Loire Valley Castles

These are pictures of some of the most famous Loire Valley Castles, just to give you a taste of what to expect on your trip to the Loire Valley!



For those who have already explored the Loire region, try a blind test and see how many places you can recognize! You may need to come back to refresh your memory!

Most Famous Loire Castles

If you would like to read more about the Northern Loire region, these are the most famous chateaux:

  • Chambord is the biggest and most magnificent - but you couldn't even think about living in this huge, freezing cold castle. 
  • Chenonceau is a place conceived by women, and today is still very well decorated with flowers. Inside there are impressive bouquets and outside you can admire the gorgeous gardens. 
  • Amboise castle has been destroyed and rebuilt during history and we like very much the town itself as well as Leonardo Da Vinci's final dwelling.



If you like gardens... 

Chaumont sur Loire is a must see...as well as Villandry, La Chatonnière or Valmer.

 

Do you like religious art?

There are several abbeys in the Loire Valley that are worth a detour - you can also follow in Saint Martin's footsteps, which will take you from Candes Saint Martin to Tours. 

 

Medieval or Renaissance castles?

If you can't resist medieval castles, you can visit Langeais, Loches' impressive fortress and donjon, Montrichard and Le Rivau.

What's that you say? You are interested in Renaissance architecture? Have you heard of Blois, Tours or Azay le Rideau?

 

Off the beaten tracks Loire Valley castles

Hmmm... so you're more of an off-the-beaten-track traveler and you like to see hidden places... We're pretty sure you won't have heard of Champchevrier, Aubry, Brézé, Candé or l'Islette. All these places have a very fascinating history and one thing's for sure - you won't be bothered by the tourist crowds. 

 

Ok, I understand... you like a little of everything and prefer not to be overwhelmed with French history and castles! We totally understand that and we will be happy to prepare your special trip to the Loire Valley with daily suggested itineraries which include a bit of everything: a castle, a winery, a nice little restaurant and a relaxing stroll through a lovely garden! How about that?

 

Sample of our Best Self-Drive Trips including the Loire Valley

Duration
13 days
Price
US$ 4870
Region
in Loire Valley

Be seduced by France Just For You's very special way of discovering the Loire Valley, its must sees and hidden beauties. In this itinerary, you will experience the "sweet life" in Touraine, stopping over in little villages to savor local goat cheese or taste amazing wines. Take the time to relax in rose gardens, or to enjoy the traditional cuisine in many small restaurants frequented by the locals.

Wine Tasting
Heritage & History
Gourmet Food
Duration
10 days
Price
US$ 3750
Region
in Loire Valley & Normandy

From the Loire Valley castles, the famous village of Mont Saint Michel surrounded by water, the landings beaches and the Norman countryside . . . to end the trip at Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny: you’ll have to keep your eyes wide open!

Heritage & History
Countryside
Duration
13 days
Price
US$ 3830
Region
in Loire Valley & Bordeaux

Uncover every hideaway and detail of the Loire Valley and Bordeaux UNESCO heritage sites. Taste typical regional fo od at your hosts’ table and stay at Bed & Breakfasts with unique atmospheres .

Heritage & History
Towns & Villages
Duration
10 days
Price
US$ 4180
Region
in Paris, Burgundy & Loire Valley

Discover French gastronomy in three regions famous the world over for their food and wines. Burgundy and the Loire Valley are actually arguing about where Coq au Vin was first invented. Burgundy is famous for wine sauce and the Loire Valley for river fish, fruits and goat cheese. And of course Paris is heaven to gourmets! You’ll find the best boulangeries in the world in Paris, and the food markets are amazing.

Wine Tasting
Heritage & History

Our Travelers’ Reviews

Naomi
You may already know from other reviews that "France Just for You" will create an itinerary based on your interests and time frame, booking attractions and lodgings, arranging a car, and providing a detailed guide book with historical and cultural information, and suggestions for things to see and do with your unscheduled time. The whole service is …
Wendy & Ron
We could not be happier. When we first received the guide book and brochures, we thought we would not need them, but they were invaluable! Our first stay with Florence and Phil was especially memorable but really we cannot think of a highlight because it was all wonderful. We will certainly recommend your company to anyone we know travelling to …
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 …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Joe & Beth
From the US
Truffle hunting in Provence
Peter
from Canada
Truffle Hunting in Dordogne
Lucelle & Alan
From South Africa
Meeting their host - Mr le Prince - in a Castle in the Loire Valley
The Loo Family
From Malaysia
At the breakfast table in the Loire Valley
Dina & Jim
from the US
Who just received their travel pack at home
Karen & Ed
from the US
At the restaurant in Giverny
Jill, Wayne & Varenne (the dog)
from the US
Enjoying Mont Saint Michel away from the crowds, Normandy
Stéphanie & Vania
from the US
on the Aiguille du Midi peak in the French Alps (Chamonix)
Jane
from the US
Canoeing down the Dordogne river
Colleen & Russell
from New Zealand
Having Breakfast at the B&B
Muriel & Michael
from the US
In Utah Beach, Normandy
Jane & Ron
From Canada
Visiting the Opéra Garnier, in Paris