Tours
Chenonceau, Chambord & Wines: 4-Day Loire Valley Escape with a Small Group
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multi-day tours
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Packages
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05 days
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Small Groups ( 1~8 )
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Relaxed
- Highlights
- Program
- Prices
- Accommodation
- Know before
- Meeting point
Booking options
Highlights
- Historical & Cultural Immersion: Delve into the Loire Valley's rich legacy.
- Unwind in Style: Relax in a comfortable 4-star hotel.
- Skip-the-Line Access: Explore iconic castles with ease - Chambord & Chenonceau Tickets
- Expert-Led Loire Valley Wine Tour: Discover Chinon & Bourgueil with a passionate guide.
Program & Itinerary
Discover the Enchanting Loire Valley: A Transformative Vacation Experience
Embark on a transformative Loire Valley vacation package with our meticulously designed small group tour, tailored for those who seek to immerse themselves in the enchanting landscapes, profound history, and rich cultural tapestry of one of France’s most picturesque regions.
Explore the Heart of France's UNESCO World Heritage Site
Nestled in the heart of France, the Loire Valley is celebrated not only for its architectural marvels and viticultural excellence but also for its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This esteemed recognition is awarded for the area's outstanding cultural landscape, comprising historic cities and villages, grand architectural monuments—the châteaux—and lands cultivated by centuries of human interaction with the Loire River.
Connect with Fellow Enthusiasts
This exclusive adventure invites you to connect with fellow enthusiasts and explore the grandiose châteaux, captivating towns, and verdant vineyards that have established the Loire Valley as an unparalleled destination for connoisseurs of beauty and heritage.
Iconic Châteaux of the Loire Valley
- Château de Chenonceau: Known as the "Ladies' Chateau" due to its lineage of influential female owners, Chenonceau is a beacon of Renaissance elegance.
Spanning the Cher River with its iconic arched bridge, it boasts opulent interiors and enchanting gardens, a testament to the legacy of women like Catherine de' Medici and Diane de Poitiers. - Château de Chambord: The sheer scale and complexity of Château de Chambord command awe. This Renaissance marvel, set within a vast hunting reserve, is the largest chateau in the Loire Valley.
With 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, and a double helix staircase possibly designed by Leonardo da Vinci, Chambord is a showcase of French Renaissance architecture.
The Wines of the Loire Valley
- Chinon: Explore the vineyards of Chinon, renowned for its Cabernet Franc wines. These wines range from light and fresh to full-bodied and age-worthy, capturing the essence of the Loire Valley’s terroir. Tasting sessions provide a story of the land and its dedicated winemakers.
- Bourgueil: The wines of Bourgueil thrive in unique climatic and soil conditions, producing robust Cabernet Franc wines. Guided tastings and vineyard tours offer insights into the region’s wine heritage, showcasing the vibrant and fruity to rich and tannic profiles of Bourgueil wines.
- Vouvray: Discover the diverse wines of Vouvray, famous for its Chenin Blanc. Ranging from dry and sparkling to sweet, these wines highlight the versatility and unique characteristics of the Loire Valley terroir. Visits to Vouvray wineries offer an intimate look at the winemaking process and the rich history of this beloved wine region.
Immerse in the Loire Valley's Charm
Beyond the illustrious châteaux and esteemed vineyards, our journey weaves through the fabric of the Loire Valley's charming towns and breathtaking landscapes.
From the ancient streets of Chinon to the serene beauty of the Loire River, each step enriches your connection to this storied region.
Comfortable and Enriching Travel Experience
Our small group package ensures an intimate and engaging experience. Travel in a cozy minivan, led by an expert driver-guide passionate about unveiling the secrets of the Loire Valley. Stay in comfortable accommodations in the heart of Tours, providing a warm welcome after a day of exploration.
Book Your Loire Valley Adventure Today
Join us to uncover the treasures of the Loire Valley, from the grandiose châteaux to the exquisite wines that capture its soul.
Contact us today to embark on a journey where every moment is a discovery, and every experience is a step closer to the heart of France’s cherished region.
