Joan of Arc is a widely known historical figure, famous for her ferocity and patriotism to France. Nowadays, she is considered a national heroine. The young girl named La Pucelle (the virgin-warrior) is an example of how the convictions of a simple and illiterate peasant can change the faith of an entire nation.

The Archangel Michael apparently revealed to Joan that she must “drive the English out of France”. Following these divine words, Joan of Arc went to Chinon after her 17th birthday to meet with the Dauphin (the eldest son of the King of France).

joan of arc in chinon loire valley

She convinced the prince (the future Charles VII of France) that she could rescue Orléans from the English invasion during the Hundred Years War.

You may follow Joan of Arc's footsteps in the old city of Chinon, and even find the well onto which she used to step when dismounting her horse.

Under her leadership, as she predicted, the French won against the English on May 7th, 1428. However, a tragic destiny was awaiting her. She was captured and sold to the English in 1430. Accused of witchcraft, she was burned at the stake in Rouen in Normandy at the age of 19. Ever since, she has been an emblematic martyr and was canonized much later in 1920. 

joan of arc in rouen

Our Travelers’ Reviews

Kathy from the US
A Trip "Just for us!' We had an outstanding driving tour through NW France. We got to experience the trip at our own speed focusing on our individual interests. No large groups, tour buses, or strict schedules. It was heavenly! Emilie set us up with four special guides during our trip. Each was passionate about their area of expertise, well spoken …
Naomi
My boyfriend and I spent a week in Paris last month and we decided that we would do a couple of day-tours outside of the city during our trip. We really wanted to avoid the typical tour-bus day-tour and the crowds that come along with these kinds of tours – we wanted something more personalized that would allow us to go at our own pace. I found the …
Elle
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Our Travelers’ Photos

Lorelea, Teresa, Diane & Chris
From the US
With their hostess in Lille, Northern France
Tonya & Robert
From the US
In Versailles - Hall of Mirrors
Theresa & Bill
From the US
Between the vineyards & the lavenders in Provence
David
From the US
Celebrating his 80th birthday at a cooking class in Burgundy
The Khaw Family
From Malaysia
With their guide Raphaelle in Paris with Notre Dame Cathedral in the background.
Bonnie & Steve
from the US
in Provence
Frederick
from Canada
Enjoying some cheese
Susan & Gary
From the US
At the summit of the famous Mont Ventoux in Provence (famous as a mythical step of the Tour de France)
Dennis
from Australia
Hiking in the Dentelles in Provence
Ron, Jane, Don & Nancy
From Canada
Visiting a wine cellar
Leslie & Family
from the US
A la Tour Eiffel, Paris
Fred
from Canada
Truffle hunting in Burgundy with Thierry

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