Known as the Garden of France and the Cradle of the French Language, visitors to the Loire Valley will immediately enjoy this special region's natural endowments: enchanting land of vineyards, flowers, and rolling green hills. Upon further exploration, historical sites and monuments will awe and enchant, ranging from indescribable châteaux to cathedrals styled in a variety of architectural forms: Renaissance, medieval, classical, etc. Loire Valley’s cities and towns are truly endearing- where one has the opportunity to discover true charm within the region’s gentle pace of life. 

Any visitor could immediately comprehend why Loire Valley’s towns and villages have served as sought after destinations for some of the world’s most accomplished poets and writers, as well as historical figures. To this day, Joan of Arc is commemorated in the city of Orleans, which she had liberated from the British in 1429. Visiting the richly historical town of Bourges, one may witness the summer’s Illuminated Lights, where buildings and monuments are enlivened with music and light. The town of Amboise, with its white stone houses, is the site of Clos Lucé- which had been the former residence of Leonardo da Vinci.

Mentioning Leonardo da Vinci seems to serve as the perfect introduction to the spectacular Loire Valley châteaux, as it is believed that the plans for the Chateau de Chambord, the largest and the most dramatic chateau of the Loire Valley, complete with 400 rooms and a double, intertwined spiral staircase, were assisted by Leonardo da Vinci. Chateau d’Amboise, where French Renaissance royalty held court, is a wonderful sight, as is the medieval hilltop castle of Chateau de Chaumont. Chateau de Chenonceau is a must see as well, built on the banks of the Cher river and known as the "castle of the six ladies" as for many years, its residents were a succession of powerful noblewomen. 

Whether one chooses to explore the Loire Valley while pedaling on a bicycle, trekking through the natural parks, or simply relaxing within one of the character-rich cities, the essence and substance of Loire is sure to be captured. This lovely region exudes peace and beauty and ensures a genuine repose for each and every traveler.