The Loire and its castles

Tourists from all over the world recognize its richness whether it is architectural, gastronomic or oenological. Each village tells a part of our History, kings have settled year after year and have paid homage to this region by building, modifying and embellishing the castles of their ancestors.

A region classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

This year we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the region’s entry into the UNESCO World Heritage List. The recognition by this institution of the works and the beauty of its landscapes. Nature is omnipresent, the Loire is the central element but all around the fauna and flora develop according to the river.

Our History

There are about fifty castles to choose from. Some more famous than others, worldwide! Chambord, Chenonceaux, Chinon, names known to all. Kings and queens have succeeded one another, torn apart but have left behind a multitude of proofs of their passages. With each visit you will be able to see the evolution of our society, tastes, styles and learn more about our past. The gardens will amaze you by their styles but above all their richness. Everything is done today so that each member of the family can follow his or her desires. Guided tours, treasure hunts, puzzles, there are so many ways to learn while having fun! Some castles, more intimate, often private, offer new perspectives. Like the castle of Brézé and its miles of incredibly well-preserved troglodyte galleries.
Let yourself be surprised at the bend of a village by its charming little church, its tufa stone houses or its still wild Loire riverside. Prepare yourself for a trip to the heart of a rich history that other nations envy us. We are an ancient people, our history is full of twists and turns and has left its mark.

An architecture, a History but also wine!

Wine is also at the centre of the region. You will see the vineyards that give the world famous appellations all along the Loire. Vouvray, chinon, Bourgueil, Mont Louis! The best remains the tasting of these marvellous wines, hundreds of wine growers open their doors to you to make you discover and taste the fruit of their work. Whether sparkling, white or red, let yourself be surprised by the diversity of flavours. Take the time to discover the different grape varieties directly in the troglodyte cellars and let the winegrowers tell you their stories. The guinguettes on the banks of the Loire will offer you a moment of relaxation at sunset with a glass in your hand!

The Loire by bike

One of the most beautiful cycle routes in France! More than 200 km along the banks of the Loire to cycle at your own pace, from nature to castles and from villages to vineyards. The most ? It is accessible to all! Most of the roads are flat, without great difficulties and above all very well signposted. The whole family will be able to enjoy the riches of the Touraine region, no need to set foot on the ground, the circuit is safe.

I prefer walking

The GR3 follows the Loire from its source at Mont Gerbier de Jonc to its mouth at La Baule. It is marked by the presence of the majority of the Loire castles but also passes through the great places of Touraine such as the city of Tours and its sublime historic centre. We regularly depart from it to make you discover our favourite places, unique points of view or lush nature. We do our utmost to show you the best that Touraine has to offer.

By car!

The banks of the Loire are just as pleasant by car. Visible from the road, you will see in the distance the castles rise up and dominate superb villages. You will be free to stop and admire them before crossing the bridge to reach the old quarters and their narrow streets. The car is a very good alternative for those who wish to see more in less time!

Whether by bike, on foot or by car, for a long weekend or for several days, the Sentiers de France team is proud to be able to offer you a circuit that suits your image. We know this region well since our team lives there. Every year we discover or rediscover these places, as a team or as a family and enrich our circuits as we go along our peregrinations. We can testify to the sweetness of life in Touraine, the richness of its gastronomy and the flavour of its wines. Join us !

Our cycling tours along the Loire
Our walking tours
Our driving tours

You can book at any time, we remain at your disposal to organize your stay. No precise dates yet? You can book today and give us your dates later. Do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at info@sentiersdefrance.com