Day excursions

We will start our day with Acco Dispo following the Loire river to Amboise, where you will find on the top of a spur of rock, the Royal Chateau of Amboise - which was Francis the 1st’s main residence. With its Gothic and Renaissance styles, the chateau will make you fall in love with its panoramic view on the valley. you must not forget about the St. Hubert’s chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci rests in peace. After the lunch break in the old town, we will go towards the Sologne region in order to visit the Chateau of Cheverny which has been in the same family for more than 600 years. This beautiful classical edifice inspired Hergé’s Marlinspike Hall in ‘The Adventures of Tintin’ comics. We will finish our excursion with the breath taking Chateau of Chambord. Made of more than 400 rooms, 282 fireplaces, as well as more than 70 staircases, including the famous central double helical staircase, it was Francis the 1st’s hunting lodge. This architectural masterpiece is one of the largest Chateau in France, after Versailles. Thus, throughout the day, we will show you the beautiful French countryside landscapes and the Loire and Cher valleys.

Discover the Loire Valley and visit its 2 most prestigious castles in one great day: impressive Château de Chambord and stunning Château de Chenonceau. Learn about the intimate little secrets of the French Kings who once lived there. Enjoy off-the-crowd panoramic views thanks to your local guide, benefit from wealth of thrilling genuine details and funny anecdotes and make the most of this exciting day. Program: 9.30am: Departure from Tours. Meet your friendly guide in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours (just in front of the train station). Everybody's here? Let’s start the day! 9:30am: Start in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours, and get into our minivan, off to Chenonceau! Next step is Château de Chenonceau! On the way, get a good look at lovely privately owned châteaux but also other must-see castles of Loire Valley such as: Cheverny, Chaumont, Amboise, Montrichard... Chenonceau: this is the most visited historical monument in France after Château de Versailles. Admire this stunning chateau and its unique gallery, built on a bridge across the Cher River. With your guide, stroll through the gorgeously-manicured gardens à la Française named after the famous ladies who lived there: "Catherine de Médicis" and "Diane de Poitiers". Once inside, take your time to appreciate the refined architecture and feminine influence that prevails in each room of this renowned chateau, all decorated with beautiful antiques and the most divine fresh flower arrangements. The kitchens, the Queen bedroom, the Gallery... your tour guide will show you all the beautiful rooms of this incredible place. Lunch: Free time More than a chateau, this work of art is a glorious historical place that will take you to the heart of the Loire Valley and the Renaissance era. Your guide will make this trip back in time a fun and captivating experience. He will tell you everything about the history of the castle, built by the famous King François 1er. Unforgettable! Once inside, your guide will select for you the most emblematic rooms to visit: the double helix staircase, the chapel, the terrace...He will also share with you memorable anecdotes and point at hidden details of interest and breathtaking views of the château. So get ready to travel back in time of French Renaissance! After this exceptional visit, your tour-guide will advise you some spots to get a impressive view of the chateau. A spectacular day you will never forget. 5.30pm: Back to the Tourist Office in Tours

One day and 3 châteaux for this excursion by minibus through the emblematic sites of the Loire Valley. Departing from Tours, you will discover the following gardens and châteaux: Blois (visit and lunch: 2h15): a veritable symbol of France's royal history, Blois reveals a fascinating combination of architectural styles, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, while at the same time witnessing the intrigues and events that marked the court of the kings. Chambord (visit & lunch: 2h15): a true jewel of the Renaissance, stands out for its bold architecture and emblematic roofs, while blending harmoniously into an immense forest park that lends it a unique majesty. Cheverny (visit & lunch: 1h): with its elegant white stone facades and vast formal gardens, embodies the refinement of classical architecture and remains a living, breathing place rich in history. Afternoon operated by Touraine Evasion.

We will start our day by visiting the Chateau of Langeais, the oldest forteress of the Loire Valley with its 10th century donjon (keep). Its main facade still has medieval characteristics yet, its opposite part has been renovated in the 16th century, which gives it a Renaissance charm. In 1491, Charles the 7th and Anne of Brittany’s marriage signed the annexation of the Duchy to French kingdom. A collection of tapestry, furniture and objects from the 15th century awaits you there.   We will cross over the Loire river to go to the Chateau of Villandry, known for its French gardens that makes it one of the most beautiful garden in France. It is divided in 3 patios: the 1st one is a mix of vegetables, fruit trees and vines, the 2nd one is made of sculpted bushes, and the last one is a water garden.   After the lunch break, we will continue our memorable day by visiting the Chateau of Chenonceau, also known as the « Ladies’ Chateau » which was embellished by famous women, such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici. This elegant structure built on the river will mesmerize you with its unique Renaissance architecture, furniture and gardens that will make you daydream. We will finish our excursion by visiting the Royal Chateau of Amboise, which was Francis the 1st’s main residence. With its Gothic and Renaissance styles, the chateau will make you fall in love its panoramic view on the valley. And you must not forget about the St. Hubert’s chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci rests in peace.