Day excursions

Departing from the Tourist Office in Tours, set off in an 8-seater minibus for an excursion including 3 visits. THE CASTLE OF BLOIS. One of the most prestigious testimonies of Renaissance art in France, a perfect illustration of the evolution of French architecture from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. After discovering the courtyard and its famous spiral staircase, built at the time of François 1er, you can discover the residence of Catherine de Médicis and Henri III, which was the scene of the assassination of the Duke de Guise and the Gaston d'Orléans wing designed by François Mansart. Lunch in a restaurant in Blois. THE CASTLE OF CHAMBORD. More than 5 centuries after its construction, it still defies the imagination: 156 meters of facade, 56 meters high, 440 rooms... It is the dream come true of a young 25-year-old king: François I, who wanted to build the most sumptuous hunting rendezvous that history has bequeathed to us. CHÂTEAU DE CHEVERNY, which served as a model for Hergé to design Moulinsart, will surprise you with the richness and density of its furniture and the authentic and refined charm of its decoration. The Domaine de Cheverny belongs to the Hurault family, great figures and advisers to Kings Louis XII, François I, Henri III and Henri IV. This excursion is available on saturday from April to November. Depending on the programming of the minibuses, the program is likely to be modified. Departure is guaranteed from 4 people, a refund will be made if the number is not reached

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.

The day will begin with a visit to Château de Chenonceau, a historic gem spanning the Cher River, surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers. You will then have free time for lunch in Amboise (not included), before visiting the Clos Lucé, the residence of Leonardo da Vinci. Finally, you'll explore the prestigious Château Royal d'Amboise, a royal retreat and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.   Our team will accompany you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.   After this fascinating day, Val de Loire Travel will return you to your departure point (your accomodation or the Tourist Office).

Our team will accompany you to visit the Fontevraud Abbey, an exceptional Bourgueil winery, and Villandry (castle & gardens) aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, exclusively for you! Your quest for authenticity will begin with a visit to the royal Fontevraud Abbey. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it continues the ideal city vision set by its founder, Robert d’Arbrissel. In the Bourgueil wine region, you will have the privilege of enjoying lunch amidst the vines in the only picnic barrel in France, in an enchanting setting. The meal will be made from local seasonal products and paired with organic wine from the estate. The highlight of the day will be the visit to the Château de Villandry, and especially its gardens, some of the most renowned and appreciated in France. Return approximately at 6:00 PM.