrival in AMBOISE
Welcome to the Loire! Depending on your arrival time, the centre of the town is charming, and you’ll enjoy exploring it this evening before your dinner.
Day 2 : Visit of Amboise
Amboise with its rich cultural heritage deserves some time for exploration. This morning, visit the royal château that sits on the banks of the Loire, the first château built in the renaissance style. Also take the time to visit the château of Clos Luce, where Leonardo de Vinci lived, the Town Hall Museum and the Louis XVI-styled pagoda, - the only remnants of the sumptuous home of the Duc de Choiseul.
Day 3 : Chenenceau and Vouvray to Tours 12 km
Transfer to Chenonceau Built on the river Cher, the unique architecture of this chateau is reflected in the mirror-like water. Chenonceau is one the most beautiful chateau in Loire valley, owing a large part of its charm to women: it was built in 1513 by Katherine Briçonnet, and made even more attractive by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis, both competing for the love of the same King. Early afternoon transfer to Vouvray The village is known for its natural and sparkling white wines, which are recognized as among the best of Touraine. You will also see a few of the remaining troglodytic dwellings nestled into the hillsides. Cross through the vineyards and pass the château of Montcontour, before returning to the banks of the Loire, and on to Tours.
Day 4 : Visit of Tours
Transfer to the Priory of Saint Côme. This pretty priory was once the dwelling place of Ronsard, one of the greatest French poets of the Renaissance. After your visit, follow the Loire back into the historic centre of Tours for time to explore the neighbourhood around the Place Plumereau, the cathedral and Saint Julien Church. Some of the wonderful old homes and mansions, each one more beautiful than the last, are now home to museums, such as the Musee des Beaux-Arts and the Musee du Compagnonnage. Afternoon in the city of Tours!
Day 5 : Villandry to Langeais 14 km
Transfer to Villandry. This château holds a collection of treasures, such as a variety of Spanish paintings, 18th century furniture, and – most notably – the renowned Renaissance gardens. Five magnificent gardens await you: the vegetable garden, the garden of fountains, the ornamental garden, the garden of medicinal plants, and the labyrinth. The walk then follows the banks of the Cher and Loire rivers on to Langeais, with its imposing 15th century fortress and a 10th century keep. Dinner included tonight.
Day 6 : Sache to Azay le Rideau 15 km
Transfer to Sache. The 16th century chateau, surrounded by a pleasant park, holds a museum dedicated to the famous 18th century French writer Balzac, who came here often to escape his creditors and find the tranquility necessary for writing. Make your way towards Villaines-les-Rochers, with its wicker artists, and continue on to Azay-le-Rideau. Here, you will find one of the most beautiful Renaissance chateaux of the Loire valley, with its interior staircase - a masterpiece of its kind. Dinner included tonight.
Day 7 : Departure
After breakfast transfer by taxi to the train station of Azay (train or bus to Tours). |