Loire Valley

Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley is located in the central part of France and a scenic drive through the Loire Valley, France can easily be done in a few hours or you can make the most of your time here by setting aside at least a weekend or a week. The more time you have to explore this area, the more you will be able to enjoy and experience. Exploring this route by motorhome, RV or campervan offers visitors the added luxury and comfort while travelling as well as the convenience of being able to spend each night at a different location.

Blois to Amboise

The road from Blois to Amboise is just less than 35km in length which makes it easy to accomplish in under an hour if you aren’t able to make too many stops. This drive can be enjoyed in three different ways. You can stick to the most direct route via the D952 or you could enjoy the detours that the D45 and D31 offer. Once in Amboise, a drive to Chenonceau will take about 20 minutes and it’s worth travelling the extra distance.

Apart from the pristine views along this drive, you will have an opportunity to visit some amazing historic structures. The castles in this area are famous for their intriguing aesthetic appeal and fascinating history.

Chateau de Chenonceau

The iconic Chateau de Chenonceau was built in the 11th century on the River Cher and enjoyed subsequent modifications until its current design was achieved. The castle and the lovely gardens are open to the public. If you only have time to stop at one such site, make this your choice. Apart from Versailles, it is the second most visited chateau in the entire country.

Chateau de Chambord

If you are partial to French Renaissance architecture, then a visit to the Chateau de Chambord is a must. One of the most notable features of this castle is its double helix staircase which, as rumour would have it, was designed by none other than Leonardo da Vinci.

Other Popular Chateaus

Two other popular castles along this route include the Chateau d’Amboise which overlooks the Loire River and the Chateau de Villandry which has one of the most splendid gardens of all.

Loire wines

The area is known for its fertile soil and moderate climate which makes for ideal wine making conditions. The grapes harvested from here are well-balanced in terms of acidity, fruit and alcohol. After Champagne, this region is the second largest producer of sparkling wine so why not pop a cork or two while you’re here?

Sancerre

The area is filled with various wine routes and quaint towns to visit in this area. If you travel further east to Sancerre, you will have the chance to enjoy some fantastic local bottles and visit the Château d’Ussé in Rigny-Ussé which was the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.

Saumur

If you drive west, you can travel to Chinon and then on to Saumur if you have the time for an extended road trip. The family run Château de Chinon is the perfect spot to enjoy some local red wine and the views of the Vienne valley.

The Musee du Champignon in Saumur is worth a stop if you fancy garlic mushrooms before travelling another hour to Tours or anywhere else you please.