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

5.0
(250+ reviews)
See us on Trip Advisor
See us on Google
Robert
Everything you need and things you didn’t know you needed. Emilie is very kind, a good soul. And don’t you want the people who handle your holidays to radiate happiness? A happy itinerary = a lovely journey!
Roger
For my wife and me, Emilie planned three weeks of wonderful experiences. She was quick to respond to questions and crafted an itinerary which suited us. The selection of places to see, things to do, and where to eat were superb. Emilie added a charming personal touch. As it was our 30-year anniversary, she arranged for an accommodation to welcome …
Susan
This was a wonderful way to travel in France! Our tours were wonderful and the guidebook was very helpful. Each day we had suggestions of things to do and we loved every suggestion! Our car and our accommodations were first class. Having the french phone made travel easy since we could use Waze and Google Maps. If we return to France, we will …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Tonia & Peter
from Canada
at the Louvre Museum in Paris
Dan & Kim
From the US
Romantic time in Paris...
Ray & Jane
From Australia
On the French Riviera
Georgia & Matt from Australia
Cooking fresh stawberries from Carpentras in Provence
Greg, Laurie, Laura & Jeff
From the US
With their B&B host near Mont Saint Michel
Patty
from the US
In Villeneuve les Avignon, Provence
The Miller Family
From the US
At the final games for the Women Fifa Worldcup in Lyon
Teresa & Jim
From Australia
In the Basque Country
Hee Leng, Xin Yu and Swee Ming
From Singapoure
Visiting the Opera Garnier in Paris
The Ko Family
from Korea
on the French Riviera
Jane
from the US
Canoeing down the Dordogne river
Ron
From the US
Cycling in the Loire Valley vineyards
View all pictures

Last Blog Articles