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day 1
Arrival in Tours
Pick up in Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps train station and private transfer to your centrally located hotel. Check in at your hotel and night in Tours.Pick up in Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps train station and private transfer to your centrally located hotel. Check in at your hotel and night in Tours.Read moreRead less -
day 2
Full day tour to Loire Valley Chateaux of Chenonceau & Chambord
Meet your Guide at Tours Tourism Office A Fascinating Tour of two Loire Valley ChateausParticipate in a full day Loire Valley tour departing from either Tours or Amboise. We will pick you up in designated meeting points in either of the two towns. Meet your English speaking driver guide who will...Meet your Guide at Tours Tourism Office
A Fascinating Tour of two Loire Valley Chateaus
Participate in a full day Loire Valley tour departing from either Tours or Amboise. We will pick you up in designated meeting points in either of the two towns. Meet your English speaking driver guide who will go over the itinerary and program of the day. The tour includes the visit of 2 Loire Valley castles: Château de Chambord & Château de Chenonceau.
First Visit Chenonceau Castle
The “Chateau des Dames”, bridge built across the Cher, is famous for the great feminine figures who lived in it (Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici) and for the beauty of its Renaissance gardens.
The original Château dates back to the 13th century but was later torched and rebuilt to be finally taken by King Francis I as a debt. The next most important owner was Diane de Poitiers, mistress of Henri II, who transformed the building and added the arched bridge that spans over the River Cher. After the kings death, the Chateau became the property of Catherine de Medici who expelled Diane de Poitiers.
During her time at the Château as owner, Catherine de Medici spent large amounts of money for renovation and embellishments and was known to house spectacular night time parties. It is here that in 1560, the first ever fireworks took place in France.
After the death of Catherine de Medici, the Château passed into several hands including that of Louise Dupin famous for hosting a literary salon that was attended by some of the most famous figures of the time including Voltaire, Montesquieu, Buffon or Marivaux. Famous philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau was Louise Dupin's secretary and tutored her son.
In more recent history, the castle was bought in 1913 by Henri Menier whose family was famous as chocolate makers and the Chateau de Chenonceau is still in their possession today.
After your arrival at Chenonceau castle, begin your guided tour. Chenonceau is home to an outstanding collection of furniture, tapestries and paintings that included artworks from Rubens, Tintoretto, Van Loo, Murillo, Veronese, Poussin, Van Dyck and many more.
Also, during your tour, you will visit the highlights of the castle including Diane de Poitiers' bedroom, the Green Study, the Gallery and the kitchens.
Free time for lunch
Enjoy some free time for lunch, your guide will recommend restaurants based on your preferences.
Afternoon Guided tour of Chateau Chambord
The Castle of Chambord is considered as one of the most beautiful Chateaux of the Loire Valley. After a short drive of about 1 hour, reach the stunning Château de Chambord. Listed since 1981 as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Chambord is without a doubt one of the most fascinating Loire Valley Castle to visit.
Located in the heart of the Sologne region of France, Chateau de Chambord was the desire of King Francis 1 (François 1er) who ordered the construction in the early 16th century. Built as a hunting lodge, the castle was not designed to be a permanent residence for the King who only stayed within the castle a few weeks every year. The architecture of the Château is a good example of the Italian Renaissance style that was prized at the time and Château de Chambord was in fact built to impress foreign visitors and ambassadors and demonstrate the power of the young king of France.
The Castle is laid out around a central keep that includes for massive bastion towers at each corner. All in all, Chambord is home to more than 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces and 84 staircases. The plan of the castle has for central axis the famous double helix staircase that was presumably inspired by the work of the great genius Leonardo da Vinci. The two helices ascend the three floors without ever meeting, illuminated from above by a sort of light house at the highest point of the chateau. Another highlight of the visit is the ornate roof that makes the Chateau so recognizable. When you reach the top level of the Chateau, you can walk between the towers and admire the enormous attention to detail in the masonry work.
King Francis 1 never actually saw the castle finished and it wasn't until the reign of the King Louis XIV (the Sun King) that the building was actually completed. The shear size of Château de Chambord makes it a difficult place to maintain and after being owned by different persons close to royalty, it is finally preempted by the French State who becomes the sole owner as of 1930.
Upon arrival, follow your guide for a guided walking tour of the Castle. The tour will last around 1 hour and your guide will lead you through the main rooms, will show you the famous double spiral staircase and you take you to the top of the Castle to the terraces where you will have a great view of the surrounding area. After the visit, you will have some free time to discover the Castle of Chambord on your own.
After the visit, we will drop you off in Tours at the end of the day.Read moreRead less -
day 3
Full day Loire Valley Wine Tour in the Chinon wine region
Meet your Guide at Tours Tourism OfficeThis morning, we will come and pick you up at in front of the Tours Tourism office. The Tours tourist office is located in the heart of the city, near the train station. The tourism office is located close to all the hotels located...Meet your Guide at Tours Tourism Office
This morning, we will come and pick you up at in front of the Tours Tourism office. The Tours tourist office is located in the heart of the city, near the train station. The tourism office is located close to all the hotels located in the city center, usually a maximum 10 minutes walking distance.
Meet your English speaking driver/guide - who is an Expert in Loire Valley Wines
Upon arrival at the meeting point, you will be welcomed by your English speaking guide who will be waiting with a sign bearing the name of the tour and with the Ophorus logo on it. Also, all our guides have a nominative badge so that it will be easy for you to recognize them.
Once you have met your guide, he will go over the program and itinerary of the day with you. Then, board your comfortable, air conditioned Mercedes minivan and begin to make your way to the Loire Valley wine producing region.
All our vehicles are equipped with an on board P/A system which means that everyone will hear the guides commentary during driving time, even if you are seated in the back of the van! Also, we have bottled water at your disposal and you can use our free wifi as you travel from one destination to another.
Morning wine tasting tour in the Bourgueil wine region
The Loire Valley is not only famous for its Renaissance castles, but also for its wines. To kickstart the day, this Loire Valley wine tour will first take you to the town of Bourgueil. Indeed, this charming small town is surrounded by vineyards producing wines typical from the region. Here, the diversity of soils gives the wines a delicate and fruity taste. Wines from the Loire Valley can be consumed young or aged depending on the vintage.
Your guide will take you to a traditional winery, where you will learn about wine production from the grape to the bottle. After the tour, you will be able to taste different wines produced by the winery and, if you wish, you will be able to buy your favorite one to bring it back home.
Stop in Chinon for a visit & lunch
After that, this Loire Valley shared tour will take you to Chinon, a picturesque town with preserved medieval half-timbered houses and Renaissance town houses. Chinon is dominated by its castle, which is actually made of three castles. The Chinon castle used to be the residence of Henry II of England. Other historic events taking place in the Chinon castle were the death of Richard the Lionheart, as well as Joan of Arc persuading Charles VII to fight the English invasion of France.
You will have the privilege to visit the town accompanied by your private guide who will tell you about the history of Chinon and its castle in greater details. You will have time to stroll the streets and stop for shopping at any time you want. At lunch time, your guide will indicate the best places to try some local specialties in Chinon.
Afternoon wine tasting tour in the Chinon wine region
Around this area, you will mainly find red wines from different qualities. Head to a winery managed by a lovely French couple who will show the process of wine-making in Chinon in the Loire Valley. While you are there, take some time to fully appreciate the beautiful view over the vineyards around you. You will also have a chance to buy some red Loire Valley wine from the winemaker.
After your visit and tasting, it will be time to head back to Tours where we will drop you off.Read moreRead less -
day 5
Departure transfer
Breakfast at your hotel and return transfer to the train station of Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps.End of our servicesBreakfast at your hotel and return transfer to the train station of Tours or Saint Pierre des Corps.
End of our servicesRead moreRead less
Prices
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4* Hotel Option
From € 855.00-
Base 2 persons in double room sharing
855€ p/p
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Accommodation
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Hotel Océania l'Univers - 4* (or similar)
This stylish hotel is a 3-minute walk from the Jardin de la Préfecture, a 10-minute walk from the fine arts exhibitions at the Musée des ...This stylish hotel is a 3-minute walk from the Jardin de la Préfecture, a 10-minute walk from the fine arts exhibitions at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours, and an 11-minute walk from the Basilique Saint Martin.
The rooms are simple yet sleek, with pale wooden floors. Some add bright floral accents for a chic touch. All have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, and some rooms have whirlpool tubs, pull-out sofas and Nespresso coffeemakers. Room service is available.
A breakfast buffet is offered for an additional fee. There's a bar and classic restaurant that serves traditional French and regional dishes, along with a business center.
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Know before you book
- Intimate Group Experience: Explore the region with a maximum of 8 guests, ensuring personalized attention and a comfortable setting.
- Focus on Adults: This tour is designed for adults aged 18 and over to fully appreciate the historical, cultural, and viticultural significance of the Loire Valley.
- Accessibility: Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- Detailed Itinerary: Upon booking, you'll receive a comprehensive itinerary outlining your daily adventures.
- Language: This tour is conducted entirely in English.
Meeting point
Departure
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