Château d'Artigny & Spa
Royal Fortress of Chinon
Chenonceau castle
The gardens & château of Villandry
Chambord Castle
Royal Amboise Castle
Langeais Castle
Azay-le-Rideau castle
Montrésor Castle
Royal Estate of Château Gaillard
Vouvray
Chinon
Bourgueil
Domaine Marc Brédif
Domaine Charles Joguet
Traditional boat trip
Traditional Valchantray boat trips
Perraudière Park
Museum of Fine Arts and garden
Saint-Gatien Cathedral
Confectionery Hallard
Parc de la Gloriette
Parc des Prébendes d’Oé
Parc de Forges
Parc du Château de Rochecotte
Les Bateliers du Cher
Les Marins du Port de Chambord
La Rabouilleuse – École de Loire
activity ideas for five days in the Loire Valley
Day 1: Arrival & Château Grandeur
Morning (from Paris): Take a high-speed train (TGV) from Paris to Tours (approximately 1 hour). This is a comfortable and efficient way to start their Loire Valley exploration. Upon arrival in Tours, a private transfer can take them directly to Château d’Artigny in Montbazon (around 20 minutes).
Afternoon: Settle into the magnificent Château d’Artigny and take some time to explore its elegant surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the gardens or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this beautiful estate.
Day 2: Chenonceau’s Charm & Amboise’s Royal History
Morning: Visit the iconic Château de Chenonceau, often called the “Ladies’ Château.” Its unique and graceful architecture spanning the River Cher is a highlight of the Loire Valley. Explore the richly furnished rooms and learn about the influential women who shaped its history.
Afternoon: Discover the Royal Château of Amboise. This château has a rich history as a royal residence and is also the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci. Explore its impressive architecture and enjoy the panoramic views of the Loire River and the charming town below.
Day 3: Da Vinci’s World & Vouvray Wines
Morning: Immerse yourselves in the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci at Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise, his last home. Explore his workshop, see models of his inventions, and wander through the beautiful gardens that inspired him.
Afternoon: Experience the renowned Vouvray wine region. Enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at a local cave (wine cellar). Learn about the unique Chenin Blanc grape and the production of the region’s sparkling and still white wines.
Day 4: Chambord’s Majesty & Cheverny’s Elegance
Morning: Visit the grand Château de Chambord, the largest château in the Loire Valley. Its distinctive French Renaissance architecture, including the remarkable double helix staircase, is truly impressive. Explore its vast interiors and imagine the royal hunts that once took place in the surrounding forest.
Afternoon: Discover the elegant Château de Cheverny, which inspired Marlinspike Hall in the Tintin comics. Admire its well-preserved interiors and explore its extensive grounds and gardens. Consider a visit to the kennels to see the hounds.
Day 5: Gardens & Local Flavors before Departure
Morning: Explore the stunning Renaissance gardens of Château de Villandry. These meticulously designed gardens, including the ornamental vegetable garden, flower gardens, and water garden, offer a beautiful and tranquil experience.
Afternoon: Depending on their train schedule back to Paris, enjoy some local flavors. This could involve visiting a local market town like Tours or Amboise for some regional specialties or enjoying a final leisurely lunch at a traditional restaurant before their transfer back to the train station.
The Château d’Artigny Journey
Château d’Artigny beautifully combines luxury, heritage, and natural allure. Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, it offers a serene getaway just a short distance from Paris. With its elegant accommodations, fine dining, and breathtaking views, this château provides an unforgettable experience, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration.